Left behind in the South Carolina woods by a breeder who abandoned him and several other dogs, Parker had nowhere safe to turn. Unsure of where to go or whom to trust, the curly brown-and-white pup found a soft pile of pine needles and made it his bed.
For days, rescuers searched, but Parker kept his distance — too scared to believe humans might help. Finally, animal control officers were able to safely trap him and bring him to Halfway There Rescue, where a foster family was waiting to give him the gentle care he needed.
When Parker first arrived at his foster home, his fear was obvious.
“At first, he was terrified of everything,” his foster mom, Carrie, told The Dodo.
Carrie knew it would take patience and kindness to help Parker heal. She gave him space to adjust, letting him move at his own pace. Slowly, her other dogs began to work their magic.
“Gradually, he’s warmed up to the other dogs,” Carrie said. “I have a rescue husky-pit mix, Malala, who is a saint and often helps crack scared dogs out of their shell. They now play nonstop in the backyard and around the house.”
With his new canine siblings showing him the ropes, Parker began to rediscover what it meant to be a dog.
“He’s a goofy, friendly, carefree dog when he’s outside with the other dogs,” Carrie said. “He plays chase and wrestles, and digs a lot in the dirt.”
Though Parker is still learning to trust people, his progress has been remarkable. Day by day, he’s building confidence and beginning to show his true self.
When the right family comes along — one with patience and understanding — Parker will finally get his happily-ever-after.
Once abandoned and alone, Parker now has a second chance. With love and time, he’s learning that life doesn’t have to be scary — it can be safe, joyful, and full of play.
To support more dogs like Parker, consider donating to Halfway There Rescue.
