When a kind-hearted person found a scared, tiny dog hiding behind a dumpster in a lonely alley in St. Louis, Missouri, they knew she needed help. Stray Rescue of St. Louis quickly responded to the call, eager to lend a hand.

Donna Lochmann and her team arrived at the scene without delay.

As they approached, they spotted the small dog, later named Joan of Bark, desperately trying to remain unseen.

Her body language spoke volumes—she was frightened and seemed to have given up on being saved.

A Fragile Soul in Need

Lochmann slowly approached Joan of Bark and gently offered her some Vienna sausages.

The little dog hesitated at first, unsure of what to do. But the smell of the food overcame her fears, and she began to eat, her tiny body relaxing just a bit.

After a while, Lochmann carefully placed a leash around Joan of Bark’s neck.

The scared dog resisted moving, so her rescuer patiently waited, giving her time to build trust. When Joan of Bark finally attempted to stand, it became clear why she was so afraid to move.

One of her back legs was injured, likely broken. The rescue team’s hearts sank, realizing she had likely been hit by a car and had been left to fend for herself in pain.

With gentle coaxing and a lot of love, Joan of Bark was slowly guided into a crate. The rescuers whispered comforting words to her, letting her know she was now in safe hands.

“It’s okay, sweetheart. You’re safe now,” they reassured her. Stray Rescue of St. Louis shared their encounter with her on Facebook, hoping to gather support and prayers for her recovery.

At the clinic, veterinarians took X-rays of Joan of Bark’s leg.

The clinic staff treated her with kindness, giving her a bath that washed away not only the dirt but also some of her fears.

Despite their best efforts, the injury was too severe and had been left untreated for too long. The only option was to amputate to give her the best chance at a pain-free life. The brave little pup underwent surgery and emerged with a new lease on life.

Post-surgery, Joan of Bark moved to a shelter to continue her recovery.

A New Beginning Filled with Love

After she had fully recovered, Joan of Bark was relocated to a shelter.

For the first time in what must have felt like forever, she was free from pain. Her rescuers showered her with affection, making her feel cherished and secure.

Joan of Bark began to blossom. She showed her playful side, enjoyed every cuddle, and wagged her tail with joy.

Their affection sparked in her hope that someday she would find a family who would love her unconditionally.

Despite losing a leg, she embraced her new life, racing around the yard and playing with boundless energy.

Joan of Bark was soon placed in a loving foster home. At first, she was a bit shy, unsure of what to expect.

But it didn’t take long for her to adjust to her new surroundings. Her foster family treated her like the precious gem she was, providing a warm and loving environment. She quickly formed a bond with her furry foster sister, and they became inseparable, sharing every adventure and nap time.

While Joan of Bark thrived in her foster home, her ultimate dream was to find a forever family who would love her just as much.

The little pup began her search for a home where she could be loved unconditionally.

Though it’s uncertain if her wish has been fulfilled, such a sweet, resilient pup will surely soon capture the heart of a family that will cherish her for life.

In the meantime, Joan of Bark continues to enjoy every day, surrounded by love and friendship, living proof that even the smallest dogs can have the biggest hearts.

She’s no longer the scared pup hiding behind a dumpster—she’s a cuddle bug, ready to share her love with the world.