On a cold and rainy day, New York City police officer Michael Pascale became a hero in a broader sense than when he became a…
On a cold and rainy day, New York City police officer Michael Pascale became a true hero when he was found with a little black dog named Joey. As he patrolled the public park in his patrol car, he was able to ignore the sight of Joey lying among discarded needles and beer bottles.
Joey was in a desperate situation, tied to the fence with a strong chain, soaked by the rain, shivering and clearly dejected. The pitiful look in Joey’s eyes struck a chord with Officer Pascale, and he knew he had to act.
“The first thing that occurred to me was that I had to get him out of there,” Pascale shared with The Dodo. What followed was a heartwarming adoption story that would change both of their lives forever.
Officer Pascale didn’t waste any time. She took Joey to the Animal Care Centers of NYC shelter in Brooklyn, and as she dried the grateful pup with a towel, a special bond began to form between them. To Pascale, Joey was just an animal; she saw a man in need.
“I don’t see any animals,” Pascale stressed. “I notice them. And that’s not something I care about.” He texted a photo of the dead pup to his wife, who replied: “Take him home!” The couple was ready to adopt Joey, with only the road blocking them.
Animal Care Centers informed Officer Pascale that Joey had to undergo a 72-hour hold. This waiting period ensures that only adopted or bullied animals have the opportunity to make up for their losses. Despite their excitement about adopting Joey, Pascale and his wife understood the importance of this waiting period.
During those long 72 hours, Officer Pascale visited Joey every day, forging an even stronger bond with the sweet dog. Eventually, when she took control of the strays, Pascale kept her promise to Joey, adopting him and promising to protect him from infidelity and abandonment.
Joey’s transition from a cold, wet stray to a beloved member of the entire family brought kisses of gratitude to Pascale. He will be returning home to begin the next chapter of their life together.
Today, Joey enjoys exploring New York City with his dad and cuddling on the couch with his mom. Officer Pascale notes that Joey has become a true “mama’s boy.” While Joey may be perfect (he sometimes gets tangled in the bathroom and still doesn’t like going outside when it’s raining), he is happy and loved.
In the end, all Joey really wanted was a home, love, and thanks to Officer Pascale’s compassion, he found that and more. Joey’s heartwarming journey reminds you of the magical bond that can form between humans and animals and the transformative power of kindness and respect.
