Alone and visibly anxious, the dog caught the attention of several shoppers who, after some effort, managed to calm and secure her.
Attached to her collar was a small rope holding a plastic bag. Inside was a handwritten note that read: “My name is Rukey. Please help me, take me home.”
Animal shelter steps in
Realising she had likely been abandoned, the group took Rukey to the Kent County Animal Shelter. Staff at the shelter were moved by her situation. Angela Hollinshead, shelter director, said that while abandoned animals are not uncommon, the message left with Rukey made her case especially poignant.
Despite initial shyness, Rukey quickly settled in and showed a gentle and affectionate nature.
New home, new beginning
Shelter volunteers shared Rukey’s story online in the hope of finding her a new home. Their message also extended compassion to her former owner, acknowledging the emotional difficulty of giving up a pet while assuring them that Rukey was now safe.
After being spayed and given a clean bill of health, Rukey was ready for adoption. Soon after, a local family visited the shelter and decided to give her a permanent home.
The shelter later announced the news on social media, encouraging people to “always choose kindness” and reminding the public of the transformative power of compassion.
