A young dog left outside during one of Kansas City’s most severe snowstorms is now safe, warm, and awaiting adoption thanks to the swift action of a local animal shelter.
The incident occurred in the early hours of January 5, as the city was blanketed by nearly a foot of snow, according to the National Weather Service. An elderly resident, awakened by the sound of persistent barking, discovered the dog confined to a crate on the sidewalk amid the brutal conditions. Unable to bring the animal indoors, he alerted KC Pet Project, a Kansas City animal shelter.
Angelina Bryant, a field supervisor in the shelter’s Animal Services Division, responded to the urgent call. Battling freezing temperatures and icy streets, Bryant reached the dog and was met with an unforgettable sight.
“I could see her shivering, but when she saw me, her tail wagged so hard it shook the crate,” Bryant recalled in a statement shared by the shelter.
Despite the shelter’s gates being frozen shut, Bryant climbed over them and used her personal vehicle to transport the dog to safety.
A Heroic Rescue
The shelter shared details of the rescue on Facebook, commending Bryant for her dedication. “We are essential workers. It doesn’t matter how tired or cold we are — we have to show up,” Bryant said.
Speaking to KCTV 5, Bryant expressed disbelief at the dog’s abandonment. “You don’t know the circumstances or what someone might be going through, but I can’t understand how anyone could leave a dog in those conditions.”
The elderly man who called for help was deeply moved by the rescue, telling Bryant he believed divine intervention had awakened him to save the dog.
A New Beginning
Now estimated to be about a year old, the dog suffered no injuries or frostbite despite the harrowing ordeal. She is currently thriving at the KC Pet Project’s no-kill shelter and spending her days in Bryant’s office. Shelter staff report that she is “living her best life” while awaiting a permanent home.
The shelter sees an uptick in welfare calls during extreme weather events, Bryant noted, adding that it’s a stark reminder of the importance of providing proper care for pets during harsh conditions.
“If your dog must be outside, ensure they have adequate shelter with straw or insulation to protect them from the elements,” Bryant advised.
This resilient pup’s story highlights the vital role animal shelters play in protecting vulnerable pets. Thanks to one man’s call and a shelter worker’s unwavering commitment, this once-abandoned dog now has a second chance at life.
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