The cruelty exhibited by humans far surpasses the natural instincts of dogs to bark, growl, or bite when they feel threatened. Unfortunately, many people intentionally harm these innocent animals simply because they can. It is heartbreaking to think that not only do some individuals abandon their family pets, but they also go as far as leaving puppies in bags without any essentials like food, water, or air. Louie’s story is a tragic one, as he was not only abandoned by his family but also thrown off a bridge with his mouth taped shut, preventing him from calling out for help. Bob Hoelter, a resident of Griffith, Indiana, usually drives to the nearby supermarket, but on that fateful night, he decided to take a walk instead. Little did he know that this decision would lead to a life-changing encounter with Louie. When Hoelter heard the sound of crying coming from a distance as he stood on the bridge, his casual evening stroll turned into a rescue mission. Despite the option to ignore the cries, something compelled him to help – a feeling that originated deep within his heart.
In an interview with The Dodo, he shared how he heard a child’s desperate cries for help and followed them to a bridge where he found the dog in distress. It was dark, but luckily he had a flashlight to help locate the scared pup. After a while, he found the puppy huddled on the cold ground, shaking with fear. To his horror, the dog had electrical tape stuck to its lips, causing further discomfort. Realizing the urgency of the situation, Hoelter wasted no time and rushed the dog to Griffith Animal Hospital. Dr. Lori Kovacich of the hospital quickly sprang into action to save the dog from a potentially fatal outcome. She recalled, “I didn’t hesitate for a second to bring him in for treatment.” This kind stranger’s quick thinking and compassionate actions saved the dog from a grim fate.
Kovachich quickly understood the seriousness of the situation and decided to take the puppy with her without hesitation, not bothering to ask the man for his name or contact information. She was shocked and saddened to see the poor little puppy in such a terrible condition, his muzzle skin severely damaged by the tape that had been stuck to him for days as suspected by the veterinarians. In order to give the puppy the proper care he needed, Kovachich assembled a team of vets and technicians. They provided him with medications for his internal inflammations and ointment for his damaged muzzle. Additionally, the puppy was given several stuffed animals and a cozy blanket to help him rest and recuperate.
Once the dog had received the necessary care, Kovachich felt a pang of regret for not getting the name of the person who had brought the dog in. Hoelter, on the other hand, was simply relieved that he had managed to get the dog to the hospital in time and went on with his walk to the store without a second thought. A New Day, A New Turn Initially, it seemed like everything was going smoothly after the first assessment, but further tests revealed that the pup also had a broken leg. Surgery was the only option due to the neglect the dog had suffered. Given the dog’s injuries and the circumstances of being found under a bridge, hospital staff suspected that he had been thrown from it and had most likely hit the ground rather than the water. Despite the odds, the puppy miraculously survived, albeit with severe injuries.
Dr. Kovachich was deeply disturbed by the heartbreaking ordeal the little pup had gone through. Taking to Facebook on behalf of the hospital, she expressed her shock and sorrow at the injustice, stating that those responsible would face their comeuppance. She believed they lacked empathy and were leading miserable lives, destined for karma to catch up with them. As Louie, as he was later named, continued to recover, his playful nature began to shine through at the hospital, winning over the hearts of everyone there. Social media posts by Griffith Hospital played a crucial role in finding Louie’s rescuer and a loving forever home for him. When Hoelter’s niece came across one of the posts and shared it with her uncle, they decided to visit the hospital to check on Louie before he started his new life with his adoptive family.
Everyone at the hospital was surprised by Louie’s reaction when he saw Hoelter, his savior. Hoelter himself was amazed because he didn’t think Louie would remember him. However, it was clear that Louie did remember him as he rushed towards Hoelter, showering him with hugs and affection. This heartwarming moment led to Louie finally finding his forever home. Mary and Doug Witting, who had been patients at the hospital for years, weren’t planning on getting a new dog after losing their beloved family pet. But there was something special about Louie that they just couldn’t resist.
The Wittings were the ones who affectionately named their dog “Louie” and welcomed him into a loving home full of care and attention. Mary expressed her feelings by saying, “When I saw his adorable face, I knew he needed me. I can shower him with love all day long, and I need him just as much.” For those who truly love dogs, it is incomprehensible how anyone could abandon or harm such a sweet and innocent creature. Thank goodness for individuals like Bob Hoelter, Dr. Lena Kovachich, and the Wittings, who are always ready to help in healing both physical and emotional wounds.
