In a heart-wrenching turn of events, a senior schnauzer-poodle mix named Oreo found himself abandoned on a sweltering Virginia street corner, tethered to a pole by his leash. His confusion and distress was obvious, but thankfully, a compassionate passerby alerted Richmond Animal Care and Control (RACC) to the poor dog needing rescue.
Director Christie Chipps Peters expressed gratitude to the stranger. “We’re grateful someone saw him and called us, so he didn’t have to stay tied to a pole for a day and a half,” Peters said. Upon arrival, officers discovered more than just a lost dog.
The note that was left with Oreo. Photo courtesy of Richmond Animal Care and Control
Tied to Oreo’s collar was a small cardboard sign, bearing a poignant message handwritten in black Sharpie: “My name is Oreo. I’m over 10 years old. I have anxiety. My owner died. I’m really good. I need a home.” These words spoke volumes, highlighting Oreo’s vulnerability and the tragedy of his situation. Despite the efforts of RACC staff to provide comfort and care, Oreo’s adjustment to shelter life was challenging. Hindered by old age, diminishing sight, and hearing loss, the senior pup struggled to get used to his new surroundings.
Peters, who had been keeping an eye on Oreo’s demeanor, said “He’s been nervous the whole time, really.”
When they were finally able to put Oreo up for adoption, shelter staff used social media to find him a new home. Linda Snyder, a compassionate pet lover from northern Virginia, said she felt an inexplicable connection to Oreo and welcomed him into her home. Peters recounted Snyder’s sentiment, “There was just something special about this dog that made her want to open [her] home to him.”
Following a successful meet-and-greet with Snyder and his new canine companion, Ollie, Oreo embarked on a journey to his forever home. Though he couldn’t see it, the warmth and security of his new surroundings were unmistakable.As Oreo settles into his new life, his tale serves as a reminder of the power of compassion. Reflecting on the journey, Linda Snyder shared, “If he can spend the rest of his golden years walking around her 5 acres in Fredericksburg it will be the best.” In a world often fraught with challenges, Oreo’s story stands as a testament to resilience and the enduring bond between humans and animals.
Oreo with his new owner. Photo courtesy of Richmond Animal Care and Control
The shelter also wanted to make sure that Oreo’s original owner’s family saw that the dog was OK. They released a statement addressed to them. “We see your love in the bag you carefully packed with all of her favorite things. We see your love in the way you secured her leash so she wouldn’t get hit by a car. We see your love in the way you placed her in the middle of a neighborhood where she’d be quickly found. “We see your love in how happy and healthy Baby Girl looks.”
In the midst of heartbreaking circumstances, Oreo’s journey from abandonment to adoption offers a glimmer of hope, inspiring others to make a difference in the lives of animals in need. Watch below for a look at what you can do if you find yourself in the same situation and need to know what to do.
