Even with all the rescues Donna Lochmann has conducted over the years, she continues to embrace every call she receives, never giving up on an animal in need.
This determination becomes even more powerful during those harsh weather months. In the summer, it’s the blistering heat, and in winter… well, nobody wants to spend the night out in the snow.
Certainly not pups. That’s why when Donna received a call about a helpless pup freezing outside, she immediately grabbed her gear and her rescue partner to head straight to the scene.
A Rescuer’s Calling
When a neighbor reached out to Donna, telling her about a tiny white pup that had been hopping from porch to porch for weeks in the cold, Donna knew she couldn’t ignore it.
But what she didn’t anticipate was just how difficult capturing this little one would be. Donna and her colleague spent two long hours driving around the neighborhood in the snow, desperately trying to catch this wild pup.
Despite all their efforts, the pup simply didn’t trust them.
Their breakthrough came when they cornered the pup on a porch, narrowing her escape routes.
Even then, as Donna tried to get close, the pup made sure to show just how much she hated being captured, growling fiercely at her.
Thankfully, Donna, being the experienced rescuer she is, knew exactly what to do. She pulled out some delicious treats from her pocket, offering them to the pup as a sign of peace, letting her know they meant no harm.
Safe at Last
After a bit of patience on the porch, Donna was finally able to scoop up the little fighter, using her coat to help keep her calm and carry her to safety.
Spending weeks in the St. Louis snow had taken its toll on the pup. She was cold, wet, and covered in matted fur.
But there was no need to worry. She was headed straight to the Stray Rescue of St. Louis shelter, where a relaxing spa day awaited her.
After a bubbly bath and a well-needed haircut, the pup, now named Joanie January, was practically unrecognizable.
Now, all that was left was to find her a loving foster home, and that came quickly.
A New Beginning
Ally Turner, a kind-hearted foster mom, opened up her warm home to Joanie January. From the very first moment they met, it was clear that this was meant to be.
“This girl is a bit shy/timid but is so sweet! She’s already my little shadow, wanting to be held and following me around. She’s doing some exploring around the apartment, and her introduction to Emmy went well! Emmy was excited to meet her, and Joanie didn’t even mind, haha,” Turner shared in a Facebook post.
Finally, Joanie was safe and sound. No more worrying about the cold or hunger—she now has a cozy couch and a human who absolutely adores her.
We can’t wait to watch her transformation unfold!