When Police Officer Michael Pascale first encountered Joey, it was a cold, wet afternoon. He was driving his patrol car through a public park when he noticed a small black dog crouched among used syringes and broken beer bottles.

Officer Pascale noticed the dog was tied to a fence with a chain around his neck. Joey was soaked, shivering, and clearly abandoned.

“He just looked at me with these eyes that said ‘help me,’” Pascale explained to The Dodo. “My first thought was that I needed to get him out of there.”

From Lost and Wet to Safe and Dry

Joey was brought to the Animal Care Centers of NYC shelter in Brooklyn by the animal-loving officer. He could feel a special connection forming between them as he dried the grateful dog off with a towel.

“I don’t see an animal,” Pascale explained. “I see a soul. And that’s not something I avoid.”

He sent a photo of the heartbroken pup to his wife. “Bring him home!” she said immediately. The couple quickly agreed to adopt Joey if they could get over a small hurdle.

72 Hours Feels Like an Eternity

Officer Pascale was informed by the ACC that Joey would have to remain in their custody for a mandatory 72-hour period to verify ownership. No matter how neglected or abused an animal appears, there could be a distraught owner looking for it. The waiting period allows time for their lost or stolen pet to be found and come forward.

Officer Pascale promised to return after a painful goodbye between the two of them. He kept his promise and returned the next day, and the next. They grew closer with each visit.

Eventually, the waiting period was lifted and Pascale was able to adopt Joey. When the paperwork was done, Joey was taken out to say goodbye to Pascale.

Officer Pascale vowed to keep him safe and never let him experience cruelty or abandonment again, as the cheerful dog showered him with kisses. They then returned home to begin their new life together.

A Perfectly Imperfect Ending

Where there was once a hungry, fearful stray, there is now a powerful, valued pet. Joey enjoys roaming around New York with his dad and cuddling on the couch with his mom. Officer Pascale notes that he has become a true darling of his mom.

Joey is a good dog – in fact, his Instagram account is @JoeyGoodDoggo – but he isn’t perfect. He sometimes digs through the trash and still doesn’t like to go outside when it rains, but he’s content. And he’s very loved.

And that’s all any pup really wants.

Please follow and share this story to help these adorable little dogs. Together,