“This is what all of our hearts need” 💕
A New Year’s Emergency Call
Just hours after the New Year began, celebrations came to an abrupt stop for the team at Stray Rescue of St. Louis (SRSL). Police had called with devastating news: a gray-and-white pit bull had been found standing in the street, badly injured and covered in blood. It quickly became clear that the dog had been shot.
“This is absolutely not how we wanted to start the New Year,” SRSL shared on Facebook.
Rushed to Safety
Officers immediately transported the injured dog to SRSL’s on-site animal hospital. Once there, veterinarians sedated him to fully assess his condition — and the findings were heartbreaking.
“He had been shot multiple times,” the rescue confirmed.
Despite his injuries, the dog — soon named Wallace — showed remarkable strength. Even after everything he’d endured, he had been found standing upright, refusing to give up.
Comfort During the Hardest Moments
Wallace’s caregivers stayed close through every step of his treatment. When he began waking from anesthesia, one staff member made sure he wasn’t alone.
“When Wallace woke up, Julia was right there, gently petting him so he wouldn’t be scared,” SRSL wrote. “We’ve got you, brave boy.”
Surgery, Healing and a Fresh Start
Fortunately, none of the bullets had shattered Wallace’s bones. Veterinarians were able to safely remove the bullets along with a severely damaged tooth. Just two days after arriving, Wallace successfully underwent surgery.
Once stable, he received a warm bath — a small but meaningful step toward leaving his trauma behind.
A Joyful Reunion
On January 5, Wallace experienced an emotional surprise. The police officers who had saved him, Officer Ottengheime and Officer Stevens, returned to check on him.
The moment Wallace saw them, his joy was impossible to contain.
“He covered them in about a million thankful kisses,” SRSL wrote. “Our hearts absolutely burst.”
Finding His Forever Family
Wallace’s incredible story spread quickly, touching people across the community. In less than 10 days, a loving couple stepped forward, ready to adopt him. Though Wallace still needed time to heal, they promised to wait and began visiting him regularly.
During one visit, Wallace climbed straight into their laps, showering them with affection as shelter staff looked on through tears.
“This is what our hearts need,” SRSL shared. “Knowing he’s going to be deeply loved.”
A Happy Ending — and a Hopeful Reminder
Wallace is now nearly ready to head home for good, and everyone at SRSL couldn’t be happier for him. While his journey has a joyful ending, the rescue hopes his story shines a light on the many other animals still waiting for families.
“Our shelter is full of sweet souls just like Wallace,” SRSL wrote. “They all deserve the same chance.”
Wallace’s survival is a testament to compassion, quick action and the power of second chances.