A grieving dog who was wandering the streets clutching a teddy bear in her mouth has finally been rescued. German shepherd Nikki broke hearts after being spotted all alone in the pouring rain.
She had been walking the streets for months "struck with grief and loneliness" since her owner passed away. Originally thought to be a male dog, Nikki became known to South Lyon Murphy Lost Animal Recovery, who set out to rescue and rehome her.
One of their rescue workers said on Facebook: "We have a name for him - Nicholas [now Nikki] in honour of a young man who left us too soon. This fella's owner died and he was dumped with his stuffy. Struck with grief and loneliness, he carries that stuffy around everywhere. This is heartbreaking.
"We are heading to Detroit to recover him. Please spread the word, do not feed him. Do not engage him. It will be easier with no movement in the area."
After weeks of trying, another rescue worker from Almost Home Animal Rescue League got in touch to see how she could help.
Charity cofounder, Gail Montgomery told People: "I got some private messages and pictures of this dog carrying her stuffed toy, and it was raining in downtown Detroit. It was gut-wrenching and heartbreaking."
Thankfully, Gail was able to catch Nikki and take her to the vets in in Metro Detroit, Michigan, for a much-needed check up.
She added: "Unfortunately, she's got heartworm disease and other internal problems. They found plastic bags, twigs, and bones in her stomach".
While she undergoes treatment, Nikki has been matched with a foster family, who have vowed to spoil her rotten until a new owner is found.
Speaking in Nikki's voice, a rescue worker from Almost Home said: "Just checking in to let you know I'm with the bestest foster couple ever. One's name is daddy and the other ones name is mummy.
"I was in really rough shape in the beginning. You see I have heartworm disease. I also have a lot of other medical issues but I'm seeing the vet so I can be the best I can be.
"My fosters bought me lots of stuffies and yummy food. I wouldnt eat anything the first couple of days. Mummy cooked me a homemade dinner and I finally ate it all up.
"My whole system inside is pretty messed up. You see I had to eat whatever I could when I was on the road so my stomach wasn’t aching. Some of the stuff I ate wasn’t good for me. So, my whole system has to settle down.
"My stomach was so big they thought I might be pregnant but that was just a bunch of stuff in my stomach.
"I've been to two vets so far and had a lot of tests done. You know when they take a picture of all your organs and stuff? Lots of blood work too."
Commenting on her recovery so far, one user said: "She looks so much better! Thank you so much for saving her from a nightmare of a life! Continue to heal and get rid of those nasty heart worms, Nikki. We love you!"
Another user added: "Sending prayers and tons of love for a quick recovery Nikki."
A third user said: "Love you sweet Nikki. You keep eating good food, get lots of rest and soak up all the love from everyone. Sending you love, hugs and healing prayers."
Both South Lyon Murphy Lost Animal Recovery and Almost Home Animal Rescue League will be issuing updates on her rehoming journey on their Facebook pages.
Do you have a story to share? Email paige.freshwater@reachplc.com.
