Each police officer bears the obligation and commitment to assist and safeguard the community… particularly the smallest and most defenseless individuals.
On October 5, 2019, officers Mercado and Tavera from the Los Angeles Police Department (Hollywood Division) were on their usual street patrol when they observed something small and incredibly endearing following them.
It was a tiny chocolate puppy meandering through the streets of Los Angeles, longing for someone to rescue him.
As soon as the little puppy saw the two officers, he began trailing them and pleading for assistance.
The officers opted to name the puppy Hobart, after Hobart Blvd. where he was discovered.
Too young and fragile to remain on the streets alone, the officers made the choice to take him back with them to the police station.
The puppy appeared to be smitten with officer Mercado and couldn’t stop shadowing him. It was delightful to witness.
The LAPD Hollywood Division shared an adorable video of little Hobart and officer Mercado on their social platforms, with the caption, “Hobart won’t leave Officer Mercado’s side!! 🥺 #HollywoodHobart”.
Hobart won’t leave Officer Mercado’s side!! 🥺 #HollywoodHobart pic.twitter.com/S5e4rQUZAx
— LAPD Hollywood Division (@LAPDHollywood) October 5, 2019
During the journey back to the station, the little puppy joyfully nestled in officer Tavera’s lap, gazing up at his rescuers with affection.
Little Hobart was immensely thankful for being rescued.
At the police station, Hobart was granted the honorary title of K-9. Instantly, everyone was smitten with this adorable little creature.
However, they recognized that the police station was not the ideal home for this delicate puppy. He required a suitable environment and care.
Thus, they reached out to a local rescue organization known as Ghetto Rescue FFoundation (GRFF), who gladly accepted little Hobart.
He received appropriate medical attention and vaccinations and was intended to be made available for adoption.
Nevertheless, the clip of little Hobart affectionately trailing officer Mercado had gone viral, with many suggesting that Mercado should adopt this little fellow.
What no one was aware of at that time was that as soon as officer Alejandro Mercado shared a picture of Hobart with his wife, Quincy Hutchison, she instantly fell in love and expressed her wish to adopt the puppy.
Therefore, a few days later, the LAPD Hollywood Division disseminated a long-awaited update on Hobart.
The announcement stated, “Many of you have been inquiring about what Hobart is doing these days… you’ll be pleased to hear Officer Mercado has adopted him, and he is now living the wonderful life with Mercado and his family!”
Everyone was thrilled with the resolution of this rescue story. One individual remarked, “These two are unmistakably destined to be together! Congratulations on your new home, Hobart!”
A few months later, Ghetto Rescue FFoundation shared an update on Hobart stating, “He has integrated wonderfully and is a total joy to our whole family.”
The home is filled with rescue dogs, including a police K-9, so little Hobart was undoubtedly in the right place.
Little Hobart certainly grew into his ears, and he appears just as lovable as ever.
“Update on Hobart (GRFF name Fidzgit), he’s the most affectionate and energetic pup. He adores all of his puppy cousins and will play with his toys for hours. He’s still mastering potty training and enjoys outdoors/free time in the grass!”
I’m confident that Hobart is relishing every moment with Mercado and his family. It was truly meant to be.
GRFF expressed, “Looks like he struck gold that day when he was ‘apprehended’ for loitering and being excessively adorable,” and we couldn’t agree more.
You can keep up with little Hobart’s escapades at the Mercado home through his official Instagram account, @lapd_hobart.
