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Occasionally, the most wonderful events transpire when you least anticipate them, transforming sadness into happiness in an instant. This was precisely the case for Shelby Davis, the director of Soul Dog Rescue, based in Fort Lupton, Colorado.
At 11 p.m., Shelby found herself far from her home city with no accommodations for the night. Unbeknownst to her, there was a tiny being in a random parking lot that required assistance more than she did.
Fortunately, Shelby instantly recognized what action to take.
A Pawsitive Surprise
![Wounded Stray Dog Finds Love and Healing in Foster Care 2 Stray little puppy](https://thehomeofash-media.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/01105121/Stray-little-puppie.jpg)
On that day, Shelby Davis drove nearly 10 hours from Denver, her hometown, to Arizona for a professional engagement; however, she was unaware that her hotel’s check-in period concluded at 8:30 p.m.
Upon arriving at 11 p.m., she realized there was no option to stay the night there. As Davis began to circle the parking lot, pondering her next steps, she noticed two sorrowful eyes gazing at her.
Having considerable experience with stray dogs, Davis instantly recognized that those expressive eyes belonged to an animal in need.
Swiftly, she scooped the dog into her arms, placed him in a crate in the van, and offered him some food.
The small pup – later named Braydon – appeared significantly ill.
He was malnourished, affected by wounds, his coat was patchy due to severe mange, and he suffered from a tick-transmitted illness.
![Wounded Stray Dog Finds Love and Healing in Foster Care 4 Stray dog with infections](https://thehomeofash-media.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/01105122/Stray-dog-with-infections.jpg)
Once he was nourished and sheltered in Davis’ van, he entirely relaxed and became affectionate. “He was very pleased to be off the streets,” Molly Steele, the current foster mom of the pup, shared with The Dodo.
Davis drove back to Denver throughout the night, and the following morning, she took Braydon to the veterinarian for much-needed care.
From Stray To Family
![Wounded Stray Dog Finds Love and Healing in Foster Care 6 Dog laying on the carpet](https://thehomeofash-media.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/01105122/Dog-laying-on-the-carpet.jpg)
Volunteer at Soul Dog Rescue, Molly Steele, fell head over heels for Braydon upon first sight and felt compelled to foster him.
Upon meeting his new foster family, it was an instant connection.
“Braydon instantly cherished being with his new foster family. He couldn’t stop showering us with hugs and kisses. It was as if he already recognized us,” Steele remarked to The Dodo.
Braydon’s emotional reaction to finally having a family and a cozy bed was heartwarming. He was relentless with his hugs and kisses. “I don’t believe he had ever rested on something so plush,” Steele expressed.
As he regained his health, his personality began to flourish.
“He adores showering kisses, snuggling on the couch, playing with his toys, and frolicking with our other dogs. He is fond of any visitor that comes by,” Steele noted on her Facebook.
Once Braydon is fully rehabilitated, he will be prepared for adoption.
“He is sure to be an amazing addition to someone’s home. If I didn’t already have three dogs, he would absolutely remain here ❤️🐾🐶,” Steele commented.
If you are interested in adopting Braydon or supporting pups like him, head to Soul Dog Rescue for additional details.
![Wounded Stray Dog Finds Love and Healing in Foster Care 8 Dog sleeping on the sofa](https://thehomeofash-media.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/01105123/Dog-sleeping-on-the-sofa.jpg)
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