Homeless man’s cardboard sign inspires this animal rescuer to take action

While exiting a Huntsville, Texas Walmart, a woman named Wilma Price – who happens to be the co-founder of the rescue, Mr. K’s Pet Shelter – saw a homeless man sitting by the side of the road. He was holding up a cardboard sign and what it said forced Wilma to do a double take.

“Dog In Pound. Please Help.” Wilma had seen dozens of signs since the economy crashed in 2009, but none like this.

She stopped her car – ignoring the angry honks from the drivers around her – and approached the man. His name was Patrick and he was only 30 years old. He explained to Wilma that he had been arrested for trespassing and his little dog, Fred had been taken into custody in his absence.

Patrick was desperately trying to raise the $120 needed to get his companion back. Wilma did not have the funds to help Patrick right away, but she contacted the shelter who confirmed his story. The $120 was for Fred’s impoundment fee, mandatory Rabies shot and a heartworm test (Fred tested negative).

Wilma then contacted a frequent donor to her rescue who agreed to put up the money. In the meantime, Wilma returned to the Walmart to get to know Patrick better. They discussed how he had come to be on the streets and his anxiety about getting Fred back again.

Wilma could see that Patrick truly loved his dog. Not only by the way he spoke about Fred, but also the fact that among his meager possessions were dog bowls and several toys. Patrick only had a backpack to his name, but he made sure to reserve space for Fred’s things.

Together Wilma and Patrick arrived at the shelter to pay for Fred’s release. Patrick was given paperwork showing that Fred was heartworm negative and current on his Rabies vaccine. And then it was time for the reunion.

Video: Animal Rescue Helps Dog Allegedly Used for Fighting Then Dumped

Fred shook all over in excitement as he leapt back into his owner’s arms. Patrick wept with relief and gratitude as he embraced the friend he feared he’d never see again. He tried to give Wilma the few dollars he had to his name as partial payment for her kind deed, but of course, Wilma refused.

Video: Dog Collection Boys Capture A Hundred Homeless Dogs Ep 3 Operation Punta Cana

Patrick assured her that the money would go towards dinner for Fred – and if anything was left over, for himself. Wilma longed to do more for the pair – perhaps put them up in a motel for a week to regroup – but she simply did not have the money. She wept as she dropped Patrick and Fred back at the Walmart.

Video: RESCUE INK IN ACTION OF SAVING THE PITBULLS!

Wilma shared her story via her Facebook page with the following advice:

“We’ve all been in a bad situation in our life so remember always pay it forward. You never know who that person might be that you help…”

Since then, dozens of supporters have stepped up, offering donations to help Patrick and Fred get back on their feet. Thank you Wilma, Mr. K’s Pet Shelter and everyone who has provided support and donations to help this lovely pair make a fresh start.

Reviews & Comments