Raymond: The Dog Who Waited and Finally Found Hope
Raymond likely thought he was going for a walk when he was brought to a hiking trail in Michigan earlier this month. But instead of an adventure, he was abandoned. Left alone, he watched as the people he trusted drove away, leaving him behind.
For five long days, Raymond stayed in the same spot — a pile of wood chips overlooking the parking lot — faithfully waiting for his family to return. Hikers began noticing the lonely dog, but he was too scared to let anyone come close. Every time someone approached, he’d vanish into the woods, only to return quietly to his watch post.
One concerned woman, unable to rescue Raymond herself, contacted The KG Foundation for help. Founder Jordan Covington arrived expecting a challenging rescue. But when she offered food, something changed — Raymond walked right up to her. Exhausted, starving, and heartbroken, he finally gave in.
After confirming no one was searching for him, Raymond was brought to A ReJoyceful Animal Rescue, supported by the foundation. There, for the first time, he wagged his tail when he saw another dog — a small but powerful sign of hope.
Shortly after, Raymond fell ill with pneumonia and was rushed to the vet for oxygen treatment. Thanks to quick action, he pulled through and is now recovering.
In just days, Raymond experienced another first: picking up a toy and playing with it.
“He’s showing bravery with strangers and wagging his tail a lot,” Covington shared. “He’s finally coming out of his shell.”
Raymond is now looking for a foster home, and once fully healed, he’ll be ready for adoption. Covington believes he’s a gentle, sensitive soul — and that anyone who meets him will fall in love.