Joy Bird’s Second Chance: From Roadside Rescue to Healing Heart
On a quiet afternoon in St. Louis, Missouri, police officers came across a heartbreaking sight — a dog who had been hit by a car lay helpless on the side of the road. Despite her pain, the sweet pit bull mix looked around anxiously, searching for someone who would care enough to stop. Relief washed over her the moment the officers slammed on their brakes and rushed to her side.
The officers quickly formed a protective barrier, shielding her from oncoming traffic. As they gently stroked her head, they called Stray Rescue of St. Louis (SRSL) for help. Within minutes, a car full of SRSL volunteers arrived. Their hearts sank when they saw her big, hopeful eyes, but they assured both the officers and the pup — later named Joy Bird — that she would be safe.
Carefully lifted into their vehicle, Joy Bird was rushed to SRSL’s veterinary clinic. A full exam revealed a broken hip — serious, but not life-threatening. With crate rest and surgery, the team felt confident she would recover.
The next morning, she underwent hip surgery, and it was a success. Though she couldn’t use her back legs at first, the team made special accommodations, even pushing her in a stroller so she could enjoy the sunshine. Joy Bird soaked up every moment, grateful for the kindness surrounding her.
In just a few weeks, her strength returned, and she moved into a foster home with a loving family. Though still searching for her forever home, Joy Bird is thriving in foster care, showered with affection every day.
Looking back, the rescue team couldn’t have chosen a more fitting name. Once abandoned on the roadside, Joy Bird now lives up to her name — a true angel who radiates joy wherever she goes.