Rebel Dogs Detroit volunteers had been on their way back to the shelter just one week ago, when they spotted what looked like a small animal dart across Woodward Avenue in Detroit. For those unfamiliar with the area, it is a major thoroughfare that runs from the Detroit River north through downtown and into the suburbs, and is considered the city’s main artery.
The rescuers circled back; at first thinking it was a cat, but as they looped around again, they spotted a tiny dog. As they pulled over to search the area for the dog, the volunteers found his “spot.” It had been a makeshift setup one of the area residents, who felt sorry for the homeless pup, had created for him. There was a wooden board, a rubber tub, bowls and hay to cuddle up for warmth. All that – just feet away from one of Detroit’s busiest roads.
It was clear he had been surviving there a long time; far too long.
For the next seven days, two dedicated volunteers returned daily, and for six of those days, the frightened and untrusting little pooch avoided the humane traps. He was terrified and clever at the same time.
But on day seven, after hours of patience, he finally went in; he was safe.
So how did this little dog end up in such a dangerous area? One of the local residents shared the heartbreaking story. Many months ago, a homeless man used to sleep beside this dog. Then the man disappeared, and this little dog stayed behind. He survived on scraps and kindness from strangers, but mostly he survived alone.
Loyal but alone, he waited for his person to return. No one knew his name. No one came back for him.
Now he is safe, although he is scared, flighty and still not sure what it means to trust anyone. New faces overwhelm him, but he wants to connect, except he’s just not sure.
He’s young, appears dog-friendly, and with patience, we know he will blossom.
But the shelter is not the place for a dog like him.
He needs out ASAP.
We’re calling him Houdini, because if there was ever a dog who could slip through life’s cracks yet still survive, it’s him.
Houdini needs:
• A patient, experienced foster or foster-to-adopt
• A secure home (strict flight-risk protocols required)
• Someone who understands trauma, fear, and healing
• Ideally another stable dog to help him learn
This boy has been alone long enough.
Let’s make sure he never has to be again.
Apply now to foster or foster-to-adopt Houdini:
rebeldogsdetroit.com/becomeafoster
rebeldogsdetroit.com/applytoadopt
Detroit dogs are resilient — but they shouldn’t have to be.
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You guys need to learn to get along!
