When a terrified stray dog wandered the streets of a California neighborhood, the locals knew they had to do something. She was thin, malnourished, and clearly in desperate need of help, but her fear of humans meant that no one could get close enough to help her.
All taken by this poor pup, the community banded together to figure out ways to help. After failing to give her food by hand, the community started to leave out food instead. Slowly, the dog began to eat when no one was around, and with time, she thankfully began to gain weight. However, her overwhelming fear of others still stopped the community from giving her the proper help she needed.
A Soft Spot for Stuffed Toys

Despite their best efforts, the kind neighbors couldn’t lure the scared dog into their arms. They noticed that while she avoided human touch, she adored something else entirely—toys.
One by one, the residents brought her toys, which she would carry around everywhere she went. Her favorite toy seemed to be her constant companion, bringing her a small sense of comfort in a world that still frightened her.
Though they knew she needed more than they could give, the neighbors’ hearts warmed at the sight of her attachment to these stuffed companions.
A Rescue Plan Set in Motion

Realizing they needed professional help, the community reached out to Suzette Hall, a dedicated rescuer known for saving animals across California. When Hall arrived, she was greeted by the sight of the sweet dog clutching one of her toys in her mouth.
It was both heartwarming and heartbreaking to see how the dog had clung to this small comfort. Hall quickly devised a plan to safely capture the dog, setting up a humane trap with food. To everyone’s relief, the scared pup entered the trap willingly as if ready for a better life. After a month of wandering the streets alone, this terrified dog was finally safe.
Betty Boop’s New Beginning

The community had grown attached to the little dog, naming her Betty Boop and gathering to say their goodbyes as she was taken to the safety of a shelter. They made sure to pack all of her beloved toys for the journey, knowing they would bring her comfort in her new environment.
Betty Boop may have been fearful of people, but her love for her toys showed that all she wanted was to not be alone anymore and that she was capable of trusting others with time and lots of love. With her rescuer’s help and the love of her community, Betty Boop was finally safe, snuggled up with her favorite toy, ready to start a new chapter in her life.
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