No one knew exactly what had happened to Pretzel. She looked like a stray, wandering the streets of Michigan, lost and alone.
Her past was a mystery—no one knew where she came from or what she had been through. All they could see was a young pup who was barely holding on, completely shut down and defeated.
She was dangerously malnourished, and it was clear she couldn’t survive much longer without help.
Thankfully, the compassionate team at Rebel Dogs Detroit spotted Pretzel just in time. Her condition broke their hearts, and they knew they had to act fast. There was no hesitation.
Was there still hope for Pretzel?
As the rescuers approached Pretzel, they noticed he was hunched over something on the road. To their heartbreak, they realized he was trying to eat a bird that had already passed away.
This poor pup was so desperately hungry, he had no choice but to survive any way he could. His rescuers were stunned by the condition he was in.
They weren’t sure how he would react—most stray dogs are fearful and hesitant around humans. But Pretzel surprised them.
Instead of running, he stayed put. And when they opened the car door, he didn’t hesitate for a second. He climbed in all on his own.
That’s how desperate Pretzel was for a second chance.
It was truly heartbreaking to realize just how much Pretzel had been suffering. No dog should ever have to endure such pain and neglect.
Although he didn’t run from his rescuers, Pretzel was still wary. When they reached out to pet him, he didn’t seem thrilled—there was a hesitance in his eyes.
His quiet, guarded demeanor made them suspect he may have suffered abuse in the past. So, they responded with kindness and gentle affection—and little by little, Pretzel began to relax.
Eventually, he melted into his rescuer’s arms, finally feeling a sense of safety. That tender moment gave them the chance to look him over, and what they found was alarming—he had multiple injuries that needed urgent care.
Now, Pretzel needs a foster home—and he needs it fast.
When rescuers brought Pretzel to a veterinarian in Michigan, they were surprised to discover he had a microchip. But their hope of finding his family quickly faded—the chip wasn’t registered, leaving no clues about his past.
It was clear Pretzel had belonged to someone at some point, but why he was abandoned remained a heartbreaking mystery.
Still, the rescuers didn’t dwell on the past. Their focus was on helping him heal. They immediately started him on a treatment plan to address his injuries and get him on the road to recovery.
But with the shelter already stretched beyond capacity, it became clear—Pretzel couldn’t stay there for long. What he needed now more than anything was a loving foster home.
After everything Pretzel has endured, he deserves so much more than a small kennel and a loud, crowded room. What he truly needs is peace, comfort, and the gentle love of people who will treat him with the kindness he’s always deserved.
His rescuers are doing everything they can to find the perfect foster home for him. Until that day comes, he’ll remain safely in their care.
The good news is, Pretzel is making amazing progress. He’s steadily gaining weight, and his treatment is starting to show real results. There’s no doubt—this brave pup is on the path to recovery.
Here’s hoping Pretzel’s story has a beautiful, happy ending. He certainly deserves one.