On a cold and rainy day, New York Police Officer Michael Pascale became a true hero when he was found with a small black dog named Joey. While patrolling the public park in his patrol car, he was able to ignore the sight of Joey lying among discarded needles and beer bottles.

Joey was in a desperate situation, tied to the fence with a strong chain around him, soaked by the rain, shivering, and clearly dejected. The pitiful look in Joey’s eyes struck a chord with Officer Pascale, and he knew he had to act.

“The first thing that occurred to me was that I had to get him out of there,” Pascale shared with The Dodo. What followed was a heartwarming adoption story that would change both of their lives forever.

Officer Pascale didn’t waste any time. She took Joey to the Animal Care Centers of NYC shelter in Brooklyn, and as she toweled the grateful pup dry, a special bond began to form between them. To Pascale, Joey was just an animal; she saw a pup in need.

“I don’t see any animals,” Pascale stressed. “I notice it so much. And that’s not something I wanted.” He texted a photo of the dead pup to his wife, who replied: “Bring him home!” The couple was ready to adopt Joey, with only the road blocking them.

Animal Care Centers informed Officer Pascale that Joey had to undergo a 72-hour pretrial detention. This waiting period ensures that only adopted or bullied animals have the opportunity to reciprocate for their losses. Despite their excitement about adopting Joey, Pascale and his wife understood the importance of this waiting period.

During those long 72 hours, Officer Pascale visited Joey every day, forming an even stronger bond with the sweet dog. Finally, when she took control of the strays, Pascale kept her promise to Joey, adopting him and promising to protect him from infidelity and abandonment.

Joey’s transition from a cold, wet stray to a beloved member of the entire family showered Pascale with kisses of gratitude. She will be returning home to begin the next chapter of their life together.

Today, Joey enjoys exploring New York City with his dad and cuddling on the couch with his mom. Officer Pascale notes that Joey has become a true “mama’s boy.” While Joey may be perfect (he sometimes gets stuck in the treasure and still doesn’t like going out in the rain), he is happy and loved.

In the end, all Joey really wanted was a home: love, and thanks to Officer Pascale’s compassion, he found that and more. Joey’s heartwarming journey reminds you of the magical bond that can form between humans and animals and the transformative power of kindness and respect.