A Shy Stray Dog, Who Evaded Help for Years, Finally Lets Love In
When Eldad Hagar, the founder of Hope For Paws, and his team received a call about Houdini, a stray pup in desperate need of help, they knew they were in for a challenge.
Houdini had spent two years living at the port in Los Angeles, with people feeding him from afar but unable to get close.
Despite their best efforts, Houdini evaded capture, always staying one step ahead.
Houdini had become a master at hiding in the open space of the port, and even when Animal Control successfully captured him once, he managed to escape.
But Hope For Paws wasn’t ready to give up on this elusive pup.
They were determined to give Houdini the second chance he deserved.
Just like Houdini, this stray dog’s journey was one of fear and mistrust, but with time, patience, and a lot of love, she finally trusted enough to take a chance on rescue.
Her story is a beautiful testament to the resilience of stray dogs, and how, with the right support, they can heal, grow, and find their forever homes.
This heartwarming transformation proves that even the most fearful dogs can learn to trust, given the right environment and care.
It’s a powerful reminder that all rescue dogs, no matter how scared or elusive, can flourish with patience and compassion.
The Ultimate Rescue Mission
The rescue team, composed of four dedicated volunteers, arrived at the port with one goal in mind: rescue Houdini, the elusive stray dog.
They set a trap and waited for him to approach.
However, when Houdini appeared, he cleverly avoided the trap and quickly disappeared.
The team realized they would need a better plan to catch the clever pup.
The next day, Hope For Paws joined forces with Rescue From The Hart, preparing a new strategy to capture Houdini.
This time, a team of seven rescuers set out to the port with temporary fences and soccer nets, hoping to keep the dog from escaping.
But Houdini was faster and more evasive than they anticipated.
When the team spotted him, he darted off, out of sight once again.
After some time, the weather turned and the rescuers had to leave.
But they didn't give up.
On the third day, the team returned, this time with ten rescuers, determined to succeed.
As they entered the port, Houdini appeared once more, almost taunting the team.
The rescuers quickly worked together, securing every possible exit with additional nets and fencing.
There was no escape this time.
Each rescuer spread out to cover all areas, armed with nets, and ready to finally bring Houdini to safety.
A Close Encounter with Houdini
When Houdini appeared, the rescuers sprang into action, ensuring he wouldn't escape again.
Eldad Hagar managed to loop a leash around his neck, but the frightened pup struggled to break free.
Loreta Franco quickly threw a net over him, successfully trapping him.
The team had finally caught Houdini, but now came the important task of showing him that he was safe.
Houdini’s First Touch of Love
The rescuers gently stroked Houdini, comforting him as he trembled in fear.
They invited Mike, the security guard who had cared for Houdini at the port for two years, to come closer.
When Mike stroked the pup’s head, Houdini relaxed.
It was the first time he had felt a kind touch in so long.
They carefully took Houdini to a shelter, and as Hagar gently stroked his belly, Houdini’s fear started to fade.
The pup, who had once been so scared, now buried his face in Hagar’s shirt, finally understanding that he was safe and cared for.
Houdini’s Journey to Love
After a bath, Loreta cradled Houdini in her arms, and the scared pup turned into a sweet lovebug.
He showered her with kisses, finally letting go of his past fears.
The transformation was nothing short of magical.
Houdini moved into a foster home, where he thrived.
His new dog friends and his loving foster family helped him heal, and it wasn’t long before Houdini found his forever home.
His new family fell in love with him immediately, and Houdini was happy to be surrounded by people who adored him.
No longer the frightened dog he once was, Houdini now enjoys the life he deserves: filled with love, safety, and comfort.
He will never feel fear again.
Truc Tran
Animal Lover & Content Specialist
Expertise
Rescue Participant, Meal Planning for Pets, Recipe Development for Pets, Content Editor
Education
TasTAFE, Australia
Kendall College (Australia Branch in Sydney)
HNAAu School (Vietnam, International Joint Training Program
Truc Tran is an animal lover and rescue advocate with 2 cute furry kids. With a background in culinary arts, she uses her skills to create easy pet-friendly recipes and share helpful tips for caring for rescue animals.
At cutiepuppie.com, Truc focuses on showing the joys of adopting rescue pets and helping owners connect with their furry friends. Her passion for dogs and digital storytelling helps inspire readers to build meaningful connections with their furry companions.