All dogs long for love and the warmth of snuggling with their parents—it’s their idea of true happiness.
Sadly, many pups are abandoned and deprived of the love they deserve. Instead of shining with joy, their eyes reflect the sadness in their hearts.
Explorer’s eyes reflected his pain and sorrow after being tied to a crate and abandoned in a park.
The sweet pup was left bewildered, his gaze fixed on the ground, his face filled with dejection.
A Heartbreaking Scene

Source: Tiffany Maki via The Dodo
As Tiffany Maki, a former dog rescuer, prepared to leave the park with her pups, she spotted a small dog sitting in the grass near the entrance.
Noticing he was alone and tied to a folded crate, a wave of sadness washed over her.
Since he hadn’t been there when she arrived, Maki realized the poor pup had been abandoned while she and her dogs were playing.
The pup, later named Explorer, was visibly distrustful, barking nervously at passersby.
As an experienced rescuer, Maki understood that fear, not aggression, fueled his reaction.
He was just a sad and confused little dog, struggling to make sense of what had happened to him.

Source: Tiffany Maki via The Dodo
The frightened pup acted defensively, trying to protect himself in an unfamiliar situation.
“As I walked closer, he would bark and lunge at me to keep me at a distance. I knew most people wouldn’t have tried to approach him, afraid he might bite,” Maki told The Dodo.
Determined to help, she made up her mind to earn his trust.
She remained by his side, speaking to him softly until she finally gained his trust.
Realizing that Maki meant no harm, Explorer allowed her to gently slip a leash over his neck, accepting the help he so desperately needed.
Explorer’s Luck Changes

Source: Tiffany Maki via The Dodo
Maki brought him home, overjoyed to see him transform into a loving and affectionate pup.
Explorer welcomed her gentle touch, his eyes shining with hope and gratitude as he soaked in every bit of affection.
“After getting home, [he] was the SWEETEST dog and SO well trained,” Maki shared. “He was crate and potty trained, [and] he knew how to sit, shake, lay down, roll over, beg, and heel. Someone loved him at some point.”

Source: Tiffany Maki via The Dodo
Maki contacted local rescuers and successfully secured a spot for Explorer at Schnauzer Rescue of Texas in Houston.
After spending the night in Maki’s home, Explorer was taken to the rescue’s vet, where he received his vaccinations.
He then moved to a foster home in Woodlands, Texas, where he was showered with love and care.
Before long, the sweet pup found a wonderful family eager to welcome him with open arms.
Now, Explorer is safe and happy in his forever home, savoring every bit of love and affection from his new family.