When a 5.2-magnitude earthquake struck Southern California last month, most people rushed to find safety. But one little dog in Los Angeles faced the tremors alone.
At the end of a quiet cul-de-sac behind a school, a shaggy stray lay trembling — not just from the quake, but from fear and abandonment. Hours later, someone finally spotted him and reached out for help.
By the time rescuers arrived, the pup was still frozen in place, covered in sticks and visibly shaking.
“He was just lying there — shaking, scared, with debris tangled in his fur,” wrote Suzette Hall, founder of Logan’s Legacy 29.
Hall and her rescue partner, Mary Nakiso, rushed to the scene the moment they heard about the dog, who would later be named Royce.
Nakiso got there first — and found something heartbreaking beside him: a small pile of food and water, left behind by someone who had spotted him but chose not to help.
“She was crushed,” Hall wrote. “Someone saw he needed help, but just walked away.”
Nakiso stayed with Royce, gently reassuring him that help had finally arrived.
When Hall pulled up, the two women carefully blocked off escape routes with whatever they could find — trash cans, fences, anything to prevent the frightened dog from bolting.
But as they moved closer, something unexpected happened.
“He didn’t try to run,” Hall said. “I slipped the lead around his neck, and he didn’t even flinch. He was just relieved.”
Hall scooped Royce into her arms and took him straight to Camino Pet Hospital. There, he was given a full medical exam and a warm, much-needed bath. Thankfully, Royce was in good health — just in desperate need of grooming and rest.
Veterinary staff carefully shaved away Royce’s thick, matted fur, freeing him from the tangled mess that had weighed him down. As each mat came off, Royce’s personality began to shine. He greeted everyone with a grateful grin.
Next, Royce went into foster care, where he could finally relax in a safe and loving home. He’s still waiting for his forever family, but his transformation has already been incredible.
“Royce is still smiling today,” Hall told The Dodo. “He knows he’s safe now.”
To support rescues like Royce, consider donating to Logan’s Legacy 29. If you’re interested in giving Royce his forever home, email Suzette Hall at [email protected].
