Last month, a small, cheerful dog named Ducky wandered into the Lancaster Animal Care Center in California, and it didn’t take long for the staff to fall head over heels for him.
Unlike many dogs who hide or grow nervous in the shelter’s busy environment, Ducky approached every person he met with excitement and trust.
A Stranger Who Stole Everyone’s Heart
“He had this kind of hope in him that you don’t see often,” said Evelyn, a volunteer at the center. “It was like he knew things would be okay, no matter what.”
Ducky’s warmth was immediate. His wagging tail and gentle eyes drew smiles from staff and visitors alike, as though he were trying to remind everyone that joy could exist even in the toughest situations.
But as the team spent more time with him, they noticed something unusual about his tiny paws.
Unusual Paws, Unshakable Spirit
Ducky’s front feet splayed outward in a way that reminded volunteers of a duck’s webbed toes.
Initially, Evelyn assumed the appearance might be a birth trait, but there was also a chance the shape was caused by past confinement in a cramped space. Despite their unusual look, his paws didn’t seem to bother him, and Ducky carried himself with confidence and energy.
He underwent a thorough checkup, including X-rays, but veterinarians couldn’t pinpoint the cause of his unique feet.
The good news was that the doctors confirmed he was completely comfortable and healthy, aside from his extraordinary toes.
The discovery of a microchip brought heartbreak alongside hope. When the shelter called the number on his chip, they learned his previous owners no longer wanted him.
Evelyn was stunned. She couldn’t understand how someone could give up a dog so full of love and life.
“He’s goofy, affectionate, and just wants to be close to people,” Evelyn explained. “It’s hard to see him treated like he didn’t matter.”
A Second Chance Full of Love
When Ducky needed a temporary foster, Evelyn didn’t hesitate. She spent a day taking him on long walks, playing games, and sharing treats.
Ducky responded with trust and joy, snuggling close and soaking up attention like he had never experienced it before. Evelyn couldn’t resist smothering him with love, marveling at how effortlessly he melted into her arms.
@evelyn.garces_ UPDATE: RESCUED 🤍🩶 noah’s body is proof that backyard breeding truly is terrible. that and his terrible crop job. he’s so skinny too 🙁 everything about him just breaks my heart. every dog here is urgent the second they walk through the doors. if you are interested in noah, don’t walk, RUN to go get him!! he’s only 24 teeny tiny lbs and 2 years old. A5734862 LANCASTER ANIMAL CARE CENTER; 5210 West Avenue I, Lancaster, CA 93536 • Public Hours 11am-5pm Monday thru Saturday (closed Sunday) Website: animalcare.lacounty.gov Email: [email protected] #shelterdog #cleartheshelters #lacounty #foryoupage #fyp ♬ Margaret – Lana Del Rey
Soon after, Ducky was welcomed by Minnie’s Mutts Dog Rescue and placed in a long-term foster home. There, he’s embraced by a family who showers him with care, letting him enjoy warm baths, cozy naps, and endless affection.
For Evelyn, seeing Ducky thrive in foster care has been both comforting and bittersweet. She hopes that this lively, tender-hearted dog will soon find a permanent home where he will be cherished every day.
“There aren’t words for how much I want him to find the right family,” Evelyn said. “The day he’s adopted will be one of the happiest days of my life. He’s truly one of a kind.”
Ducky is now ready for adoption through Minnie’s Mutts Dog Rescue, a reminder that every dog deserves a chance to be loved. His story shows that even when life deals harsh blows, hope, resilience, and a little kindness can lead to brighter days.