When Police Officer Michael Pascale first encountered Joey, it was a cold, wet afternoon. He was driving his patrol car through a public park when he noticed a small  black crouched among used syringes and broken beer bottles.

Officer Pascale noticed the  was tied to a fence with a chain around his neck. Joey was soaked, shivering and clearly abandoned.

“He just looked at me with these eyes that said ‘help me,’” Pascale explained to The Dodo. “My first thought was that I needed to get him out of there.”

From Lost and Wet to Safe and Dry

Joey was brought to the Animal Care Centers of NYC shelter in Brooklyn by the official animal lover. She could feel a special connection forming between them as she dried the grateful  off  with a towel.

“I don’t see an animal,” Pascale explained. “I see a soul. And that’s not something I avoid.”

He sent a photo of the  heartbroken to his wife. “Bring him home!” she said immediately. The couple quickly agreed to adopt Joey if they could overcome one small hurdle.

72 Hours Feels Like an Eternity

Officer Pascale was informed by ACC that Joey would have to remain in their custody for a mandatory 72-hour period to verify ownership. No matter how neglected or abused an animal appears, there could be a distraught owner looking for it. The waiting period allows time for their  lost or stolen to be found  and come forward.

Officer Pascale promised to return after a painful farewell between the two of them. He kept his promise and returned the next day, and the next. They grew closer with each visit.

Finally, the waiting period was lifted and Pascale was able to adopt Joey. When the paperwork was complete, Joey was taken out to say goodbye to Pascale.

Officer Pascale vowed to keep him safe and never allow him to experience cruelty or neglect again, as the  cheerful  showered him with kisses. They then returned home to begin their new life together.