When NYPD Officer Michael Pascale first came into contact with Joey, it was a chilly, rainy afternoon. He was in his squad car patrolling a public park when he discovered a little black dog hidden among the shattered beer bottles and used needles.

The dog was being held to a fence by a heavy chain that Officer Pascale noticed around the animal’s neck. Joey was obviously abandoned because he was soaked, shivering, and cold.

He’s just giving me that ‘Help Me’ expression, Pascale told The Dodo. The initial thought was, “I have to get him out of here.”

From lost and soaked to secure and dry

Joey was taken to the Brooklyn Animal Care Centers of NYC shelter by the animal-loving cop. With each toweling of the grateful dog, he felt a particular connection growing between them.

I don’t see an animal, said Pascale. I recognize a soul. And I don’t avoid doing it.

He used SMS to send a picture of the abandoned puppy to his wife. Bring him home, she yelled at once. The couple was quick to agree to adopt Joey if they could just get over one little hurdle.

72 Hours Feel Like A Lifetime.

Joey would have to remain in their custody for the required 72-hour stray hold, the ACC informed Officer Pascale. Any animal, regardless of how neglected or abandoned it may appear to be, may have a distressed owner searching for them. They can use a stray hold to buy some time to find and report their missing or stolen pet.

After a painful departure, Officer Pascale promised to return. He followed through on his promise and returned the next day as well. Each time they crossed paths, they drew closer.

Finally, the stray hold was dropped, allowing Pascale to take Joey under her wing. Joey was escorted outside to say goodbye to Pascale when the paperwork was finished.

Officer Pascale made a promise to guard him and make sure he never experiences abuse or neglect again as the joyful dog showered him with kisses. They returned home after that to start their new life together.

A Resolve That Is Completely Incomplete

There was once a famished, afraid stray, but now there is a robust, cherished pet. Joey takes pleasure in watching television with his mother and giving his father tours of New York City. Officer Pascale notes how much of a mama’s boy he has become.

Despite being a wonderful dog—Instagram Joey’s handle is @Joey Good Doggo—he isn’t flawless. Although though he still doesn’t like to be in the rain and still occasionally gets into the trash, he is generally content. He is also similar to others.

And that’s truly all a puppy wants to do.