On the bank of the Maumee River in Fort Wayne, Indiana, a sunbleached port-a-potty sits in a patch of grass near a boat ramp. It’s the type of nondescript park furniture that’s easy to miss, an object you’d breeze by on your way to the water. And so, it’s a miracle, really, that a City of Fort Wayne employee happened to open the portable toilet’s door last month, on the same morning an 8-week-old puppy happened to be hiding inside.

Cowering near the toilet was Louie, a black and white puppy abandoned by his former owner. Living outdoors on his own, Louie had become malnourished, and his ribs poked at his taut fur coat.

Heartbroken for the dog, the city employee quickly contacted Fort Wayne Animal Care & Control (FWACC) for help.

Rescuers rushed to the scene, coaxed the pup into their vehicle, and transported him to safety. Wide-eyed, Louie accepted their aid.

Veterinary team members implemented a feeding plan to help Louie return to a healthy weight. Watching Louie adjust, animal control staff couldn’t help but admire the pup’s resilience and capacity for love despite the odds.

“This precious boy has been a little wiggly angel, despite being failed by the person that was supposed to care for him,” FWACC wrote in a Facebook post at the time. “Once his excitement for you calms down, he loves curling up in your warm lap. What a testament to how forgiving animals can be.”

Rescuers felt frustrated that Louie had ended up in such a dangerous situation. The animal experts encourage anyone in need to ask local officials and organizations for help instead of dumping animals on the street.

“Many people may be hesitant to reach out to an animal shelter for help because they fear they will be judged or have to pay a fine,” a representative from FWACC told The Dodo. “At FWACC, we are a safe, non-judgmental organization, and we truly want what is best for each pet owner and pet. If someone fell on hard times and needed to give their pet to us and they live in Fort Wayne, there are no fees involved.”

These days, Louie is living with a foster family, learning how to be a dog again.

“Louie is currently thriving in his foster home,” the representative said. “He is now at a healthy weight and continues to grow his confidence each day.”

Enveloped in love and support, it’s safe to say Louie won’t have to worry about feeling alone ever again.

“We couldn’t be happier for little Louie,” FWACC wrote in a Facebook post. “His transformation is inspiring, and we can’t express enough how grateful we are for his foster family showing him what it means to be loved and preparing him for the best future!”