When Orlando Police Department officers arrested a suspect for grand theft a few weeks ago, they didn’t expect to uncover another victim in the process. Sitting quietly beside the woman was what looked like a tangled bundle of fur.
But underneath all that matted hair was a neglected little dog in desperate need of care.
“It was very clear this little guy needed help that he wasn’t getting at home,” said Dannielle Southon, founder of Central Florida Fosters. “It was obviously heart-wrenching.”
The officers wasted no time. After ensuring the suspect was in custody, they brought the dog — later named Sullivan — to a local shelter. His owner was found unfit to reclaim him, giving Sullivan the chance at a brand-new start.
When Southon first saw Sullivan’s photo, she knew she had to help.
“His picture really pulled at my heartstrings,” she said. “And when I met him, he immediately started giving me kisses. I just knew he was going to be a sweetie.”
Before heading to his foster home, Sullivan got the gift he’d needed for so long — a fresh grooming. The dirty, matted fur came off, revealing the most adorable little face.
“Oh my gosh, such a change!” Southon said. “I can’t imagine how much better he feels having gotten rid of that dirty and smelly hair.”
Now just 1.5 years old, Sullivan has quickly blossomed in foster care. Playful, affectionate, and laid-back, he’s proving to be the kind of all-around pup who would thrive in a loving home.
But Sullivan’s journey of healing didn’t stop there. Southon even arranged a reunion with the officer who first helped him. The moment was pure joy.
“She cried, I teared up,” Southon said. “Seeing how happy he was with her was so heartwarming. She kept saying he looked like a totally different dog.”
Today, Sullivan is healthy, vaccinated, and officially ready to find his forever family.
“He’s lived through so much already,” Southon said. “Now it’s time he finds the type of home he truly deserves.”
Anyone interested in adopting Sullivan can contact Central Florida Fosters at centralflfosters@gmail.com.
