When a brutal cold snap swept through Cokato, Minnesota, last week, temperatures plunged to minus 25 degrees Fahrenheit. Seeking shelter from the freezing wind, two tiny German shepherd puppies crawled beneath a homeowner’s porch and pressed close together to survive.
The family had noticed the young strays wandering their neighborhood days earlier but hadn’t been able to catch them. Seeing the same pups now curled up against the bitter cold, they feared the worst and quickly shared a photo on Facebook, hoping someone could help.
That post caught the eye of Kendra Plaschko of Ruff Start Rescue, who rushed to the scene. But the terrified sisters stayed tucked deep beneath the porch, far out of reach.
With no way to coax them out, Plaschko and the homeowners left food, water, and blankets, vowing to try again.
The next morning, Plaschko returned with intake manager Meg Larson — and a secret weapon: warm rotisserie chicken.
The smell proved irresistible. Slowly, the frightened puppies crept forward until Larson was able to scoop them up and carry them to safety.
The pups were much younger than they first appeared. Though their fluffy coats made them look older, Larson discovered they were just 12 weeks old. Both suffered frostbite on their noses, toes, and tongues, but were otherwise healthy.
Larson took them home to foster, naming the sisters Delta and Cleo (short for Cleopatra). At first, they were skittish and fearful — likely born outside and abandoned before they ever learned to trust people. But each day, they began to soften.
“Even though they’re terrified every day, they’re making progress,” Larson said. “The first time they let me really rub their faces, I definitely got teary.”
Already, their personalities are shining through. Tiny Cleo rules the pair with a bossy streak, while her larger sister Delta is a lovable goof. Together, they’re growing stronger, braver, and happier with each passing day.
Delta and Cleo will remain in foster care until they are fully healed, vaccinated, and spayed. Then, they’ll be ready for adoption through Ruff Start Rescue.
Until that day comes, Larson is cherishing every small milestone.
“They make such huge strides every day,” she said.
To help more animals like Delta and Cleo, consider supporting Ruff Start Rescue here.
