The internet is abuzz with the story of a kind-hearted Maryland resident who discovered a dog seeking refuge from the blistering heat at a bus stop.
Kendall McGill, aged 30, took to TikTok (@bobbiebeaut) to share the moment she found the helpless dog, abandoned without food and water, as temperatures soared to a scorching 96 degrees Fahrenheit.
Acting swiftly, the Baltimore native, Kendall, scooped up the dog, named Stacy, and cranked up the air conditioning in her car to cool her down. Ensuring Stacy’s comfort and keeping her calm were top priorities for Kendall.
Kendall questioned bystanders if Stacy belonged to them, only to find out she was homeless. Despite a cup of water left for her, Stacy was in the midst of a heatstroke and refused to drink.
“Once in the car, she was still panting heavily, so I cranked up the AC and tried to calm her down,” Kendall expressed.
Recognizing the signs of heatstroke in dogs such as rapid breathing, dry gums, lethargy, and seizures, Kendall tried cooling Stacy down by applying cool water to her head, stomach, and armpits.
As Kendall wasn’t sure how long Stacy had been outside, she assumed the dog was hungry. Stacy devoured two cans of dog food and half a bag of dry food. After a meal, a bath, and some toys, Stacy’s joyful and loving nature shone through.
Though Kendall couldn’t keep Stacy permanently due to her current pet situation, she spent 24 hours caring for her. Kendall admits she fell in love with Stacy and was emotional when surrendering her to the Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter (BARCS).
Despite this, Kendall is confident that Stacy will find a forever home where she can be a cherished companion.
The Response on Social Media
In a TikTok video posted on July 15, Kendall shared Stacy’s story, which quickly went viral, garnering 1.8 million views and 173,400 likes. Moved by the attention, Kendall shared more videos of Stacy’s progress.
“Stacy’s story reached people globally. I didn’t anticipate such a response, but I hope it raises awareness on animal welfare and helps find Stacy the love she deserves,” Kendall remarked.
The viral video attracted over 6,300 comments from appreciative viewers, thanking Kendall for rescuing Stacy and ensuring her well-being.
Users shared sentiments like “Thank you for saving her! Don’t return her to the negligent owner” and “She would have perished, thank you for saving her life!”
Another voice chimed in, “It’s heartbreaking she was left out in this extreme heat. That’s just tragic.”