It was a sunny day in Fort Payne, Alabama. My wife and I were on the hunt for a new house, and in between viewings, we decided to explore the scenic beauty of the Little River Wildlife Management Area. Little did we know, this trip would lead us to finding a dumped dog. 

As we drove through the winding roads, our eyes caught a sight that made our hearts drop – a beagle, lying on the side of the road. Our first thought was the worst, fearing he had been hit by a car. We pulled over immediately, our hearts racing, hoping to offer help.

But as we approached, the beagle’s reaction was not what we expected. He was scared, darting away from us with every step we took. The danger was palpable; the road was very close to a cliff, and one wrong move could send him tumbling down.

Desperation led to creativity. Remembering the leftover rotisserie chicken we had in our van, we created a plan. Piece by piece, we lured him closer, using the chicken as a bridge to build trust. It was a slow process, but eventually, we managed to loop our leash around his neck, ensuring his safety.

The beagle, whom we later named Alabama, was a pitiable sight. He was emaciated, a clear sign that he had been abandoned and left to fend for himself. Our next step was to check for a microchip in the town, hoping to reunite him with his family. But our search yielded no results. No one was looking for him, and he had no chip.

It was then that we made a decision that would change Alabama’s life forever. We couldn’t leave him behind. So, we took him with us to Pennsylvania, determined to find him a loving home.

Enter the Nittany Beagle Rescue, a beacon of hope for beagles in need. With their help, Alabama’s story took a turn for the better. Within a short time, he found a new home, one where he would be cherished and cared for.

Alabama’s journey from the side of the road in Fort Payne to a loving home in Pennsylvania is a testament to the power of compassion and the difference a single act of kindness can make. Today, he thrives, living his best life, surrounded by love and care.

In life, we often find ourselves at crossroads, faced with decisions that can change the course of our journey. For us, that day in Fort Payne was one such crossroad. And we’re forever grateful that we chose the path of compassion, giving Alabama the chance at a new beginning.