While on a business trip out of town, I came across a stray dog who looked dejected and alone. His downcast eyes made me wonder what burdens he carried. As I approached, he stood up and, sensing my presence, began bouncing around with excitement. His wagging tail and brightened expression revealed how much he craved companionship.

It was clear the dog had been lonely for a long time, growing visibly happier whenever someone came near. Yet, despite his longing, he hesitated—looking at me, then glancing away, as if unsure whether to trust. I waved at him, and he cautiously took a few steps toward me. When he realized I welcomed his approach, he broke into a joyful smile, bounding around my side and sharing his happiness.

After a few moments of interaction, I had to attend to my work. Later, I checked on him again and found him lying on a pile of old tarps, playing with a cardboard box he used as a toy. It was clear this was where he lived.

When I called to him, he immediately abandoned his toy and ran over. His gentle temperament convinced me to take him home and care for him. I patted his head and promised that, from now on, he would have a home.

He waited patiently by the door as I finished up inside a store, and I found a cardboard box to settle him in, planning to bring him along after work. I even prepared a small welcome gift for him.

After a long day, I took the dog with me on the return journey. Despite his ordeal, he was quiet and well-behaved during the trip. Before going home, I brought him to the vet for a checkup. He cooperated fully with the doctor, but the examination revealed troubling news: he was suffering from canine distemper, and further tests found roundworms, coccidia, and bacillus spores.

Because his immune system was weak and the hospital was full of pathogens, the vet advised against hospitalization. Instead, I was given medication and instructions to care for him at home.

On our way back, I learned that the city where I found him was hit by heavy rainstorms. Given his frail condition and harsh living environment, I realized that if I hadn’t taken him in, he likely wouldn’t have survived.

At home, I gave him a gentle bath and opened a can of food for him. I let him use my other dog’s bed while my original pet was away. By the fifth day, his spirits had already begun to improve, and he quickly learned to use the designated bathroom spot. When the temperature dropped at night, I dressed him in one of my other dog’s shirts to keep him warm.

For fifteen days, I gave him injections and medication as scheduled. Though he was scared, he seemed to understand it was for his own good and cooperated every time. Gradually, his health stabilized and his personality blossomed. He became more active and affectionate, seeking out my company.

By the twenty-fifth day, he had fully recovered. I gave him a name—Banshao, which means “Teriyaki.” Yet, his time as a stray left its mark; he often hid food, worried there might not be another meal. Seeing this, I resolved to always keep him well-fed and even bought him extra snacks.

As the days passed, Banshao grew increasingly attached to me. He became a ray of sunshine in my previously monotonous life, filling my days with joy and laughter. On the fifty-second day, I bought him an ID tag, and by day sixty, I took him to the hospital for his vaccinations.

Now, more than seventy days since I found him, Banshao is living happily every day. He is healthy, playful, and a cherished member of my family.

Banshao’s journey from stray to beloved companion is a reminder that a simple act of kindness can change a life forever. For those who have the chance, consider opening your hearts and homes to animals in need—you may find, as I did, that they bring unexpected light and joy into your world.

Thank you for reading. Please remember to like, comment, and share this story to help raise awareness for stray animals everywhere.