In Houston, Texas, a woman named Kristin Erwin was driving along a busy road when she noticed something that broke her heart — a lone dog running along the side of traffic, looking lost and terrified. For someone who runs an animal rescue, sights like this are unfortunately far too common. But this one was different. Kristin felt an instant connection.

The poor pup had clearly been abandoned. His eyes darted around in confusion, and his small frame trembled with fear. He had likely spent his early life in a home, surrounded by warmth and love. Now he was navigating a cold, unforgiving world, not understanding why everything had changed.

Kristin, founder ofStreetheart Project, a nonprofit rescue in Houston, pulled over and tried to coax him toward her. But the pup, later named Eggnog, didn’t trust anyone anymore. He kept his distance and eventually ran off, disappearing into the chaos of city streets.

Heartbroken but undeterred, Kristin knew she had to go back — and next time, she’d be prepared.

Two days later, she returned to the same area, this time bringing food and a humane trap. She placed the food inside, set the trap, and waited. It took time, but eventually, Eggnog crept back toward the scent. With no one around and hunger pushing him forward, he stepped inside.

Click. The door shut, and Kristin had him. At last, Eggnog was safe.

Back at his temporary foster home, Eggnog’s trauma was still evident. He didn’t lash out, but his entire body trembled, and he avoided eye contact. Kristin didn’t push. She knew the power of patience. She offered comfort, soft words, and space to heal.

And slowly, Eggnog responded.

Within a few days, he allowed her to pet him. A few more days, and his tail began to wag. Soon, he was following her around the house, his body relaxed, his eyes bright. The scared, silent pup who had once dodged traffic now leaned into gentle touches, soaking up every ounce of kindness.

Back at his temporary foster home, Eggnog’s trauma was still evident. He didn’t lash out, but his entire body trembled, and he avoided eye contact. Kristin didn’t push. She knew the power of patience. She offered comfort, soft words, and space to heal.

And slowly, Eggnog responded.

Within a few days, he allowed her to pet him. A few more days, and his tail began to wag. Soon, he was following her around the house, his body relaxed, his eyes bright. The scared, silent pup who had once dodged traffic now leaned into gentle touches, soaking up every ounce of kindness.

@streetheartstx

I was taking my kid to school when I saw a dog in the ditch. She looked hot and I was worried she was hurt. She took a little coaxing but eventually came cowering over. She is just a pup and the sweetest thing! Looks like she got hung up on a fence and sliced her arm open. We grabbed an appointment for tomorrow. We are calling her Maddie 🤍

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