When a small dog named Joon was found inside a cardboard box on a curb in Queens, she was so severely matted that she was barely recognizable.
Five weeks later, the 3-year-old Maltese mix was healthy enough to run straight toward the person who would adopt her, according to the ASPCA.
Here's what to know
After she was found on a Queens curb inside a cardboard box on April 11, Joon became the subject of an NYPD investigation that ended without an arrest. She was then brought to the ASPCA Animal Hospital.
According to Dr. Alison Liu, the forensic veterinarian who examined her, Joon was underweight, somewhat fearful, and had inflammation on her hind end from "prolonged contact with urine and feces." Liu said the dog "had no injuries, but she was severely matted, with a soiled coat."
Before Joon could move on to behavioral recovery, staff sedated her so they could groom her and treat her skin. Staff also started her on a gradual refeeding plan, then took her to the ASPCA Recovery & Rehabilitation Center in Pawling, New York.
At that facility, the goal was to restore both her health and her sense of security.
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While grieving Benji, her 10-year-old dog, Queens resident Christina C. came across Joon on the ASPCA website and decided to apply.
More background
When Joon first arrived at the ASPCA Recovery & Rehabilitation Center, she was so fearful that Kelly Lewis, a care and enrichment technician, said the dog was initially "shut down and traumatized" and had to be carried outside.
Lewis later noticed signs that Joon was beginning to ease into her environment.
"She would get the zoomies and loved sniffing the grass," she said.
Joon gradually extended that trust to a small group of staff members. Lewis said the dog eventually began running to the front of her door, "spinning in circles, excited to see me," and later felt comfortable enough to curl up in Lewis' lap.
What's being done?
To help Joon recover, the ASPCA focused on keeping her environment calm and allowing her to settle in at her own pace.
Her setup included a larger space and a crate where she could retreat, while treats, consistent handling, and changes to daily routines helped avoid adding unnecessary fear.
Because touch still made Joon uneasy, Lewis said staff kept the dog's collar and harness on during the day so they wouldn't have to put them back on repeatedly.
"She bolted toward me," Christina said. "The staff told me she wasn't usually like that."
Lewis said Joon showed "the exact same positive and contented behaviors with her adopter as she did with us."
Joon is part of Christina's family in Queens alongside two canine housemates, Sugar and Rocky. During the day, she spends time with Christina's mother and also plays in the backyard.
As Christina considered adopting Joon, she said, "A voice was saying, 'Let me help heal your heart.'"
After bringing her home, she had no doubts: "Adopting her is the best decision I've ever made."
Where can I learn more?
Joon's recovery is one of several stories about neglected or overlooked dogs finding safety, trust, and a home.
• At a Wisconsin facility, rescued beagles found homes after making a remarkable turnaround.
• With one family, the sweetest doggo we've ever known became a daily blessing.
• In Thailand, rescuers watched Sienna find a forever home after street-dog heartbreak.
• At Greenville Humane Society, this overlooked shelter mama finally got tacos, toys, and a chance.
• In Utah, a senior shelter dog was reunited with an owner from years ago.
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