Sometimes, hope is all it takes to change a life. That hope lived within Ladybird, a senior black Labrador, who found herself abandoned in a public restroom in Destrehan, Louisiana. But her story took a heartwarming turn, thanks to the compassion of kind-hearted rescuers.
Ladybird wasn’t just another stray. Her owner, facing immense hardship, left her there temporarily, along with a heartbreaking note. He hoped someone would be kind enough to look after her until he could return. Although the situation was tragic, what unfolded next proved that humanity still exists.

Ladybird’s Unbreakable Bond With Her Owner
Ladybird had spent her entire life beside her human. From just six weeks old, the two traveled across the country together, never parting ways. Whenever their journey became difficult, they always returned to their home in North Carolina to rest before hitting the road again.
Unfortunately, this time was different. Her owner had become homeless in Louisiana. Living in a shelter and saving every penny, he dreamed of returning to North Carolina with his beloved companion. With no vehicle and nowhere safe for Ladybird, he made the heartbreaking choice to leave her in a park restroom overnight, along with a note pleading for kindness and a bowl of water.

The Rescue Mission Begins
By morning, rescuers had found Ladybird. When her owner returned, she was gone. Distraught, he contacted animal control and learned she had been taken to the St. Charles Parish Animal Shelter.
Once shelter staff learned Ladybird’s story, they refused to let her fate be just another case. Touched by the unshakable bond between the dog and her owner, they decided to help. They reached out to the Virginia Beach SPCA, who quickly agreed to take Ladybird in and offer her the care she deserved.

Pampered With Love And Care
Upon arriving at the Virginia Beach SPCA, Ladybird received more than shelter—she received love. Staff treated her to a gentle bath and a soothing spa day to help her relax. They even rewarded her bravery with a delicious pupachino, celebrating her sweet and patient nature.
Soon, her story touched the hearts of pet lovers and organizations alike. A community of animal advocates rallied together to support Ladybird. They raised enough money to fly her back home, ensured she received medical care, and provided her with all the supplies she would need.

Reunited At Last
Finally, Ladybird arrived in North Carolina and reunited with her grandma. The moment was filled with pure joy. Their emotional reunion brought tears to the eyes of everyone who followed her story.
Later, Ladybird’s owner reached out to the SPCA team with an update. “Ladybird is doing wonderfully with her family in North Carolina! We had quite a few questions about her human in Louisiana, and we want everyone to know that he is doing well and is so happy that Ladybird is home,” the organization shared on Facebook.

A Journey Fueled By Compassion
Ladybird’s journey is a testament to the power of love and community. Although abandoned in a desperate moment, she never lost hope. Her story proves that with compassion and unity, even the darkest circumstances can lead to brighter days.
This loyal pup and her devoted owner overcame heartbreak and separation, all thanks to a network of strangers who refused to turn away. Their actions remind us that kindness costs nothing, but its impact can last a lifetime.
Ladybird Goes HomeAll of us at the Virginia Beach SPCA are grateful to have been part of Ladybird’s story, but her journey was only possible because of the kind people at St. Charles Parish Animal Shelter who were committed to getting her home. An additional thanks goes out to St. Charles Humane Society, Louisiana for raising funds for the flight, Wings of Rescue for safely delivering Ladybird to Virginia, Turning Rescues Into Pets – TRIP for providing Ladybird with pet supplies and medical care, and Salon Versace Dog Wash & Grooming for generously pampering our sweet girl. UPDATE: Ladybird is doing wonderfully with her family in North Carolina! We had quite a few questions about her human in Louisiana, and we want everyone to know that he is doing well and is so happy that Ladybird is home. Ladybird’s journey to North Carolina was his plan and it was what he wanted for her, and we are happy we could help make that happen. He chose to stay in Louisiana and will join her as soon as he is ready! Any donations made through this post between now and the end of August will be split evenly between the organizations involved in this story. Thank you for your support and for helping all animals find homes.
Posted by Virginia Beach SPCA on Wednesday, August 5, 2020