Driver Spots ‘Garbage Bag’ on Highway Shoulder — Only to Discover a Helpless Animal Fighting for Its Life

Tessa Lane was recently driving down the highway when she saw what she thought was a pile of trash by the side of the road. But as she got closer, she realized something shocking — what she’d mistaken for garbage was actually a dog.

Dog curled up on side of road

“It wasn’t until I was at a specific angle and I could see her one ear [pop] up that I realized it was a living and very scared puppy,” Lane told The Dodo.

Dog on side of wet road

As Lane was trying to get the dog to safety, a kind stranger named Misty pulled over to help. Terrified, the pup hid under Lane’s car, so the women worked together to coax her out from underneath it.

Finally, the dog was safe, and Lane took her home. She decided to name her Lucky. At first, Lucky was terrified and kept her distance from Lane. But then, later that day, Lucky surprised Lane by eating out of her hand, a sign she was feeling a bit more comfortable.

Dog in sheets

A local dog groomer named Andrea, who’d seen Lane’s video, offered to give the pup a nice wash and haircut. After her pampering, Lucky seemed to feel even more relaxed.

Dog getting groomed

“It’s clear that earning her trust will take time, but I’m confident she will eventually understand that she is safe with us and that we would never hurt her,” Lane said.

Dog with woman

“They don’t have the words to ask for assistance or the understanding of where to go for safety,” Lane said.

Thankfully for Lucky, though, the right person found her and saved her life.

Two dogs in the trunk of a car

“I genuinely believe that Lucky and I formed a special bond the day I rescued her,” Lane said.