Marco was waiting for help beside a fence.
In the spring of 2019, volunteers from Stray Rescue of St. Louis found him injured, with his face so swollen he was almost unrecognizable, likely because he had been used in illegal dogfights. At the organization’s hospital, they discovered he was septic and needed months of antibiotics, IV fluids, and intensive care. Despite being in pain, he kept seeking affection; the team summed up their surprise this way: he still trusted people.


When he improved, Marco moved into a foster home. Katie, his foster caregiver, fell in love with him and adopted him. Today, he sleeps cozily, plays with his family, and even steals blankets before going to bed. The dog who arrived covered in wounds found a home where he can rest, be loved, and enjoy every day again.


