Alan Calimbas, both a real estate agent and an animal savior, was deeply moved after encountering Pearl’s situation online.
This lovely dog was stuck in a jam-packed shelter in Riverside County, California, and was slated for euthanasia the very next day due to lack of space.
With limited time and a great distance separating him from Pearl, Calimbas had only a single day to alter her fate.
Realizing the urgency, he decided to handle the rescue himself. Without time to spare, he secured a flight to Los Angeles and sped off to rescue the pup.
Alan landed at the airport and dashed toward the shelter.
Managing the crazy traffic, he was anxious about arriving before it was too late.
Freedom’s Sweet Reward
He kept reassuring the shelter he was en route. His anxiety lifted significantly once he finally reached the location and got Pearl.
With just minutes to spare, he whisked her away for her liberation stroll.
Pearl, realizing her newfound freedom, wagged her tail furiously and leaped with joy.
Calimbas was taken aback by how underfed the little dog was.
Despite her tiredness, Pearl had a look of relief, peering at her rescuer with eager and hopeful eyes.
Wanting to celebrate her newfound freedom, Calimbas decided to treat Pearl to her first burger.
“People often say you shouldn’t give dogs human food, but there was no way I’d deny her a taste of the good life,” Calimbas shared with Cuddle Buddies.
Experiencing Joy for the First Time
With her belly full, Calimbas took Pearl on yet another adventure to PetSmart.
The pup, filled with curiosity, seemed to be encountering toys for the first time and was fascinated by them!
She dashed around, sniffing everything in wonder. Alan spoiled her by purchasing anything that caught her eye.
Later, at a dog-welcoming hotel, it became clear that Pearl had never known a real home.
She was bemused by the television, not understanding what it was.
Pearl continued to explore, circling the bed until Calimbas tossed some toys onto it.
In a burst of excitement, she leaped onto the bed, gleefully playing. She looked utterly content, resting her head while allowing her tail to convey her joy.
“She sprawled out, rolling happily — you could tell she felt secure, possibly for the first time in ages. Witnessing her happiness was amazing,” Calimbas reflected.
The following morning, Pearl was jittery, readying for her very first plane ride.
Unbeknownst to her, she was about to meet the key figures of her new life — her forever family.
Finding Her Forever Home
Upon arrival, Pearl’s new family eagerly awaited her at the airport.
The connection was instant and mutual—they fell for her immediately, and the feeling was evidently mutual as she showered them with kisses.
Before heading off to her new life, she gave Calimbas a farewell kiss, a sign of gratitude for his life-saving mission.
Today, Pearl thrives with a family that adores her.
Each day presents a new adventure filled with joy. She cherishes hiking with her humans, taking in the stunning scenery.
But perhaps her favorite moments are spent cuddling with them, basking in their affection.
