One hot Thursday, my tenants told me about a tiny dog running around the complex, and the nearby highway.

PHOTO: Anonymous

Worried for her, I called her owner. He said that he had given her away, and she wasn't his responsibility anymore. I told him that if he could catch her, I'd bring her to her back to her new owner.

A few minutes later, I saw him leave, so I thought he had the little dog with him. A few hours later, I heard a small dog yelp. I ran outside, but didn't see anything out of the ordinary.

I went to her previous owner's house, and saw him kicking her. Being the animal lover that I am, I called the police. While on the phone with them, I noticed the curious little dog peeking around the corner at me. She seemed so sweet and vulnerable that I knew I had to do something.

I asked the man if I could take her, and he said yes, he didn't want her. He was okay with that, surprisingly. I brought her home, and introduced her to my other two dogs. My Chihuahua took to her immediately, but my Rat Terrier took a while to warm up to her.

I decided to name her Penny, since her old name isn't suitable to be printed.

PEXELS

These days, Penny is spoiled beyond belief. She follows me around everywhere, and she has her own spot in the bed.

Just like any other dog, she loves treats and is not above stealing them from her brother and sister. She still bears some remnants of her previous life, though. If someone yells or if I'm out of her sight when other people are in the room with her, she starts to shake and will immediately search for a place to hide.

Slowly, though, she's realizing that Mommy doesn't hit or kick, and she'll always be loved, no matter what.

Story submitted by Anonymous, of Bunkie, Louisiana.

Penny's story was originally shared on theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com. Share your very own rescue story here!