What should have been the start of joyful December days instead became a desperate fight for survival for a homeless dog left alone in cold weather with almost nothing to protect her. In Richmond, Virginia, rescuers made a heartbreaking discovery behind a restaurant dumpster: a pit bull mix abandoned with only a tiny fleece blanket and some leftover food — a sight that has drawn community concern and highlighted ongoing issues of pet abandonment during the holidays and beyond.
A Chilling Discovery in Freezing December
On December 12, amid dropping temperatures and winter rain, an animal control officer investigating a report came upon a dog lying behind a dumpster in Richmond. The dog was curled up on a small fleece blanket, barely shielded from the cold. Beside her was a to-go food container with a little food inside — the only clues to her recent plight.
There was no note, no explanation, and no indication of who might have left her there. The dog, later named Loca, seemed confused but physically unharmed — a small mercy in such a desperate situation. The chilling conditions added urgency to her rescue, as exposure to cold and wet weather can quickly become life-threatening for animals without proper shelter.
Immediate Care and Shelter
Local authorities transported Loca to Richmond Animal Care & Control (RACC), where staff quickly began assessing her health and needs. Despite her abandonment, Loca’s demeanor was surprisingly upbeat. Rescuers described her as “happy and bouncy,” with a sweet temperament that has won the affection of shelter workers and volunteers alike.
Shelter Director Christie Chipps Peters told Newsweek that Loca’s cheerful attitude was heartening amidst the difficult circumstances of her discovery. In her current care, Loca is warm, fed, and receiving attention to ensure she’s healthy as she waits for her next chapter.
The Broader Issue of Holiday Abandonment
Although Loca’s case surfaced just weeks before Christmas — a timing that stirred strong emotional reactions within the community — Peters explained that abandonment is unfortunately not limited to the holiday season. Pets are surrendered or left behind year-round, often due to changes in owners’ lives, financial pressures, or misguided decisions to “wait for someone else to take care of them.”
According to national shelter data, millions of cats and dogs enter rescues annually, with a large percentage identified as strays or relinquished animals. In the first half of 2025 alone, shelter intake figures showed that strays made up the largest portion of animals arriving at facilities across the U.S. — reflecting a systemic challenge that continues to strain resources. Facebook
Loca’s Personality and Adoption Potential
Now safe inside the shelter, Loca’s personality has quickly become a highlight of her story. Staff say she’s friendly with both dogs and cats and enjoys interaction with people. Despite rough beginnings, Loca’s energy and sweet nature are shining through, painting the picture of a dog ready to move on to a loving home after her rescue. Facebook
Andrew Alpin from India is the Brand Manager of Doggo digest. Andrew is an experienced content specialist and social media manager with a passion for writing. His forte includes health and wellness, Travel, Animals, and Nature. A nature nomad, Andrew is obsessed with mountains and loves high-altitude trekking. He has been on several Himalayan treks in India including the Everest Base Camp in Nepal.
