A tiny Rottweiler puppy who spent days trapped inside a home with his deceased owner was just “minutes from death” when rescuers finally reached him.
The puppy, named Locksley, is believed to be just 7 to 8 weeks old. He was discovered inside the house where his owner had passed away — along with the rest of his litter. No one realized the puppies were inside for more than a week, leaving them without food or water. Locksley was the only one who survived.
Rochelle Steffen, CEO and founder of Mac’s Mission, a Missouri-based rescue that specializes in dogs facing severe medical crises, was among those who responded. She told Newsweek that Locksley was in devastating condition when he was found and would not have lived much longer without immediate help.
“The owner had passed in the home, and the animals were alone without food or water access for over a week,” Steffen said. “Locksley was in the worst condition. He was malnourished, dehydrated, had an upper respiratory infection, and was the only remaining puppy of his litter.”
She added that Locksley’s tiny body was nearly lifeless when rescuers located him hiding under a couch.
“Had he not gotten care when he did, he likely would not have made it much longer,” Steffen said.
Locksley was rushed to the veterinarian, where he received fluids, antibiotics, and round-the-clock care. He spent two days in intensive care before finally beginning to show signs of improvement.
Despite the horrific start to his life, Locksley’s recovery has been nothing short of remarkable. Steffen says he is now thriving in a foster home and enjoying what it finally feels like to be a puppy.
“He is thriving and full of spunk,” she said. “He is in a foster home and enjoying just being a happy puppy.”
Locksley remains on medical hold as he continues to recover. He still needs vaccinations, to be neutered, and microchipped before becoming available for adoption. Applications are expected to open in late January, with updates posted through Mac’s Mission.
Locksley’s story has touched hearts far beyond the rescue community after Steffen shared his rescue on TikTok. A video showing him being pulled from a carrier — scared, weak, and barely moving — has gone viral, racking up more than 574,000 views and over 59,000 likes.
WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW:
The caption on the video stated that Locksley was “minutes from death” when he was found.
Mac’s Mission focuses on rescuing dogs that many shelters cannot afford to save — animals suffering from neglect, abuse, injury, or serious medical conditions who would otherwise be euthanized. Steffen and her team work to stabilize these dogs and place them in loving forever homes.
The online reaction to Locksley’s story has been overwhelming. Hundreds of commenters have shared emotional responses, many thanking the rescue for saving his life.
“I’m literally sobbing, thank you for saving this precious angel,” one person wrote.
Another added, “Oh sweet baby. I’m so sorry about your littermates. Thankful they found you in time.”
“This hurts my heart,” another commenter said. “So glad he has you to love him.”
Steffen says the outpouring of support has been incredible and hopes Locksley’s journey inspires others to help animals in need.
“The reaction has been amazing,” she said. “Everyone has rallied together to support this sweet little guy, and we are so thankful to the 15/10 Foundation for sponsoring all his medical care. The support from our community means we can continue rescuing more animals in a medical crisis.”