Abandoned Dog Rescued from Trash Can Finds Forever Home

While walking through Vancouver’s Pacific Spirit Park, animal lovers Terry Sparrow and Krista Brisk made a heartbreaking discovery that would change a dog’s life forever. Sparrow, about to toss his gum into a trash can, noticed movement inside. At first, he thought it might be a squirrel or raccoon—but a closer look revealed a small, fluffy brown dog hidden beneath layers of garbage.

“It was absolutely devastating,” Sparrow told North Shore News. “I still can’t wrap my head around it. Who could possibly discard such a beautiful animal like trash?”

Sparrow and Brisk gently removed the dog and began searching for help. The next morning, they connected with local dog rescuer Laurie Schildt, who immediately offered to foster the pup and take charge of his care.

“When I saw him, I felt a wave of heartbreak and fury,” Schildt shared with The Dodo. “I knew right away that I had to step up and help him in every way I could.”

Veterinarians at Canada West Veterinary Specialists found that the dog—later named Oscar—had suffered multiple injuries, including broken ribs, a fractured leg, and a dislocated hip. Though his recovery would require several surgeries and ongoing treatment, Oscar proved to be incredibly resilient.

Schildt named him Oscar, a nod to Oscar the Grouch, in light of his unexpected beginnings in a trash can.

“Just visited Oscar again—he’s doing amazingly well,” Schildt posted online. “He’s such a fighter, this little guy.”

Oscar quickly adjusted to his new temporary home. “He’s incredibly affectionate and surprises me every day with how strong he is, given what he’s gone through,” Schildt said.

Word of Oscar’s rescue spread rapidly on social media, inspiring community support and donations for his treatment. Canada West Veterinary Specialists even offered to cover part of the medical expenses.

And now, Oscar’s journey has a joyful ending.

“I’ve decided to officially adopt Oscar,” Schildt said. “His future is going to be filled with love, safety, and happiness. He’ll never feel fear or pain again. I absolutely adore him—he’s stolen my heart.”