One day, outside the station, I noticed a nervous 8- or 9-year-old boy, Eli, watching me with my K9 partner, Koda. When I asked if he wanted to say hello, he hesitated but eventually approached. He wrapped his arms around Koda and cried, explaining that Koda reminded him of his dad’s dog, Max, who had been his only comfort before his dad left. Eli felt empty without Max.
I walked Eli home, and his mom thanked me, though a bit embarrassed. Eli asked if Koda could visit again, and I promised. Over the next few weeks, Eli’s smiles grew, and his mom joined a support group. They began to heal.
One day, Eli asked if his dad missed them. I told him, “People make mistakes, but you deserve love.” Months later, I received a letter from his mom—Eli’s dad had reached out, and they were starting to heal. Eli finally found hope. It’s amazing how small acts of kindness can make a big impact.
