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Happy Ending for Discarded Dog

December 31, 2025

Rescuer becomes adopter

Los Angeles, CA –What began as a heartbreaking discovery turned into a magical ending for a one-year-old Terrier mix puppy. During the busy holiday rush, a Gardena Police Officer heard faint whimpers and cries coming from a self-compacting trashcan outside a local church. Inside, the officer found a small, scared dog, now known as Flan, who had been tossed away like trash.

The officer immediately contacted Gardena Animal Control, and Flan was brought to spcaLA South Bay Adoption Center where Flan was provided with medical care and nutritious food while he completed the mandatory stray hold.

trip-tych with pics of small buff colored terrier type dog

On Christmas Eve, the same officer who rescued Flan returned to spcaLA South Bay, this time with his family, to give Flan the safe and loving home he deserves.

Security cameras were present outside the church, but the footage was not released to police. Despite this, Flan’s resilience and the officer’s quick actions have turned a tragic situation into a happy ending.

This is one rescue we’ll never forget!