The report described an “aggressive dog” on a cold, isolated road. When the officer arrived and laid eyes on him…

He didn’t reach for a catch pole. He didn’t loom over the animal. Instead, he eased down into the snow a few feet away and began speaking softly. “Hey buddy,” he whispered. “It’s okay. I’m not gonna hurt you.”

For ten quiet minutes, Kade stayed there, speaking gently. Gradually, the dog’s trembling slowed. Kade inched forward. No growl. No snap. Just a weary sigh, as if the dog had finally stopped expecting pain.

Carefully, Kade lifted the frail body into his lap and wrapped his coat around them both. The dog, despite every reason to fear, rested his battered head against the officer’s chest.

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