Niall Harbison continually comes across street dogs in dire need of medical attention and emotional support through his Thailand rescue, Happy Doggo. One one of his most recent rescues had actually fallen off a bridge and completely resisted any human intervention.
Thankfully, Harbison and his team were able to bring the senior dog back to their sanctuary for medical care and much-needed human contact. Slowly, the traumatized dog — who’s now named Bridget — is beginning to trust.
In a previous Instagram post from December 13, Harbison explained that he was contacted to rescue a senior dog who had accidentally fallen off a bridge into water. The canine was scared and injured, yet tried biting anyone who attempted to get near her.
“Nobody could approach her as she was lashing out with bites given how scared she was,” the story shared.
The animal rescue founder was told by locals that Bridget was on a ledge hanging on for “4 days in the monsoon rains with no way out”. Severe impending storms made the situation even more in need of fast action. Bridget also had very poor eyesight, bringing another challenge to the rescue. Finally, Harbison and his team were able to bring her to safety and get the medical attention Bridget needed.
Bridget Is Opening Her Heart
Fortunately, Bridget’s injuries were surprisingly minimal. Her emotional state was much more challenging and in need of repair. The Instagram video featured the many attempts made by caring team members to connect with Bridget, yet she kept fighting them off.
“She didn’t want to hurt us – she was just terrified.” the onscreen text explained. “She thought humans were danger so she fought to survive. She was trapped in fear.”
Related: Lost 17-Year-Old Chihuahua’s Near Accident Saved Her Life
Harbison was dedicated to helping Bridget and never gave up on breaking through the fear she felt so strongly.
“Three weeks of patience, three weeks of showing up, and then, she let us in,” the story continued as Bridget slowly began to allow Harbison to get close and pet her. “Love won.”
Bridget continues to heal at Harbison’s sanctuary and receive the love and affection she so greatly deserves.
Harbison launched Happy Doggo in 2021. In addition to the sterilization and daily feeding of thousands of street dogs, he recently opened a full-service medical clinic in honor of his beloved Golden Retriever, Tina.
Learn more about Happy Doggo or make a donation by visiting their website or accounts on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.
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This story was originally published by Parade Pets on Jan 6, 2026, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.