New York Dog Rescued With Bullet Fragments In Her Head Is Still Searching For A Loving Home
It’s hard to imagine what little Cookie has endured. Once locked outside in a wire crate under the blazing North Carolina sun, this sweet dog survived cruelty that could have easily taken her life.
Today, thanks to the compassion of rescuers, she’s safe, healing, and waiting for the loving home she’s always deserved.
Cookie’s story began in heartbreaking circumstances. Authorities found her confined in a wire kennel during 98-degree heat, no shade, no water, no shelter.
When she was rescued, officials quickly realized her suffering ran even deeper than neglect. She had been shot in the head.
Investigators later discovered bullet fragments lodged near her brain, along with a visible wound on her cheek and signs of old, untreated jaw fractures. The trauma left Cookie with a permanent head tilt, an enduring reminder of what she survived.
A spokesperson for NYC Second Chance Rescue, the organization that ultimately stepped in to save her, shared:
“Cookie was seized from an active animal cruelty case in North Carolina. She was discovered confined in a wire kennel outdoors in 98-degree heat, with no access to water, shade or shelter.”
“She has bullet fragments lodged near her brain, a visible entry wound on her cheek, and evidence of old, untreated jaw fractures. Her head remains in a permanent tilt, a lasting reminder of the cruelty she endured. The abuse she suffered was deliberate and brutal.”
Cookie had been placed in a municipal shelter after her rescue, but with limited resources and her injuries growing worse, her time was running out. That’s when NYC Second Chance Rescue came to help and they didn’t come alone.
When the rescue team arrived, they found another young dog curled up beside Cookie in the same kennel, a puppy named Rhymes.
The two had bonded closely, finding comfort in each other despite the chaos around them. True to their name, Second Chance Rescue saved both dogs that day. They were inseparable, and the rescue couldn’t imagine leaving one behind.
Cookie was immediately brought to veterinary specialists who confirmed the extent of her injuries. Scans showed bullet fragments lodged dangerously close to her brain. She underwent treatment for infection, pain management, and neurological monitoring.
Despite the odds, Cookie’s recovery was nothing short of remarkable.
Now about a year old, Cookie is a terrier-pit mix with a smile that melts hearts. Her permanent head tilt has become part of her unique charm, a small, sweet reminder of her strength and will to survive.
She’s affectionate, playful, and full of joy. Even after everything she’s been through, she greets everyone with love.
Both Cookie and her best friend Rhymes are thriving in foster care while they wait for forever families to call their own.
Cookie’s journey is, sadly, not unique, many dogs face similar cruelty before finding rescue. But her story is also a powerful reminder of what can happen when people choose kindness over cruelty and refuse to give up on those who need it most.
If you’re interested in giving Cookie or Rhymes a loving home, or supporting the mission that saved their lives, you can learn more at NYC Second Chance Rescue.
