In June of 2014,
Cleveland police officers Neil Pesta and Brian Kellums responded to a call
about a male suspect who was beating a dog in the middle of the street.
Witnesses claimed they saw the man beating the pit bull with a
leather belt, hit the dog in the face with a brick, and choke him. One of the
witnesses had convinced the suspect to hand over the dog before calling
the authorities.
The poor pit bull, who was
only about one-year-old at the time, was battered and traumatized. He sustained
injuries to his face, legs, and paws. But then, something amazing happened. As
soon as the officers arrived at the scene, the sweet, gentle dog jumped right
into their car. He was ready to begin a life without abuse, but who could love
an unwanted pit bull?
After the dog was
treated for his injuries, Cleveland Patrol Officer Brandon Melbar agreed to
foster the pit bull, who he named Harvard, on a temporary basis until he was
ready to be adopted by a forever family. However, Officer Melbar quickly fell
in love with Harvard and couldn’t bear to part with his new best friend.
The officer and the pit bull are now father and son, and Harvard has spent the
last year surrounded by love, care, and lots of pampering. God bless this hero
officer who went above and beyond the call of duty and gave Harvard his second
chance!
In June of 2014, Cleveland
police officers responded to a call about a man who was beating a dog in the
middle of the street. It was a horrific beating; the monster of a man hit the
dog in the face with a brick, and choked him.
As soon as officers arrived
at the scene, this battered dog revealed his sweet, gentle nature. Without
hesitation, the pit bull jumped right into their squad car and let the sun
shine on his back. It was clear he was ready to begin a life without abuse --
but once brought to shelters, we all know that pit bulls have a particularly
tough time finding forever homes.
Cleveland Patrol Officer
Brandon Melbar agreed to foster the pit bull, who he named Harvard, on a
temporary basis. However, Officer Melbar quickly fell in love with Harvard and
couldn't bear to part with his new best friend. He decided to adopt Harvard.
This wasn't the first time a
Cleveland Police Officer went above and beyond the call of canine duty. The
viral photo below shows Cleveland Police Patrol Officer John Lyons lying down
with one of the many dogs he has rescued. In 2013, Officer Lyons found a sick,
pregnant dog and brought her home. She gave birth to her puppies, who he and
his wife began caring for.
Harvard received the medical
treatment he needed, and his wounds have since healed. Thanks to Officer
Melbar, Harvard has spent the last year as a happy, healthy pup!
God bless this hero officer
for giving Harvard his second chance at a life of love.
