Officer Rick Broz, a dedicated animal advocate in Lorain, Ohio, has been a steadfast guardian of animals for over 8 years. His efforts have helped reunite lost pets with their families, supported the enactment of stronger animal cruelty legislation, and saved numerous neglected and abused animals.

Among these, there is a heartwarming story of Herbie, a Pit Bull mix, who was found in a severely emaciated and wounded state outside an abandoned home.

In December, an anonymous call led Officer Broz to this neglected canine, and what he discovered shocked him. Herbie, the starving dog, was malnourished, eyeless in one eye, with a head swollen from infection and a shattered skull.

Officer Broz had never seen a dog in such a pitiable state in his entire career. In his official report, he described Herbie’s condition:

“I observed a light brown canine lying in the lawn. I’ve not seen such a wasted canine in my career. A canine of this type should weigh around 75 or further pounds, and this canine appeared to be around 25 to 30 pounds.

The top of the dog’s head was grotesquely swollen, supposedly from an infected perforation crack, to nearly twice its anticipated size. The swelling actually was forcing the canine’s eyelids closed.”

Officer Broz immediately took Herbie to the Lorain Animal Clinic, where urgent treatment began. Given Herbie’s poor condition, his recovery was uncertain. However, within a few days, Herbie’s condition started improving.

His head swelling reduced, and he began regaining some weight. He also became more active and enjoyed his outdoor outings. Shortly after Christmas, it was discovered that Herbie had adenocarcinoma, an inoperable and non-responsive cancer. Despite this diagnosis, Herbie continued to be happy, free of pain, and enjoyed his time at the clinic.

Throughout Herbie’s stay at the clinic, Officer Broz played an active role in his life. Herbie spent weekdays with Dr. Woods and the clinic’s staff, while on weekends, he had special visits with Officer Broz.

Their bond grew stronger, and Herbie cherished his weekends at Officer Broz’s home. Regular updates on Herbie’s condition and their time together were shared on Herbie’s dedicated Facebook group.

Officer Broz was committed to providing Herbie with a loving home for as long as he was happy, pain-free, eating well, and not losing weight. Although the duration of Herbie’s life was uncertain, Officer Broz remained dedicated to making every day a good day for his beloved companion.