A small dog named Hudson recently found a forever home on Staten Island after facing several challenges. Despite being rescued from the chilly waters of the East River in April, he quickly became part of the DeSalvo family.
Jared DeSalvo, who is part of the NYPD Harbor Unit, was one of the officers involved in the rescue of the two-year-old dog.
“My family was really interested in having a dog, and I believe this is a great chance for her to have a better life,” DeSalvo shared with the Post.
Hudson, named after a waterway though pulled from the East River, was discovered near Pier 15 at South Street Seaport.
“She’s really adorable, but don’t let her size fool you; she has a lot of spirit and holds her own,” he added. “We’re glad to be able to offer her a loving home.”
Shortly after her rescue, DeSalvo visited local shelters in Queens and the Phyllis Millstein Foundation’s Animal Welfare Adoption Center. It didn’t take long for him to realize that Hudson was perfect for their family.
He and his wife, Nicole, surprised their kids, Stella and her brother, with the new puppy on Saturday.
“The kids have been eager to know about her since the day she was rescued,” DeSalvo noted. “They really care about her. We wanted to adopt, but didn’t want to assume anything.”
The children were initially told they were going to a party, which added to the excitement.
When they finally met Hudson, Stella couldn’t contain her joy, jumping up and down as her sibling hugged the new family member.
The DeSalvos had hoped to adopt Hudson sooner, but they wanted to ensure no one came forward to claim her since she was found with a harness.
“I encouraged him to bring her home as soon as I saw her picture, but Jared likes to follow the rules,” Nicole explained. “She really is an adorable dog.”
“When he sent that picture of her wet and bundled in a towel, my first reaction was, ‘Bring her home!'”
Hudson isn’t the only pet in the DeSalvo household; they also have a 15-year-old terrier named Bocce.
“Bocce gets along well with other dogs, so I think they’ll become great friends,” DeSalvo remarked.
The kids made sure Hudson had everything she needed, ordering beds, snacks, and toys. Hudson will even have a high-tech collar with GPS tracking.
DeSalvo emphasized the importance of ensuring Hudson has a happy life.
“I think this sets a compassionate example, showing that we can help those in need, and when we have the ability to do so, it creates a special situation,” he stated.
“She’ll take great care of us as well.”
