On a quiet road near Elin Pelin, Bulgaria, a chance encounter between a broken-down car and a desperate puppy led to a life-changing rescue. The puppy, later named Zaki, had been scavenging for food when he became entangled in a fast-food takeout bag. Emaciated and frightened, he was running out of time — until animal rights activist Stilyana Gerova happened to pull over nearby. This unexpected twist of fate not only saved Zaki’s life, but also highlighted the grim reality faced by many stray animals in Bulgaria.
Gerova, founder of the animal rescue organization Breed Love Bulgaria, had stopped to change a tire when she noticed a small, frail dog darting near the roadside. A brown KFC bag was looped around the dog’s neck, a remnant of his desperate search through garbage for something to eat. According to Gerova, the puppy was “only skin and bones — very hungry and afraid.” As someone deeply involved in animal welfare, she was uniquely prepared to act. She gently secured the puppy and brought him into her car, beginning the first step of his recovery.
What struck me most about this story was how a moment of personal inconvenience — a flat tire — became a turning point for a vulnerable animal. It’s a reminder of how compassion can surface in the most unexpected circumstances. While Gerova’s intervention was extraordinary, it also reflects the broader issue of stray dogs in the region. Breed Love Bulgaria notes that abandonment is a daily occurrence, with unwanted animals often left to fend for themselves.
Once in the care of Breed Love Bulgaria, Zaki joined over 200 dogs and 80 cats being housed and rehabilitated by the organization. Far from the frightened puppy found in the woods, Zaki began to show a vibrant personality. Described as social, friendly, and curious, he quickly adapted to his new environment. His rescuers shared that he enjoys human interaction and especially loves going on walks, where he eagerly explores his surroundings. “With his curious and playful nature, he brings a lot of energy and zest for life,” the rescue wrote on Instagram, “but at the same time he also enjoys relaxed cuddles.”
Approximately one year old, Zaki is learning to coexist with cats and already does well with other dogs. His enthusiasm for learning and exploration makes him a good match for an active family. Still, what he needs most is a loving person who can offer him time, patience, and attention. This kind of thoughtful placement is central to Breed Love Bulgaria’s mission. Every two to three months, Gerova drives a transport of rescued animals to meet their foster or adoptive families at a designated location in Germany.
For potential adopters, Zaki will travel with an EU pet passport and will be fully prepared for his new life. This includes being microchipped, vaccinated, dewormed, and tested for Mediterranean diseases, parvovirus, and giardia. The rescue’s thorough preparation underscores their commitment to ensuring each animal’s health and safety before adoption. Those interested in welcoming Zaki into their home can contact Breed Love Bulgaria to learn more about the process and determine if he is a suitable fit for their household.
This story of a puppy trapped in a fast-food bag and saved by a stranger’s misfortune is both heartwarming and sobering. It highlights the resilience of animals like Zaki and the tireless efforts of rescuers who fight for their well-being. While Zaki’s journey is one of hope, it also reflects the ongoing need for support and awareness around the plight of abandoned animals. Donations to organizations like Breed Love Bulgaria go a long way in helping more dogs and cats find safety, care, and eventually, a forever home.
To learn more about adopting Zaki or supporting the rescue’s work, visit Breed Love Bulgaria’s website. Donations can also be made to help other animals in need of rescue and rehabilitation. What began as a flat tire on a wooded road ended up being the lifeline a small dog needed. With continued support, more animals like Zaki can be given the second chance they deserve.
