Resilient Leo Found: From Dumpster Debris to Joyful Reunion with Family

On April 16, the community was stunned to hear about Leo, a missing dog found in horrific conditions—wrapped in duct tape and discarded in a dumpster, left with little hope of survival.

The Nebraska Humane Society quickly launched an investigation to identify those responsible for this cruel act. Leo was discovered on April 14 by employees of an Omaha accounting firm who heard strange sounds coming from their office dumpster.

At first, they thought it was a raccoon, but were horrified to find Leo trapped, his legs and tail bound with duct tape, and debris tangled in his matted fur.

Kevin Wiederin, one of the firm’s employees, called the scene the worst he had ever witnessed. Help arrived through Aaron O’Connell, who had experience rescuing animals via a pet charity, while the firm promptly contacted Animal Control.

Officers carefully freed Leo and took him to the Nebraska Humane Society, where staff gently removed the tape and cleaned him up.

Despite the trauma, Leo responded well to sedation and treatment. He wagged his tail and showed remarkable resilience.

Thanks to Leo’s microchip, rescuers traced him back to his owner, Erin Dillon-Pasillas, who had been desperately searching after reporting him missing just days before.

Erin felt a mix of relief and heartbreak upon hearing the news but was overjoyed to be reunited with her beloved dog. Though Leo’s fur was trimmed short due to his ordeal, he remains healthy and strong.

Erin lovingly called him the “world’s cutest dog” and was baffled by anyone who would want to harm him. Unfortunately, the remote spot where Leo was abandoned lacked surveillance, complicating efforts to find the culprit.

Leo’s story is a stark reminder of the cruelty some animals face but also highlights the extraordinary kindness that arises to save them.

Thanks to the care and love of many, Leo is now safe at home, more treasured than ever by his grateful family.