On an otherwise normal workday, R.J., a mechanic, saved a life. He was working at a Midas auto shop in Shakopee, Minnesota when he heard something thumping coming from the  dumpster nearby. His first thought was that it was just a raccoon looking for food but felt like he should investigate anyway.

Thanks to R.J.’s inquisitiveness, a maltreated  puppy who was close to being forgotten in a trash can was saved. The pup is now living their best life possible and it’s all thanks to R.J.’s keen eye.

R.J.’s suspicions were aroused when he heard a knocking noise coming from inside the dumpster. When he took a look, he observed a backpack shifting slightly, but there was no other sound. So R.J., being cautious, opened the bag slowly—to find an adorable puppy staring back at him wide-eyed.

R.J. said, “When I opened the door, the dog slowly lifted its head and looked at me with sad eyes. I was so surprised that all I could do was stand there.”

Luckily, R.J. found the puppy just in time – he had been thrown in the dumpster after trash pickup and was zipped up inside a hot backpack with no food or water. R.J.’s quick thinking saved the pup’s life, and he decided to name him Midas because, as he said, “the dog needed a name to be taken to the vet.”

Midas is currently being treated for a broken jaw and a bacterial infection in his lungs, both of which the vet staff confirmed as signs of abuse.

After taking his new  puppy to the vet, R.J. falls in love and plans to adopt him if all goes well; However, he stated that if Midas is stolen and has a kind owner, he will give him up–but only with concrete evidence.

The Shakopee Police Department urges  dog parents not to abandon their dogs in such callous fashion. There are many more humane options available for rehoming a dog, like taking them to a shelter or rescue organization.

The police department urges pet owners who need to surrender their animals to do so humanely, as this story could have ended much differently. With social media and the internet at our fingertips, there is no shortage of options for finding a person willing to rehome your pet. Please be kind to our animal friends!

Midas was abandoned in a backpack with only a fake grill and some plastic bags. His exact story is unknown, but he’s safe now with a loving family who will take care of him. Though he started his day unloved and alone, things could not have ended more perfectly for Midas!