Abused dog from Albania finds safety in Raleigh through Freedom Ride Rescue

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- An Albanian animal shelter's plea for help for an abused dog led to an international rescue effort that brought the small mixed breed pup to Raleigh on Monday.

The dog, now named Leka, is a 5-year-old, 13-pound chihuahua-pug mix. He arrived at his new foster home through Freedom Ride Rescue, a Raleigh-based nonprofit. He is already neutered, microchipped and equipped with a dog passport.

Leka's name carries cultural significance in Albania. It is a traditional masculine name, a short form of Alexander, and also the name of the Albanian currency, the lek - a word associated with strength.

"Leka has endured more than any dog ever should," Freedom Ride Rescue founder Mollie Doll said. "His past includes physical abuse by his former owners. He was kicked, slammed into walls, forced to live in mud and often left without regular food. After that, he survived seven months on the streets."

Leka's demeanor changed when workers at a local salon took him in and fed him. An Albanian rescue group later intervened and ensured he received full veterinary care.

"Despite everything he has been through, Leka has a sweet soul when he feels safe," Doll said. "He needs a quiet, stable home where he can decompress and finally experience the life he has always deserved. Once he understands he will not be hurt, he opens up and seeks affection, love and play time."

Leka is friendly with dogs and cats, enjoys soft dog beds and walks well on a leash, she said.

His rescue was coordinated with Neuse River Golden Retriever Rescue, which already had a trip planned to Albania to assist two golden retrievers. After the Albanian shelter requested help for Leka due to his abuse history, a Neuse River volunteer contacted Freedom Ride Rescue, which quickly secured a foster home.