January 2023 in Southeast Los Angeles was a time and place that many would consider the far edge of nowhere. Encampments of unhoused people stretched throughout the area, with makeshift shelters housing both humans and animals. Among these residents was Reena, a woman with a troubled past but a good heart, who found herself in a distressing situation with her young Doberman mix, Luna, and her litter of puppies.
The story of the Dog Lady, as Lori Weise was known in these parts, was not your typical pet tale. Lori, the head of Downtown Dog Rescue, had been coming to this neighborhood for a year, offering assistance to the residents and their pets. Reena, despite her struggles with drug use and a tumultuous relationship, had a genuine love for her animals. When one of Luna’s puppies got into meth and was on the brink of death, Reena turned to Lori for help.
The scene at Reena’s trailer was one of squalor and despair, with piles of garbage and a pervasive stench of decay. Despite the challenging circumstances, Lori remained committed to helping the animals in need in this neglected community. She understood that gaining the trust of the residents and making a lasting impact required patience and compassion.
As Lori took the sick puppy to the vet, leaving behind the two remaining ones with Reena, she was acutely aware of the dangers lurking in the neighborhood. Gangs controlled the drug trade and violence was a constant threat. Yet, Lori’s dedication to her mission as the Dog Lady never wavered. She knew that her presence and support were making a difference, one animal at a time.
The narrative of rescue and no kill movements had become a dominant theme in the world of animal welfare. The idea of saving animals from suffering at the hands of neglectful humans had taken root in the mainstream consciousness. However, Lori’s work with the forgotten people and pets of South LA and Compton challenged this simplistic narrative. Her experiences showed the complexity of the issues faced by low-income and homeless pet owners, and the importance of understanding their unique struggles.
In a world where heroes and villains were often portrayed in black and white terms, Lori’s story was a reminder of the shades of gray that existed in real life. Her dedication to helping those in need, regardless of the challenges and dangers she faced, was a testament to the power of compassion and empathy. The Dog Lady’s work was not just about saving animals, but about building relationships and creating a sense of community in the most unlikely of places.
As we reflect on the story of January 2023 in Southeast Los Angeles, we are reminded that true change often begins with small acts of kindness and understanding. Lori Weise, the Dog Lady, showed us that by reaching out to those in need, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of both people and animals.