On a regular street patrol in Los Angeles, officers Alejandro Mercado and Tavera of the LAPD Hollywood Division experienced a heartwarming encounter that changed a tiny life forever. On October 5, 2019, while they carried out their routine duties, something small, brown, and irresistibly cute began to follow them. It was a chocolate-colored puppy, barely old enough to survive on his own.
The little stray had been wandering the streets, desperately hoping someone would notice him. The moment he saw the officers, he began trailing behind, pleading with his eyes and tiny paws for help. He wasn’t just looking for food—he was looking for love and safety.
From Street to Station
Touched by his trust, the officers decided to help. They named the puppy Hobart, after Hobart Boulevard, where they found him. Realizing how young and fragile he was, they couldn’t leave him behind. So, they gently scooped him up and brought him back to the police station.
What followed was pure magic. Hobart instantly bonded with Officer Mercado. Wherever Mercado went, Hobart followed. The adorable connection between them melted everyone’s hearts. The LAPD Hollywood Division captured this moment on video and shared it online, captioning it, “Hobart won’t leave Officer Mercado’s side!! 🥺 #HollywoodHobart.”
A Social Media Star Is Born
During the ride to the station, Hobart snuggled into Officer Tavera’s lap, gazing lovingly at his rescuers. The tiny pup knew he was safe. Once at the station, Hobart received an honorary K-9 title, and everyone quickly grew attached to this furry new friend.
However, a police station isn’t the best home for a young puppy. He needed consistent care and a nurturing environment. That’s when the officers reached out to the Ghetto Rescue FFoundation (GRFF), a local rescue group known for its compassion.
A Viral Video and a Loving Decision
GRFF took Hobart in, providing him with veterinary care and vaccinations. The plan was to place him up for adoption. But the world had other ideas. The video of Hobart clinging to Officer Mercado went viral, and thousands of people urged Mercado to adopt him.
Behind the scenes, something beautiful was already unfolding. Officer Mercado had sent a photo of Hobart to his wife, Quincy Hutchison. The moment she saw his tiny face, she fell in love. Without hesitation, she asked her husband to bring him home.
Happily Ever After
Just days later, the LAPD Hollywood Division shared an exciting update: “A lot of you have been asking what Hobart is up to these days… you will be happy to know Officer Mercado has adopted him, and he is now living the good life with Mercado and his family!”
The news brought joy to everyone who followed Hobart’s story. One fan commented, “These two are definitely meant to be together! Congrats on your new home, Hobart!”
A Home Full of Love
A few months after the adoption, GRFF posted another heartwarming update. Hobart, now thriving in his new home, had fully settled in. He shared the house with several rescue dogs and even a police K-9. The once-abandoned puppy had found the perfect family.
“Update on Hobart (GRFF name Fidzgit): he’s the most loving and lively puppy. He loves all of his puppy cousins, and will chew on his toys for hours. He’s still learning potty training and loves the outdoors and playtime in the grass!”
Meant to Be
Hobart’s story is a beautiful reminder of how a moment of kindness can change a life. From a lonely street in Los Angeles to a home filled with love, Hobart’s journey shows that sometimes, fate works in the most wonderful ways.
The GRFF summed it up perfectly: “Looks like he hit the jackpot that day when he was ‘arrested’ for loitering and being too cute.”
Follow Hobart’s ongoing adventures with his forever family on Instagram: @lapd_hobart.
