New York City Police Department (NYPD) officers from the Central Park Precinct took time off from their regular beat to help one hard-luck pup find “the one” in time for Valentine’s Day. For three-year-old Orson, “the one” isn’t necessarily a perfect person, but instead a home and a family who can provide the love Orson has been searching for. The NYPD officers—who are all animal cruelty liaisons to the ASPCA—played matchmaker for the morning and escorted Orson to places in Manhattan where he could have a chance at meeting his perfect match.

After a checking in at the Central Park Precinct, Sergeant Maria Sexton of Patrol Borough Manhattan North, who was honored by the ASPCA in 2016, alongside Officers Sara Moran and John Riquelme of the Central Park Precinct, took Orson out and about to a few local spots where human dating coaches suggest meeting someone. Suggested spots included a park, coffee shop and bookstore, all in hopes that somewhere along the way, Orson might encounter a potential adopter.  

We first met Orson under tragic circumstances in late 2016. The lovable dog was rescued by NYPD officers along with several other dogs from the basement of a South Bronx building as part of an alleged dog fighting case. After his arrival to the ASPCA, Orson received medical treatment at the ASPCA Animal Hospital’s Animal Recovery Center, and later spent time at the Canine Annex for Recovery and Enrichment before being made available for adoption in December 2017—more than one year later. 

Now Orson is at at the ASPCA Adoption Center, where he has quickly became a staff favorite due to his happy demeanor, quickness to make new friends and fondness for any kind of snack. 

“Orson is an affectionate dog who is eager to leave the abuse of his past behind and become a loving companion,” says Howard Lawrence, Vice President of Humane Law Enforcement at the ASPCA. “We’re thankful to the NYPD officers for their dedication to helping dogs like Orson find safe, loving homes, and encourage everyone out celebrating on Valentine’s Day to consider opening their homes to the millions of shelter animals nationwide looking for love, too.”

Now in its fifth year, the NYPD/ASPCA partnership continues to have a considerable positive impact for New York City’s vulnerable animals like Orson. We are incredibly grateful to work in tandem with dedicated officers like Sergeant Sexton, Officer Moran and Officer Riquelme, who work to not only end cruelty, but to help us ensure that animals affected by abuse get every opportunity to become beloved pets.

As for Orson? He’s still waiting on the right adopter to come along and give him his second chance at love. If you’re interested in adopting this sweet boy, you can read more about him here, call (212) 876-7700 ext. 4120 or visit the ASPCA Adoption Center at 424 E. 92nd Street, New York, New York.