Challenging the Stigma: Proving Shelter Dogs Deserve a Chance
Moose’s remarkable story stands as a powerful testament to the fact that shelter dogs are far from being inherently “bad” or beyond redemption. Despite a harrowing start to life, marked by a bullet lodged in her lung and the undeniable hardship of abandonment, this adorable Pittie possessed an unwavering spirit and a singular, heartwarming desire: to be everyone’s best friend. Tragically, the very people who could have offered her a loving home seemed unwilling to look beyond her breed or her circumstances, and Moose found herself on the brink of being euthanized, just one day away from a tragic end. It was, quite literally, the chance availability of an extra kennel that inadvertently prolonged her fate, ultimately paving the way for a miraculous rescue and a second chance at life.
A Timely Intervention: A Savior Steps In Against the Odds
Moose’s current owner, Micky, stumbled upon this lovely dog’s story just in the nick of time. Upon realizing that the sweet Pittie was scheduled to be euthanized imminently, Micky didn’t hesitate for a single moment. Her heartstrings tugged by Moose’s plight, she immediately submitted an adoption application, her intuition telling her that this dog deserved a fighting chance. Moose was soon put on a transport bus from Houston, Texas, and five long days later, she finally met her savior in the welcoming state of Virginia. The most heartbreaking aspect of Moose’s near-demise was the unjustifiable reason behind her “behavioral euthanasia” label: she had reportedly barked at another dog. As Micky poignantly shared with GeoBeats Animals, “It’s really sad because she was behavioral euthanasia and the only thing I saw in all of her staff notes was that she barked at another dog.” Adding to the weight of her past trauma, Moose had also been shot at some point, the bullet still lodged in her lung (deemed irremovable but not currently posing a threat according to multiple veterinarians), had suffered from heartworms (which were successfully treated after Micky adopted her), and had undergone an abortion. Despite enduring such immense physical and emotional hardship in her first year of life, Moose was unfairly stigmatized and deemed “unadoptable.” However, Micky was determined to look beyond the labels and provide this resilient dog with the opportunity to build a brand-new life filled with love and security. Reflecting on Moose’s incredible spirit, Micky marveled, “I’m shocked that this dog, considering how terrible her first year of life was, wants to be everyone’s best friend.”
A Gentle Soul Revealed: Shattering Misconceptions
Despite the expectation that Moose might require significant rehabilitation and patience, this paw-dorable girl proved to be the complete opposite of what Micky had anticipated. Observing Moose’s behavior within the home, Micky quickly realized that she had likely had a previous owner, as she was perfectly potty trained and displayed a clear understanding of household rules and boundaries. Her temperament was remarkably sweet and gentle, a stark contrast to the “behavioral euthanasia” label that had almost sealed her fate. As Micky affectionately described on Instagram, Moose was simply a “lovebug,” eager to shower affection on everyone she met. Moose displayed a natural affinity for both people and other dogs, and her intelligence shone through as she quickly learned new things. Recognizing Moose’s exceptional temperament and her innate desire to connect with others, Micky was inspired to pursue an ambitious goal: training Moose to become a certified therapy dog. As Micky enthusiastically shared, “Despite all of this she has been the best girl ever and is learning more each day. She has come so far and was the best thing that could have happened to me.”
A Purpose in Healing: Training a Multipurpose Service Pittie
As someone living with mobility issues, Micky had a genuine need for a certified therapy dog to provide assistance and companionship. Moose, with her remarkably intuitive nature and deep desire to connect, seemed like the ideal candidate for this important role. Micky recognized Moose’s inherent ability to sense her emotional and physical needs, a quality that solidified her decision to pursue therapy dog training. As Micky explained, “Usually, she sleeps by my legs, but if I’m having a flare, and really, really don’t feel good, she’ll sleep up by my head,” illustrating Moose’s uncanny ability to provide comfort and support precisely when it is needed most. At present, Moose is diligently working towards obtaining her OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) certifications, a crucial step in the therapy dog certification process. There is a strong sense of optimism that this extraordinary shelter girl, who was once deemed “unadoptable,” will indeed blossom into a wonderful and invaluable therapy dog, using her gentle spirit and intuitive nature to bring comfort and healing to others. Moose has now been a cherished member of Micky’s family for nearly a year and a half, and the bond between them has grown stronger with each passing day. This remarkable duo is practically inseparable, embarking on beautiful adventures together and proving that even the most challenging beginnings can lead to the most heartwarming and purposeful futures.
