Shelter workers always aim to make life as comfortable as possible for their animals, but it’s not always easy.
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A Pup Finds His Chill
The main character of our tale, a seven-year-old dog named Zappa, had a rough start. Found alone in a Las Vegas apartment, he ended up at The Animal Foundation in Nevada. Adjusting to the noisy environment of the shelter was tough for him.
Kelsey Pizzi from the shelter explained, “Shelters can feel weird and stressful for dogs. It’s hard to see their true selves in such a setting.” She noted that many dogs appear sad and anxious in kennels, which doesn’t really reflect who they are.
Despite the challenges, Zappa quickly became a favorite among the shelter staff, who were particularly charmed by his uniquely large ears.
A Day to Remember
The shelter team couldn’t bear seeing Zappa uncomfortable, so they arranged a day out for him with a foster carer, knowing it might help him open up.
“Foster outings are wonderful because they show us what a dog is really like outside the shelter,” said a team member. That’s exactly what happened with Zappa.
His outing included a hike at Mount Charlton, which revealed his playful and relaxed side. His foster carer reported, “Zappa did great in the car and was an energetic, yet well-behaved hiking companion.”
The day was filled with activities, and after the hike, Zappa was treated to doggie ice cream, attracting affection and praise from children at the shop. He proved to be a patient dog, even if he played up his tricks to get extra belly rubs.
Finding a Forever Home
Refreshed from his day out, Zappa returned to the shelter transformed and ready to charm potential adopters. It wasn’t long before Tiffanie walked in, met Zappa, and it was love at first sight. She knew instantly that he was the dog for her.
Now, Zappa and Tiffanie are inseparable, enjoying daily companionship, regular belly rubs, and the occasional treat of ice cream.
