Moose’s story is a powerful reminder that shelter dogs are never defined by what they have endured before. Carrying a bullet still lodged in her lung and a past marked by hardship, this loving Pit Bull wanted nothing more than to befriend everyone she met.
Sadly, she was not given the opportunity to show that side of herself. Her time was nearly up, and she had been placed on the euthanasia list until a last minute opening at the shelter gave her another chance.
A Timely Intervention
Micky, who would go on to become Moose’s forever guardian, heard about the dog’s situation just in time.
When she learned that Moose was scheduled for euthanasia, she didn’t hesitate to act.
Micky immediately submitted her adoption application.
Moose, who was in Houston, Texas, boarded a transport bus and made the journey to Virginia to meet her new family.
What made Moose’s situation even more heartbreaking was the reason listed for her potential euthanasia: she had barked at another dog.
“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,” Micky told GeoBeats Animals.
Moose’s history also included physical trauma. She had been shot, had heartworms, and had gone through an abortion.
“She had been shot (I only know this because we saw the bullet on her X-rays, it can’t be removed but multiple vets have said it does not affect her or put her in danger), had heartworms and was treated when I got her, and had an abortion,” Micky shared on Instagram.
Despite the pain and stigma she had faced, Moose’s spirit remained strong. Micky was determined to give her the life she truly deserved.
“I’m shocked that this dog, considering how terrible her first year of life was, wants to be everyone’s best friend,” Micky said.
A Gentle Soul With So Much To Give
Micky had expected Moose to require extensive rehabilitation, but to her surprise, Moose was far from difficult.
Her behavior at home suggested that she had once been part of a family. She was fully potty trained and adapted easily to household routines.
Her calm nature stood in stark contrast to the label she had almost been given, and Micky quickly realized she had a much softer side than initially thought.
“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,” Micky added.
A Future As A Service Dog
Micky, who lives with mobility challenges, needed a certified therapy dog, and Moose’s intuitive nature made her a perfect candidate.
“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,” explains Micky.
Moose is now undergoing OFA certification, and her future as a therapy dog looks bright. She has been part of Micky’s life for over a year and a half, and their bond continues to grow stronger.
Together, they share a life filled with adventure, love, and healing.