When a compassionate family spotted a tall, brown pup with a distinctive black muzzle roaming the streets of Camarillo, California, they couldn’t turn away. They scooped him up, took him home, and showered him with kindness.
The family cared for this gentle giant, and their two other dogs, as well as the children, welcomed him with open arms.
Though he settled in quickly, they assumed he might belong to someone, so they searched diligently for his owners, only to come up empty-handed.
After a week under their roof, hopeful yet realistic, they brought him to Ventura County Animal Services, trusting the shelter to find him a forever home worthy of his size and spirit.
Beginning Of A Shelter Life
The moment he arrived at the Camarillo shelter, his surrendering family’s hopes were rewarded. He immediately won over the staff with his gentle nature and affectionate mannerisms.
“When he arrived, the staff who was the first to meet him said that he was seeking affection. He was leaning on the staff member, licking his hand, really friendly off the bat…,” Jules Hooper, marketing specialist at Ventura County Animal Services, told The Dodo.
Clocking in at around 180 pounds, this Great Dane ranked among the largest dogs ever housed at the facility.
When he stands on his hind legs, he towers over most of his caregivers, as if he’s craving hugs and attention from everyone around.
The staff affectionately nicknamed him Scooby Doo, a nod to his cartoon look-alike appearance.
Scooby Doo’s Wish Comes True
Scooby Doo longed for a family who could match his energy and help refine his manners. At two years old, he was still a bundle of enthusiasm that needed patience, structure, and exercise.
Scooby Doo tends to pull on the leash. He sometimes pulls toward people because it is his way of asking for cuddles.
“He is strong and he does pull quite a bit on the leash… He loves people, so sometimes he’ll try to pull towards people because he’ll get pets and love,” Hooper added.
When Ventura County Animal Services shared Scooby Doo’s story on social media, it captured hearts far and wide. Within days, the perfect match appeared, his future mom.
Scooby Doo could hardly contain his joy as his new owner arrived to bring him home.
Although Scooby Doo’s story ended in triumph, more than a hundred large dogs still wait at Camarillo shelter for a chance at a loving home or a temporary foster stay.
If you have room in your home and heart for a big dog, visit Ventura County Animal Services and see who’s waiting to be your next best friend.