Moose is living proof that shelter dogs are far from being “bad dogs.”
Despite suffering through a heartbreaking start in life, including a bullet wound in her lung—this sweet Pittie had just one goal: to love everyone she met.
But time was running out. With no one stepping up to adopt her, Moose was scheduled to be euthanized—until, just one day before it was too late, a woman named Micky saw her story and changed everything.
It was a single extra kennel space that bought Moose enough time to be saved—and ultimately transformed her entire life.
Breaking Through Misconceptions
Micky came across Moose’s profile at just the right moment. When she learned that this affectionate pup was on the verge of being put down, she didn’t hesitate for a second—she submitted her adoption application immediately.
Moose made the journey from Houston, Texas to Virginia on a transport bus, arriving five days later to meet the woman who would become her hero.
What’s most heartbreaking is the reason Moose was listed for “behavioral euthanasia”—all because she 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.
On top of that, Moose had already endured more than her fair share of pain—she’d 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 effect her or put her in danger), had heartworms & was treated when I got her, and had an abortion,” Micky explained on Instagram.
She was harshly mislabeled, misunderstood, and mistreated—but all of that was about to change.
“I’m shocked that this dog, considering how terrible her first year of life was, wants to be everyone’s best friend,” Micky said.
Moose Turned Out To Be A Total Lovebug
Although Micky braced herself for potential challenges, Moose quickly proved to be a dream dog. It didn’t take long for Micky to realize she must have had a previous owner—she was perfectly potty trained and seemed to understand house rules from day one.
She had a calm, affectionate temperament—far from the “behavioral risk” label she’d been unfairly given.
Moose adored people and other dogs alike, and she picked up new things quickly. Inspired by her gentle nature, Micky began training her to become a therapy dog.
“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 shared.
A Future Therapy Dog In The Making
Living with mobility challenges, Micky had been looking for a support companion—and Moose turned out to be the perfect fit. With her incredible sensitivity and awareness, it was clear that she had a natural gift.
“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,” said Micky.
Moose is currently working toward her OFA certificatations, and with her progress so far, there’s no doubt she’ll make an incredible therapy dog.
For the past year and a half, Moose has been a cherished member of Micky’s family. The bond they’ve formed is unbreakable, and together they continue to share adventures and joy every single day.