My Story
One year ago this week, DeSoto came into our lives, emaciated and frail. His bones showing through his skin, only leaving us wondering what he went through. DeSoto arrived with another dog who found a forever home last summer. The story we were told about them being "just found" wasn’t truthful. They had been used for breeding and then no longer needed. We soon discovered that DeSoto’s severe thinness wasn’t just from neglect; it was due to an underlying medical condition that silently robbed him of his weight. Despite his past, DeSoto's spirit has remained unbroken. He is a people-loving dog, affectionate, goofy, and absolutely sweetheart. He’s a perfect blend of playful and calm, always ready to share his love with anyone.
When DeSoto first went with one of our amazing fosters, he was skin and bones. He frequently vomited and suffered from diarrhea. After multiple vet visits, he was diagnosed with Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI), a condition where he can’t properly digest food or absorb nutrients. With the right diet and digestive enzymes, DeSoto’s symptoms improved, but gaining weight was a challenge. Even now, while he has gained some weight, he will require these digestive enzymes for the rest of his life.
DeSoto is an incredibly good-natured dog. He is vocal, often singing for his supper with a bark. DeSoto has earned the trust of his foster’s cats faster than any other dog. He has remarkable patience. He loves car rides and gets very excited He’s very social with other dogs, only growling or barking to stop bad behavior when absolutely necessary. He’s been excellent with cats and small animals, even walking away when told to leave an opossum he encountered the yard.
He’s generally quiet but will bark if he hears a noise when he’s alone. He’s very adaptable to work schedules, happily going into his crate when needed. He loves chasing and fetching balls but prefers to drop them nearby rather than bring them back. He’s very treat-motivated and usually takes treats gently or catches them if tossed.
Even with his condition, he remains a great dog, full of love and potential. He might not be the brightest bulb, but he’s far from the dullest, with a stubborn streak that proper obedience training will surely improve. DeSoto deserves a forever home where he can feel safe, loved, and cared for. He’s been waiting for a year, and it’s time for him to find his family. Please share his story, consider opening your home to him, and help us find DeSoto the loving home he desperately needs.
If you are interested in Desoto, send us a message!