Chowder

CORG/CHOW/LAB MIX

• From: Tucson, Arizona

• Adopted: 2022

Chowder, our Chow mix, found himself at the Pima Animal Care Center in Tucson, Arizona during the Christmas season in 2021. Several of his features were a reminder of dogs we’d loved before and stirred memories of Teddy, Kovi, and Chicharron. Rocky, our 17-year-old Cattle Dog, also hailed from PACC.

We decided to give Chowder a second chance, driven by a massive growth hanging from his abdomen. However, it turned out that Chowder had more health challenges to conquer: rotten teeth, a persistent yeast infection, allergies, thyroid issues, eye dryness and a unique hairless tail reminiscent of a possum’s.

His skin condition required months of dedicated care, including medications, sprays, and medicated baths. Sadly, this is an ongoing battle for him every year. Chowder’s ongoing treatments include thyroid medication, ointment for his left eye to prevent dryness, and regular medicated baths to keep his skin healthy.

Chowder’s journey with us has spanned 20 months. Initially, he was standoffish and would hide in the garage and only venturing out for bathroom breaks. Gradually, he began to explore our sanctuary, but he kept his distance from volunteers and visitors. In recent weeks, Chowder has started approaching the gate to greet our volunteers, signaling a newfound trust and connection.

Chowder is our grumpy old man who takes his role of “policing” Dodger quite seriously. He is slowly but surely coming into his own, proving it’s never too late for a dog to find their place in the world.