Tommy

CATTLEDOG/PITBULL MIX

• From: Riverside, California

• Adopted: 2021

In August 2021, we heard about a dog hoarding case involving over 80 dogs seized by Riverside County Animal Services. These poor souls had endured unimaginable conditions, surviving on a diet of spaghetti served in large kiddy pools.

Among them was a deaf white dog, initially named “Gramps.” He moved with the weight of years, resembling an old, decrepit soul. Extensive media coverage showed him confined to a small crate or kennel, deprived of the space to move freely. When he arrived at our sanctuary, he could barely walk, his head hanging low in pain. That’s when we discovered his mouth was aching with infected teeth, coated in black plaque.

Years of confinement in cramped quarters had taken a toll on Tommy’s strength, and the spaghetti diet had painfully decayed his teeth. We gave him a new name - Tommy - and watched in awe as he flourished. Many of his painful teeth were removed, and Tommy’s transformation began.

After a few months of learning to keep up with the other sanctuary dogs, Tommy broke free from his shell. We even had his hearing tested, just to be sure, because there were moments when he seemed to respond to our calls. It turns out that Tommy had an uncanny way of understanding us despite his deafness!

These days, you’ll find Tommy in some unexpected places for nap time, sneaking into the pantry to steal bagels, and playfully chasing after his fellow furry companions (sometimes causing a bit of mischief, especially with Dodger).

Tommy’s journey is a testament to the incredible resilience of animals. If you’d like to be a part of Tommy’s ongoing journey, please considering being his sponsor.