Pets can be part of your family, so they need to be treated well. But sadly, it is not true with a 3-year-old German Shepherd dog named Rocco. The poor dog was abandoned at Dallas Animal Services in Texas because his owners were having a baby and no longer wanted him.
Staff at the shelter told us that Rocco was underweight, timid, and very wary of adults. Sitting hunched over in the corner of a kennel, he shook with fear. His brown eyes were sad and empty because he realized that his owner had left him behind.
Seeing how gentle and terrified Rocco was, a kind woman shared a video of him online to help him find a good home. The animal shelter also posted a photo of Rocco on Facebook page in the hope that someone would adopt him and give him a forever home.
Thankfully, Preethi Pillaipakkam, an animal lover and a foster through DFW German Shepherd Rescue, offered to help him right away. Preethi was surprised that Rocco had been abandoned because of a new baby.
During the first few days at his foster home, Rocco remained shy and a bit worried. But with the help of Pillaipakkam and her own dog, the sweet dog is becoming more and more outgoing. We are glad to know that he is growing happier and more confident by the day.
“He slowly started exploring the house,” Pillaipakkam said. “He loves the couches and his doggy beds, and he likes squeaky toys and tennis balls. He is a really good fetcher.”
Pillaipakkam has also created an Instagram account for Rocco to share updates on his story. She hopes Rocco will inspire others to adopt large-breed dogs, as they are often dumped at shelters due to changes in their owner’s living or family situation.
Welcoming a new baby into your family is big, fantastic news that deserves to be one of the best things in the world. However, don’t forget your beloved pets when you have a baby. Your pets are also members of your family. They deserve to be treated with warmth and respect.
Finally, this sweet and gentle dog gets the loving home he deserves. Please share this story with your friends to wish Rocco and his new family all happiness in the future.
h/t: The Dodo