All the animals at the Tallahassee Animal Services Center (TASC) are special, but some need a little extra TLC. Jake was looking for a companion and had met several other dogs before noticing Ozzy sitting quietly in one of the kennels. Jake reminisced, “One big, calm, brindle dog with folded ears and a curly tail in the back of the shelter immediately caught my attention.” Their first face-to-face meeting established the connection Jake was looking for, and he decided Ozzy was the one.
Unfortunately, before Ozzy could move into his new forever home, the veterinarian at the TASC discovered a mass in his neck. They weren’t sure if it was scar tissue or something worse, and they informed Jake of the situation. Surgery was needed to remove the mass, and it would be expensive. In addition to needing throat surgery, Ozzy was also heartworm positive.
That’s when the Animal Shelter Foundation (ASF) stepped up and offered to cover the cost of the surgery and heartworm treatment. Jake was thrilled as this meant that he could focus on helping Ozzy recover without having to worry about paying for an unplanned expense.
Through donations from wonderful supporters, the entire cost of the surgery and treatment was covered. Ozzy’s surgery was successful and the biopsy showed that the mass was scar tissue rather than cancer. Ozzy had a short recovery period but is now adapting to his new home and is living a happy, healthy life.
Jake shares, “You never know what these animals have been through before they arrive at the shelter. It takes time for their personalities to come out, and they may come with a few challenges along the way. If you’re willing to give them patience, compassion, and consistency, they’ll reward you with a bond that’s hard to put into words.”
Ozzy’s personality is now beginning to shine and he’s convinced he’s a 70 pound lap dog.
Jake notes that, “ASF gave Ozzy the opportunity to have a healthy future. He’s become my best friend and has brought so much joy into my life. Adopting him is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Thank you again to everyone at the Animal Shelter Foundation for giving Ozzy the chance to have that life.”
You can support the mission of the Animal Shelter Foundation by making a tax-deductible donation with a one-time gift or by becoming a Lifesaver Circle monthly donor. You can make more happy endings possible.
