Toothless, a ten-year-old Chihuahua, had been living in a rundown trailer with lots of other dogs when the Houston Humane Society found him.
His life changed when Maddie, who loves to help older dogs, decided to take care of him.
Gentle Care Changes Everything
Toothless hadn’t been around people much, so he was scared at first.
But when Maddie, who works at the shelter, took him home to foster, he began to see that humans could be kind.
“I remember the first night I brought him home,” Maddie shares.
“I held him close and saw the confusion in his face—he was discovering what being loved felt like for the first time.”
A New Friend
The next day, Toothless was like a different dog. He wanted Maddie to hold him, which was a big change from how shy he had been.
Trust Grows
Day by day, Toothless started to trust more. He loved to be with Maddie all the time, either sitting by her feet or in her arms.
“Whenever I put him down, he scratches at my leg, as if to ask, ‘Mom, why aren’t you holding me?'” Maddie explains.
Joining the Pack
Toothless started enjoying life, playing with toys, and running around happily. He also got close to his new dog friend, Sunshine, and they quickly became best buddies.
Leaving the Past Behind
Even though he’s got a new loving home, Toothless sometimes remembers his old life. He’s protective of Maddie, especially around people he doesn’t know well.
Getting Better Every Day
Toothless is old and had some health problems, but now he’s getting the treatment he needs and doing much better.
He even has a following on social media, where people love seeing his progress.
Together We Can Make a Difference
Maddie hopes that by sharing Toothless’s story, more people will be moved to adopt dogs, especially older ones.
“Adopting a dog like Toothless is the best love you will ever know,” she says.
Toothless shows us what can happen when we give a little love and care.
