Meet Oso

Hi I’m Oso!!! I am a Rottie-Chow mix. My name means "bear" in Spanish. My foster mom says I looked like an old grisly bear and now I am a soft, fluffy, and cuddly teddy bear. My journey is unfolding into a story of healing, hope, love, and the search for a permanent home with my very own family. The first day of the rest of my life. On 2/2/24 my foster family found me wandering around a gas station. I felt invisible. I know lots of humans saw me asking for help, but they just turned away. I started to wonder if I even existed. Then it happened I realized a person looking AT me. She was moving her mouth but I couldn’t hear anything. Thankfully she squatted down and was making hand gestures like she was actually calling me. I thought “Could it be possible that she actually sees me AND wants me to go to her?“ She seemed friendly, so I starting walking towards her, but it took a minute. I had a very hard time moving. My legs were painfully bound by my dirty and knotted fur. Each step I tried to take hurt terribly. Regardless, I put on my most brave and handsome smile, and kept moving. Secretly, I was worried that when I got closer and she really saw me (and smelled me) she would also turn away like the others. When I finally got to her, she reached out and touched me. I know by the soft look in her eyes and the gentle touch of her hands I was finally safe. That was the moment I knew I would never have to look back at the life I bravely broke free from and desperately needed to forget. My past. My skeletal frame covered by heavily matted fur gives testament of a lifetime of deprivation and heartbreak. My foster mom discovered an old injury, a healed broken rib, that told her of the pains I’ve had to endure. The chain hanging heavily from my neck spoke of the years I spent tied up, only dreaming of running in open fields. It also is proof that I was brave and found the strength to break away in search of freedom and a life I knew existed and wanted so badly. I am resilient. Despite my tribulations, my spirit has never waned. At heart I am youthful, reflecting the playfulness of the puppy I never really got to be. My energy manifests in bursts of joy but is quickly followed by long serene naps. What makes me truly special, aside from my resilience, is a very unique trait that captures the hearts of those I meet. One my foster family has fallen in love with from day one. My adorably unforgettable nose and a smile that's all my own! I have cleft lip, but it doesn’t bother me. I think it makes me extra special. My journey as a hearing impaired dog hasn't dampened my spirit; it's a part of what makes me, OSO! I’m not ashamed, I am proud. I’m HAPPY! Happy all the time! I have HOPE! Under the care of my loving foster home, my life has taken a turn for the better. Each day is a step towards recovery, gaining weight, and building the strength that was once stripped from me. My health, once a concern, now shines brightly with a clean bill, including a heartworm-negative status, proving that I am on my path to not just surviving, but thriving. My dream is simple: a forever home where the grass under my paws and the sun overhead are daily joys. A secure yard for my adventures, and a family that appreciates quiet companionship as much as I do. Though I might not seek out couch cuddles, being by your side, engaged in play or exploration, is where I find my happiness. The family I imagine will understand my journey, offering guidance and strength as I continue to grow in spirit and in health. My ideal human companions will be ready to continue the work of building my confidence and manners, especially as I navigate my newfound interests in toys and the company of other confident dogs. I’m making my mind up about small pup and cats, but I am VERY sure I love to chase squirrels. My foster family said there is perfect home for me, because I’m “the goodest boy ever.” I am Oso, a survivor, a friend, and a gentle soul seeking a place where I can embrace being loved and the gift of loving in return. My adoption fee is $100 locally in Houston, TX or $250 out of state (includes health certificate and travel fee). I am up to date on shots, neutered and microchipped. Fill out an application at https://toolkit.rescuegroups.org/of/f?c=SQYPSGVQ