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When Staff Learned This Dog Was Put On The List, They Called Everyone They Knew

By: Julie Hunt
Julie Hunt is an avid dog lover and writer for iHeartDogs.com, and has a background as a veterinary technician. She rescued a beautiful former bait dog named Rory.Read more
| November 4, 2024

Bobby’s world turned upside down when his family surrendered him to a shelter in Los Angeles, California. The warmth and comfort of a home were suddenly replaced with the cold, hard surface of a small kennel. Yet, despite his loss, Bobby’s spirit remained bright. This gentle, affectionate dog, who adored belly rubs, quickly became a favorite among the shelter staff. He charmed everyone with his sweet demeanor, but somehow, potential adopters overlooked him. Bobby longed for love, but his hopeful heart was met with constant disappointment.

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After a year at the shelter, Bobby’s situation took a grim turn when he was added to the euthanasia list. The staff and volunteers, who adored him, were heartbroken. They couldn’t fathom losing the dog who had brought so much joy to their days. At ten years old, Bobby continued to hold on to hope, blissfully unaware that he only had two weeks left.

Determined to give him a fighting chance, staff and volunteers worked tirelessly to share his story and find him a new home. One day, Shira Scott Astrof, founder of The Animal Rescue Mission in West Hollywood, received a message about Bobby’s plight. When she learned that he was on the euthanasia list, she rushed to the shelter to meet him.

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When Bobby saw Astrof for the first time, there was an instant connection. He seemed to understand she was there to help. Astrof was taken with him right away. “The second I met him, it was like he knew that I was there for him. He was on his back getting belly rubs, and I just fell in love with him within a second,” Astrof told GeoBeats Animals. She assured him that he was safe now and nothing bad would happen.

During her visits, Astrof couldn’t understand why Bobby was considered a safety risk. She saw firsthand that he had no behavioral issues. On the contrary, he was a loving, cuddly dog who craved affection. With the help of a foster, Astrof secured Bobby’s release from the shelter.

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The day Bobby walked out, his joy was undeniable—tail wagging, mouth wide in a smile. His rescuer kissed him, promising him a life full of love. Due to limited activity and plentiful food at the shelter, Bobby had gained significant weight. But with his newfound freedom, he embarked on a healthier lifestyle, gradually shedding the excess pounds.

Bobby now thrives with his foster mom, enjoying playtime, naps, and plenty of belly rubs. His radiant energy brings happiness wherever he goes, and he’s endlessly grateful for his second chance at life.

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“He lives in the moment. He loves people even though he really has no reason to. He’s so grateful for every second, he shows us, you know, how we should be,” Astrof shared. Although Bobby has yet to find a forever home, Astrof remains confident that the perfect family will come along. If you’d like more information on Bobby and inquire about his adoption, click here.

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