When Casey took her tiny dog Dottie to the veterinarian, he was shocked – he’d never seen a dog so small. Dottie is a funny little Brussels Griffon who is super loving and very affectionate when she wants to be. She also has quite an independent side, which doesn’t limit her in any way. Despite her small size, Dottie doesn’t seem to acknowledge that she’s much smaller than other dogs, and her vulnerability only adds to her charm.
Casey and her partner run a dog rescue in New Zealand. The breeder who had Dottie approached them, knowing they might be open to having a special needs dog in their care. He wanted them to take Dottie and give her a good life. They talked about it and knew they could provide a safe, loving home for however long she needed.
When they first got Dottie, she was even smaller than she is now. Casey thought Dottie would grow into an adult dog, but she never did. Dottie never really changed in size or weight; she essentially looks like a four-month-old puppy even though she’s now two years old. This fact left everyone, including the veterinarian, pretty shocked. He eventually diagnosed her with dwarfism, which explained everything.
Pepper, one of the other dogs in the rescue, has taken on a motherly role for Dottie. She grooms her every morning and plays with her. Many dogs at the rescue treat Dottie quite motherly, perhaps because she appears to be a vulnerable puppy.
A couple of weeks ago, Casey and her partner got word that Dottie’s biological mother was done with breeding and needed a home. They decided to adopt her, and Dottie immediately recognized her mom. Their reunion was incredible! Casey knew she made the right decision to bring the two pups back together.
Dottie has a way of charming everyone she encounters, whether they like dogs or not. She’s super close to both Casey and her partner, especially because she’s different. They always have one eye on her, making sure she’s okay.
Dottie’s resilience and adaptability are inspiring. Her independent spirit, through her unique challenges, proves that dogs are amazing creatures. We are so lucky to have our pups in our lives and will cherish them always!
Toledo, United States.
