Hi… my name is Dagwood.
I am a 5-year-old male, tan Mixed Breed mix.
I’ve spent a lot of my life just trying to survive.
Before rescue, nobody noticed when I was hurting. My skin was painful, my ears were infected, and I didn’t feel good at all. I don’t think anyone had cared for me in a very long time.
But somehow, even after everything, I still wanted love.
The people at the shelter saw something in me worth saving. They gave me medicine, soft blankets, warm baths, gentle voices, and patience when I was scared. And little by little, I started healing.
Not just on the outside.
And slowly, I started learning something I’d never really known before:
I was safe.
Now I’m discovering all the little things that make life beautiful. Sleeping peacefully through the night on my dog bed. Playing with toys. Running around the yard doing happy zoomies. Curling up near someone I trust. Feeling the sunshine on my face. Having friends.
I especially love other dogs.
Honestly, they help me feel brave when the world feels big and scary. Having a friendly dog around shows me that everything is okay. I love to play, cuddle, follow their lead, and just be part of a little pack. If your dog needs a best friend, I hope maybe that could be me.
I can still be shy when meeting new people. Sometimes I get nervous because I haven’t always known kindness. But if you’re patient with me — if you give me time and a gentle voice — I promise you’ll see my heart open up.
And when does it?
I love deeply.
The people caring for me watched me go from scared and unsure to climbing onto the couch asking for pets and cuddles once I realized nobody was going to hurt me anymore.
I’m not looking for a perfect home.
I’m looking for someone who understands that healing takes time.
Someone who will see past my fear and notice how badly I want to love and be loved.
Someone who will never make me wonder if I’m safe again.
Because underneath all my nervousness is just a sweet boy who wants what every dog deserves:
A soft place to sleep.
A family to belong to.
A person to love forever.
I’m ready to love someone with my whole heart. Maybe you’re ready to love me too.
Here’s a short video clip of me in action: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=830237063492682
To learn more about me or the adoption process, please email the shelter foster team at foster@cuyahogacounty.gov
Please note: I’m currently living in a foster home and am not available for same day meet and greets.
Love,
Dagwood 💙
