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Gentle dog left by owner experienced ‘unimaginable cruelty.’ Resilient pup needs a home

Photo grab from Kings Harvest Pet Rescue No Kill Shelter's Facebook page

A dog that has endured a painful journey after having been left by his owner is in need of a life of only love and pets at one Iowa shelter.

Meet Toots, a 5-year-old pit bull terrier with soulful eyes and a horrific backstory that he managed to survive despite all odds, the Kings Harvest Pet Rescue No Kill Shelter in Iowa said in a July 6 Facebook post.

“Toots was left abandoned when their owner walked away from his life,” the post read. “Neighbors, witnessing his emaciated form and desperate search for food, couldn’t stand idly by. These kind-hearted individuals took it upon themselves to provide sustenance, becoming the lifeline for him.”

The pup’s past is littered with terror, yet he has maintained a loving demeanor and never lost his affection for people or other animals, according to the shelter.

“Toots, despite enduring unimaginable cruelty, stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of dogs. He bears the physical scars of a gunshot to the face and multiple attacks on his body, yet beneath it all, he radiates sweetness, kindness, and an unparalleled gentleness,” the post continues. “Toots has emerged from his past with a heart that knows only love, and his resilience is a source of inspiration to all who know him.”

According to the shelter, Toots is:

  • Neutered

  • Leash trained

  • Kennel trained

  • Has had heartworm treatment

He also gets along with small children and other dogs.

“This poor guy has been through so much in his life and now he’s hoping to find a couch to chill on and live happily ever after,” the shelter said.

Comments flowed in about Toots, from people hoping to adopt, to those who just wanted to send their love.

“How much is his adoption fee, I was wondering if I could sponsor half of it for this sweetheart? I’m not able to adopt him, but would love to help in some way,” one person said.

“Bless his heart! Please screen very, very carefully who he goes to because he deserves the world. And nothing less,” another commented.

“Let’s get this boy a home!” someone said.

“Such a sad situation. How can anyone abandon a family member!?” one person asked.

“Toots looks like the most bestest boi ever. What a sweet baby,” another commented.

For more information on Toots or other pets that are up for adoption, please visit PetFinder.com.

Kings Harvest Pet Rescue is located in Davenport, which is a 170-mile drive east from Des Moines.

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This story was originally published July 8, 2024 at 3:14 PM with the headline "Gentle dog left by owner experienced ‘unimaginable cruelty.’ Resilient pup needs a home."

TJ Macias
Fort Worth Star-Telegram
TJ Macías is a Real-Time national sports reporter for McClatchy based out of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Formerly, TJ covered the Dallas Mavericks and Texas Rangers beat for numerous media outlets including 24/7 Sports and Mavs Maven (Sports Illustrated). Twitter: @TayloredSiren
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