Leo

My story

Hi, I’m Leo, an 8-year-old Kuwaiti Canaan Dog, and my journey hasn’t been easy, but I’m still here, full of life and love! ❤️ Let me tell you a little about my story—it's one of survival, strength, and second chances. I was just a 5-month-old puppy when I was hit by a car, beaten, and tossed in a dumpster in Kuwait. 😢 But after months of recovery, I was sent to New Jersey in the summer of 2019. At first, everything seemed great, but as the colder weather arrived, I started acting strange and showing aggression towards strangers. I was growling, and the shelter thought I was unadoptable. They were going to put me down, but the Kuwait rescue reached out to PUP, and they rushed to save me. Turns out, I was having trouble adjusting to the bone pain that comes with cold weather—I wasn’t used to seasons! But there was more to it. I had Ehrlichiosis, a tick-borne illness that was causing pain too. After some treatment and pain management, I was back to being my happy, energetic self, ready to play and cuddle! 🐾💕 I was adopted by a family, but unfortunately, they didn’t manage my illness, and I was returned to PUP in February 2024 in bad shape. I had a fever, but after some care and attention, my Ehrlichiosis cleared up, and my arthritis was managed. Now, I’m back to my playful, loving self. On rainy or cold days, I need a little extra care, but I’m still the life of the party! 🎉 I’m a happy-go-lucky guy who loves to play, run, and be the life of the party. I adore people (I really do!), I'm also convinced that I am a lap dog. I get along great with cats, dogs, and kids. BUT, when I’m not feeling well, I may growl at strangers—this is just me telling you I need a vet check. It’s not aggression, just a way for me to communicate that something’s wrong. Here’s the deal: I need a family who understands that I require routine medical management for my tick-borne illness and occasional arthritis. When I’m feeling great, I’m the best buddy—full of love, butt scratches, cuddles, and playtime. 🐾❤️ Adopt Leo, and you’ll have a loyal, playful companion who will bring joy and love to your life. 💖 Let’s make some new memories, together! For more information on Ehrlichoisis, please visit: https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/ehrlichiosis-in-dogs

If you have any questions or would like to adopt Leo, please reach out to the adoption group directly. PetSmart Charities does not facilitate the adoption process. Thank you.