Some dogs arrive in rescue and leave a mark the moment they walk through the door, Gooch is one of those dogs. Nearly seven years young, this big American Bulldog–type gentleman carries the heart of a survivor and the softness of a dog who has waited far too long to be loved the way he deserves.

​

Gooch’s life before arriving at SEPR was filled with heartbreak. After his family passed away, he, his mother Sassy, and his sister Snow were left chained outside with no one to care for them. Day after day they survived on scraps, weather, and hope. By the time help reached them, Gooch was heartworm positive, anemic, underweight, fighting hookworms and bladder infections, and carrying a cancerous lump that needed removal. His teeth showed years of neglect, and his once-strong 80+ lb frame told a story of quiet suffering.

​

And yet, the first thing he gave us was love. Gooch greets every person with soft kisses, gentle tail wags, and his signature full-body lean, as if he’s trying to soak up all the affection he missed out on. Despite everything he has endured, he remains one of the sweetest, calmest, most forgiving souls we’ve ever met.

Since joining SEPR, Gooch has completed major medical treatment including heartworm injections, surgery, and parasite care, and is now resting comfortably while we monitor his bloodwork and bladder.

 

Each week brings more sparkle back into his eyes, and more of his personality shining through. He truly appreciates life’s simplest joys: a soft couch, a warm blanket, a gentle hand on his head, and the chance to curl up beside someone he trusts.

​

Gooch is wonderfully easy to live with. He is fully house trained and politely lets you know when he needs to go out by pacing at the door. He settles beautifully in his crate, entering willingly without hesitation, and he rides in the car like a seasoned traveler, curling up to sleep for the journey. Bath time isn’t his favorite, but he tolerates it with a calm, patient spirit. He’s still learning leash skills, and he knows several cues such as “wait,” “look,” and “ah-ah,” and he’s trying his best with “sit” and “lay down.”

​

Around kids, Gooch is a complete sweetheart. He loves to climb onto the couch, rest his head on them like a pillow, and soak up their affection. His energy level is low overall, this boy was born for couch-potato life, but he’ll break into silly zoomies after kennel time and gets adorably excited when he feels good. And toys? Gooch LOVES them. In fact, his favorite hobby is expertly dismantling squeakers with immense pride.

​

As he heals and gets more comfortable, a wonderfully goofy, gentle personality is emerging. Gooch is affectionate, appreciative, and endlessly grateful for every kindness shown his way. Losing both his human family and his canine family could have hardened him, but instead it has shaped him into a dog overflowing with forgiveness and quiet love.

​

Gooch is looking for a laid-back, easygoing home where he can spend his days relaxing, cuddling, and simply existing beside his people. Older kids or a calm household would suit him perfectly. He doesn’t ask for much, just a place to nap, people who adore his big heart, and the chance to live out the rest of his life surrounded by comfort and care.

​

After everything he has survived, Gooch deserves the very best chapter yet. And if you’re searching for a gentle, grateful, couch-loving companion who will make every day feel a little softer… Gooch is ready for you.

​​

SPECIAL RECOGNITION TO GOOCH'S FOSTER FAMILY FOR THEIR TIME AND DONATIONS: 

Kayla & Anthony​