Thierry

When Thierry arrived at the shelter, staff reported that he spent his days barking nonstop and circling in his kennel. Given his age and how distressed he appeared, we worried our time with him might be short.

But the moment Thierry was scooped up into the arms of our transporter (and her husband), everything changed. He immediately relaxed, curled up, and peacefully fell asleep. It was as if he finally knew he was safe. When he arrived at CARES, he did the very same thing—calm, quiet, and simply wanting to rest after what had clearly been a difficult journey.

During his exam, the only time Thierry cried out was when his spine was touched. X-rays revealed severe IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease), finally giving us an answer for the pain and stress he had been experiencing in the shelter environment. The constant barking and circling weren't behavioral at all—they were his way of coping with chronic discomfort. The good news? Aside from his spinal disease, Thierry is remarkably healthy for a senior dog.

Today, Thierry is living the life every senior deserves. He spends his days enjoying his greatest passion—food—snuggling with his foster brother, napping in cozy beds, and soaking up every ounce of love and attention he can get. His quirky, long stilt-like legs and sweet personality have made him an instant favorite. Our little deer has traded the chaos of the shelter for a life filled with comfort, kindness, and peace. He may have a chronic condition, but he's proof that with the right care and a loving home, even the oldest dogs can truly thrive.