The folks at PAWS Shelter of Central Texas (PAWS) are used to falling in love with the pets they save. But one senior black Lab, Teddy, has impacted staff members more than most since he was first surrendered in early 2025.
“Teddy is one of those dogs whose being here has broken our hearts for ten months,” PAWS’ Dianne Scott told The Dodo. “Every time he’s passed by and overlooked, they break a little more.”
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PAWS Shelter of Central Texas
When Teddy arrived in February 2025, he had just been relinquished by the family he’d spent most of his life with. The 7-year-old boy was devastated, and his new caregivers at the shelter were just as sad for him.
“It was very hard and confusing for Teddy when he was brought in, and the worst part was that we couldn’t explain to him in words what was going on,” Scott said.
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PAWS Shelter of Central Texas
The first few days were tough for Teddy as he acclimated to the shelter environment. But it didn’t take nearly as long for the folks at the shelter to fall for him.
“Teddy quickly became a staff favorite through his goofy antics and obsession with his stuffies, and showing off his fetch skills,” Scott said.
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PAWS Shelter of Central Texas
After presenting Teddy with some new toys, the PAWS staff soon realized he had an obsession with plush ones. Before long, Teddy was taking a plush toy with him everywhere he went, and his caregivers couldn’t get enough of it.
“He will happily grab one as he trots along on his walk,” Scott said. “He also likes to make sure you’re watching and appreciating how well he’s taking care of the toy, as he glances at you over his shoulder.”
As the months passed and Teddy remained overlooked, he would rely on his beloved stuffed animals for comfort. And, of course, he bonded with the PAWS staff members who cared for him daily.
“He is a true lover-boy and craves human connection,” Scott said. “Teddy simply wants a person or persons to love him and be with him.”
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PAWS Shelter of Central Texas
As much as Scott and her colleagues love spending time with Teddy every day, they are desperate to find him the perfect home to live out the rest of his golden years.
“Teddy doesn’t need much, just a pair of loving hands, a couch and a place to play fetch!” Scott said.
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PAWS Shelter of Central Texas
The PAWS staff have their fingers crossed that Teddy’s dream family will show up for him soon. Until then, they’ll continue showering him with endless loves and stuffies, just as he’s always deserved.
“He’s so special and so sweet,” Scott said. “We can’t wait to find out who the lucky ones are that adopt him, and we’re sure they’ll be worth the wait!”