Third time's a charm for Titus
Titus had his fair share of ups and downs before being adopted in 2020, shortly after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. In late 2019, the 7-year-old Staffordshire terrier mix (labeled by many as a pit bull) was surrendered to the care of the Dumb Friends League twice in one month, first by his original owner and then by his initial adopter. Both patrons reported Titus’ behavioral issues – from destructive tendencies and escape attempts to resource guarding – as the reason for relinquishment. Over his seven-month stay with the League, Titus was also diagnosed with allergies and dental disease and had to have a gingival mass plus three teeth removed. That’s a lot for any animal to handle, even a big guy like Titus.
Like many dogs, living in the shelter seemed to exacerbate some of the challenges that brought Titus to the League. The stress of an unfamiliar environment, combined with the confusion and uncertainty of change, can often lead to increased anxiety and behavioral issues, especially for longer-term residents. Recognizing his love for human companionship, the League’s Behavior Care Team worked closely with Titus to support his well-being and prepare him for adoption. Eventually, a trainer and friend of the League offered to foster him in Broomfield so he could experience the peace and joy of living in a home while waiting to find his special someone.
That someone was Rachel. Having recently lost one of their beloved greyhounds to bone cancer, Rachel and her family were looking to adopt another canine companion in May 2020. During the early days of the pandemic, it was next to impossible to arrange an in-person adoption appointment. But through the magic of social media, Rachel happened to connect with Titus’ foster parent, and the two soon arranged an outdoor, socially distant “meet and greet.” The visit could not have gone better; Titus and Rachel’s surviving greyhound, Rosie, got along, and Rachel instantly felt a connection with the sweet, goofy boy from the Dumb Friends League. After just one more meeting, Rachel met with our adoption counselors and Titus went home with his new family.
“Titus has just been such a positive presence in our lives,” Rachel said. “He’s really good-tempered, gentle, and easygoing – everyone loves him.” Encouragingly, the behavioral challenges that Titus experienced in other homes and at the shelter have not been a concern at Rachel’s house. “Sure, he’s a nuisance on a leash, but otherwise, he’s a complete doll,” Rachel reports. In addition to “snoring like a freight train” and putting his nose in everything, Titus seems content just being close to Rachel and her family.
For Rachel, adopting Titus has indeed been life-changing. She shares,
It means everything to me to be able to give this darling dog a second chance. He's so deserving. They're really all deserving. And just knowing that we were able to give a loving home to a dog who a lot of people considered undesirable means a ton to me. I aspire to be somebody who always gives back, and this is just one way to do it. We adopted him when Denver still had a pit bull ban. And while I know that the League takes wonderful care of all the animals they shelter, and we had a great foster home, there's nothing like having your own couch to snore on. We've been able to give Titus that, and he's given us so much love in return.
Interested in adopting your own deserving sweetheart? Please see our adoptable pets here. Plus, through February 28, we’re offering 40% off adoption fees for big dogs like Titus (that is, 40lbs. or more). Come to any of the League’s three shelters to see why more is more!
