Meet Franco: A Sweet Soul Finally Getting the Life He Deserves

For the first four years of his life, Franco knew little more than loneliness because honestly he was treated like a "junkyard dog" who was supposed to protect a terrible plot of land that a tire tread place existed.

As a puppy, he was given to a man who lived in a shed beside a tire service company's concrete parking lot. Instead of growing up as a beloved family companion, Franco spent his life chained to a fence as a "guard dog." Ironically, this gentle boy is a Cocker Spaniel mix-not exactly the fierce watchdog anyone would expect. He had no grass beneath his feet, very little shade beyond a worn-out doghouse, no protection from the weather, and almost no affection. He wasn't even given a name-he was simply called "Dog."

A dedicated Critter Cavalry Rescue volunteer spent months trying to convince his owner to let Franco go, even offering to pay for him. At last, the man agreed, and Franco was finally freed from the only life he had ever known.

Today, Franco is beginning a whole new chapter.

He has received veterinary care for the first time, enjoyed a much-needed bath and grooming, and now proudly wears the handsome red-and-white coat that will look even more beautiful once his fur grows back after all the painful mats were removed. He tested positive for heartworms, but he's already received treatment and a full recovery is in place.>

See our video of Franco that shows him experiencing life inside a home for the very first time. He's currently wearing a belly band while he learns his house manners, and he is soaking up every new experience. In just one day, he learned commands like "sit," "leave it," and "no." He clearly wants to please his people and is eager to learn.

Franco is now crate trained, although he may be a little vocal at first. He lives with both large and small dogs in his foster home. At 4 years, he weighs 42 pounds and is healthy overall. His previous owner did at least keep him well fed. We're not sure how Franco would do with cats, as he did try to chase stray cats while he was chained outside.

What we do know is that Franco absolutely loves affection. He gives the sweetest kisses, happily buries his head in your lap, and is making up for four years without the love every dog deserves.

Franco has waited four long years for a second chance. Now he's ready for a family that will give him the love, patience, and forever home he's always deserved.

To learn more about Franco or to apply to adopt him, please email Critter Cavalry Rescue at [email protected].

When you contact us, please include your city and state.

Critter Cavalry Rescue adopts to Tennessee residents and also transports adopted dogs to families throughout the Northeastern corridor every weekend.

ADOPTION FEE REQUIRED. Contact [email protected].