Dog’s life is sweet at 16

What do most teens want for their Sweet Sixteen? A new car? A big party? Not Nuggie. This 16-year-old’s desires are much simpler: a leash for taking walks, a handful of treats, a comfy couch for snuggling and relaxing.

But don’t let his age fool you. This little blond dog with folded-over ears has the same energy and curiosity as pups half his age. Still, he’s seen a lot in his 16 years and faced many challenges on the way to the sweet life.

At first blush, Nuggie’s personality may seem contradictory. Independent yet loyal. Sweet yet spirited. Affectionate yet aloof. But it makes perfect sense. He gets very attached to “his” person. That made life in a shelter environment with lots of different caregivers tough for him.

When Nuggie arrived at the Best Friends Pet Adoption Center in Salt Lake City from a shelter, he had a hard time trusting people. He sometimes growled or lunged at people, and he barked when left alone. But he wasn’t a mean guy. These behaviors came from a place of fear.

Little dog is living large

Dogs who are fearful or selective can have a harder time getting adopted. But the Best Friends team knew there was much more to Nuggie than his nervous behaviors. No-kill is doing what's right for each individual animal. That means giving pets like Nuggie the extra care or time they need to go to a new home.

Staff worked with him to help him ease his fears, feel safe, and gain confidence. They welcomed him to hang out in the administrative office, where he could enjoy a quieter environment and get to know people at his own pace.

Nuggie needed a home with people who would understand his quirks, respect his boundaries, and give him space when he needed it. A few adoptions weren’t the right fit, so Nuggie stayed in several foster homes.

In his foster homes, Nuggie could settle into a routine, relax, and let his personality shine. His foster families gave him the time and understanding he needed, without expecting him to become a different dog.

His final foster home truly made the difference. Somewhere along the way, his foster family realized Nuggie was exactly where he belonged and decided to officially adopt him.

Little dog finds big love in her new home

These days, Nuggie has plenty to celebrate. He trots along during walks, enjoys head scratches, and is filled with happiness every time he sees his people. He's also a big fan of treats, especially cheese. And when it's time to unwind, there's nothing quite like curling up on the couch.

Nuggie may not have gotten a shiny new ride or a big birthday bash for his Sweet Sixteen. But he has something much better: people who love him just the way he is. The scared little dog who once kept everyone at a distance is now a devoted best friend.

Our goal at Best Friends is to support all animal shelters in the U.S. in reaching no-kill. No-kill means saving every dog and cat in a shelter who can be saved, accounting for community safety and good quality of life for pets. 

Shelter staff can’t do it alone. Saving animals in shelters is everyone’s responsibility, and it takes support and participation from the community. No-kill is possible when we work together thoughtfully, honestly, and collaboratively.