Dog finds happiness after 15 years chained in backyard
SUFFOLK COUNTY, N.Y. -- Bear lived the first 15 years of his life chained outside. These days, his toughest moments come between which doggy bed to take a nap in and which treats to eat first.
On January 15, 2017, The Guardians of Rescue managed to convince Bear’s owner to surrender him - allowing him to be placed in the organization's care while they found him a forever home.
Watch the video above to see the moment Bear was cut from his chains.
On January 29, 2017, Bear was adopted by Kerrie Rosenfeld and so began his life of treats and warm doggy beds, with no chains in sight.
Exactly one year later, we're checking in with Bear. We're happy to report, Bear is still soaking up the good life.
"He loves belly rubs, his twice daily walks, meal time and treat time, and walking from room to room in the house," Bear's mom says. "He has a bed in each room."
Bear's first 15 years of life were tough, but that's all in the past. At 16, Kerry is helping him live his life to the fullest. And he's doing so with tons of energy. "He doesn’t know he’s not a puppy!" says Rosenfeld.
"He LOVES to run!" says Rosenfeld to USA TODAY. "Must be because he never ever got to do that before if he was chained up."
Bear still gets whatever he wants: puppiccinos, toys, a warm fire – you name it and Kerrie’s got it for her beloved dog.
Bear follows her around wherever she goes, showing much appreciation for his new life.