Hi, my name is Christine Fenton, and 4 years ago, I rescued “Tate” a 4-year-old, half pug and half dachshund from the Westfield humane society. In 20I4, I lost my pure breed pug “Blackjack.”

I never thought I’d get another dog after him. It took a while before I could even look at dogs. Slowly I found myself wanting to associate myself in the dog world again. I volunteered at the Lakeshore Humane Society to slowly get acquainted with the dogs again. It didn’t take long. I found myself wanting another side kick. (To make a long story short) I remember exactly the moment a friend of mine texted me and told me of a dog she saw on the website, at Westfield Humane Society (Northern Chautauqua Canine Rescue). The second I saw the photo, I knew, “He’s the one.” The photo was actually a really bad photo of him. I remember showing my sons and their response being “Are you sure?” YES!

I made arrangements with the shelter, and he was mine! I was told he had been in a shelter down south, and had mad his way up here. He had been adopted numerous times, but was returned. He had been abused, very skittish, but also very tough. He had to fight for himself when he was in certain situations. When my son and I picked him up, he was very thin, but seemed happy just to be getting out of the “pen” again. We loved him at first sight!

Soon we heard his bark! It was the bark of a huge dog from this little dog (Very low and loud bark). Tate became a part of our family instantly! The very first day, he jumped on the bed and when I went to get him off, he bite right through my thumb! I was stunned, but I looked at him and told him “You are not going anywhere, this is your home!”

It took awhile, but Tate came around! Not only with us, but with most everyone he encountered! He had his flashbacks of abuse, and acts out, but with unconditional love and patience, Tate has come full circle! He loves seeing people he’s acquainted with. He loves them unconditionally, as all dogs do. Mind you, “Pet Smart” has banned him from their grooming salon (I assume flashbacks from abuse) and he barks like crazy at the mailman, or strangers approaching us. But, for the most part our Tate has come full circle. People can pet him and he loves it! He has come from a rags (wicked) life to riches! He has given us much more LOVE and laughter then he will ever know … for this is why he is our Wonder Dog!

— Tate is loved by Christine Fenton and family