Pet’s rescue story in 500 words or less
Taz came into my life at one of the most unexpected and unplanned moments — during my second-to-last year of undergrad. I had always dreamed of having a dog of my own, but everyone told me the same thing: it wasn’t realistic for a college student. Still, I found myself endlessly scrolling through rescue pages anyway. One thing I knew for certain was that if I ever did get a dog, it would be a rescue — never a breeder.

Before anything else, I had to convince my roommate, who at the time was very much a cat person (how times have changed since then!). When the day finally came to visit the rescue, we were both scared — me and Taz alike. I met him, held him, and walked away empty-handed, unsure if I was ready and terrified of making the wrong decision.

But somehow, a week later, by what I can only describe as fate, Taz was still there — still waiting, still available, and still meant to be mine. When I brought him home, he insisted on riding in my lap in the driver’s seat the entire way. Of course, our first stop together had to be Chick-fil-A, where he enjoyed his very first grilled nuggets.

Like many rescue dogs, Taz needed time to adjust. The first few weeks were hard — on both of us — and shortly after coming home, he became sick. That period forced us to slow down and learn each other. From that point on, we became inseparable, forming a bond built on patience, trust, and quiet companionship.

Taz is sweet, sassy, and fiercely devoted to his close circle of humans. He’s shy at first, but once he gets to know you, he won’t stop giving kisses. One of the most unique things about him is that he almost never barks. He came to me that way and hasn’t changed — on the rare occasions he does bark, he immediately scares himself and looks just as surprised as everyone else.

Today, Taz is my constant companion. We love going to dog-friendly restaurants, spending time with family and friends, and I’ve even snuck him into a movie theater once or twice. Because of his anxiety, Taz is a proud stroller dog, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Together, we now run our own small business, Taz Couture, where we design and sew over-the-collar dog bandanas. We travel Florida-wide entering costume contests, making memories, and showing the world just how special rescue dogs can be.

I love my little guy, and my little guy loves me. He’s my emotional support dog — and I’m his emotional support human.