Owner's Name
Zannah Mass

City
San Diego

Pet's Quirks
He could be charged with racketeering since he runs a racket around town to get as many treats as possible. :)

Pet's Story
The rescuers knew Django was abandoned at (likely tied up outside) a high-kill shelter in North Carolina with no ID. He was about a year old and someone had given him some care and training, yet that someone wound up abandoning him outside a center that would euthanize him within days if he wasn’t claimed or adopted. Couldn’t people at least leave their dogs’ ID tags on and health records so they’d have a fighting chance at being adopted? Perhaps a note indicating the dog’s name, good temperament and health, and that they just couldn’t afford the care or find someone else capable. Well thankfully, a number of rescuers based in NY regularly go down south to over-populated shelters to save as many dogs as they can transport and foster. So I was the fortunate one able to adopt a Southern Gentleman. There is no experience more humbling, life-affirming and rewarding than this connection and perhaps parenthood in general. I love my dog infinitely, eternally and with all my might. He’s the reason I get up in the morning and the last one I think of before I go to sleep. Django inspired me to make a sea change on my path, and together, I hope we do right by all animals and help save more who are homeless and abused. Our profound connection turned me into an advocate for animals. I volunteer, donate, and support a variety of causes for animals and I consume far fewer animal products (both diet and otherwise). A story about his name... I prepared myself for dog parenthood for a couple of years. One fine morning years ago, I woke up thinking I’d soon adopt a dog and I’d name him Django. I knew it from Gypsy Jazz musician Django Reinhardt. The name just came to me as I woke up, but I later learned his name in Romani means “I awaken.” And my Django was also a bit of a nomad before we found each other.
Special talents?
Django can detect chemotherapy and possibly disease itself.
He can transform from a dog to a teddy bear to a seal pup in an instant.
He can also expand hearts.
Django, like most animals, has pure intentions, authenticity and tremendous sensitivity to feelings. He has also bravely protected me late at night on the street and nursed me back to health when I needed his TLC. Now it's his turn as a senior, special-needs dog to get extra care ... though he always has been priority #1 from day one.
For anyone thinking to expand the family with a dog, I can attest to the utter fulfillment these precious pups bring. When we rescue them from shelters, streets, and bad situations, they rescue us right back. Django, may you always be happy, healthy, and safe by my side. And when it's time to go, may it be painless with mama by your side. We will always be connected through space and time, love, energy and memories. What a gift you are.