Shelter Dog Jeffrey Gets Second Chance at Life

From death row rescue to therapy dog and top-ranked rally competitor

Jeffrey, owned by Michele Houston of Connecticut, is a shining example of the hidden gems waiting in shelters all across America.

Adopted from a New York City high-kill shelter in 2010, Jeffrey is known as The Positively Peaceful Pit Bull on social media. He has been described as “truly magical,” touching everyone with his sweet demeanor and gentle spirit. He shatters stereotypes and opens minds, advocating by example.

Jeffrey competes in WCRL Rally Obedience, and Michele is proud to say he is force-free trained and holds seven national rankings; he has earned more than 47 titles, and in 2019 he became the first pit bull in history to earn the highest achievement in their sport, the Rally Master Champion title.

Since 2012, Jeffrey has been a Pet Partners therapy dog, providing comfort to grieving children and hospice patients, as well as humane education to scouting groups, and school children.

Since 2013, the annual Jeffrey’s Joy of Giving Donation Drive has collected thousands of pounds of nonperishable food items and toiletries for local homeless shelters, more than two tons of pet food for local animal shelters and pet food pantries and nearly $6,000 in monetary donations for various 501c3 charities.

Recently he was nominated as a Humane Hero, serving as an example of what shelter dogs can do.

 

Read about more amazing rescue dogs.