8. Pete

Pet name (and nicknames): Pete (Petester)

Interesting story behind your pet’s name or nickname: Pete’s mother’s name was Petey. To be funny, a friend once called him Petester when he was only a year old, and it stuck. Here we are 10 years later, and he is definitely a Petester.

Pet’s date of birth: 2/10/2014

Pet’s gender: Male

Is your pet spayed or neutered: Yes

Pet’s breed: German Shorthaired Pointer mix.

Physical description: Pete is 11 years old and 67 lbs. He is deaf and mostly white except for some spots on his skin under his fur and a few spots on his ears. He has super soft fur like a powder puff and is a bit jowly, bow-legged, and pigeon-toed.

How long have you had your pet? 10 years

If adopted, how did you come to adopt your pet: Born deaf, Pete was approved to join Deaf Dog Rescue of America (DDROA) Deaf Dog Ranch in California. DDROA planned his transport utilizing a team of volunteer drivers on a two-weekend/30-leg transport, with a layover in Texas in between. Pete’s mommy and daddy were leg No. 3, from Tallahassee to Chipley, Florida. This ride ended in a “Transport Fail” because Pete’s mommy sat in the back seat with his head in her lap, and she fell in love. She made calls that following week and his trip to California was cancelled. At a year old, Pete made the journey from Texas back to Tallahassee where he has lived happily for 10 years in his forever home.

Favorite food/treats: Pete loves cut-up chicken and savory Milk Bones.

Tell us about your pet’s personality: Pete has a heart of gold. He appreciates all love and attention that comes his way. He is shy, very gentle, nondemanding, and always strives to please. 

What makes your pet happy: When he was young, Pete loved to run laps in the backyard at full speed, with many neighbors commenting on how he was the fastest dog they had ever seen. Lap running is mostly in his past, although he does like to surprise us with a few laps when we least expect it, but he still enjoys patrolling the yard, getting and giving lots of love, playing with his furry sister and best friend Tallie Jean, and relaxing on his own bed.

What is unique about your pet: Pete’s story is one of rags to riches. He has survived being kicked and beaten by his first owner and shot by a disgruntled neighbor; escaped euthanasia; overcome his inability to hear to now living his best life with his mommy, daddy, and furry sister Tallie Jean. Pete does not let being deaf stop him. He is hyper-alert and has learned and adapted to knowing what is expected when and where by watching our facial expressions and our movements and actions.

Please tell us about any of your pet’s unusual characteristics or special talents: When Pete realizes he is going for a ride, his most unique trait shines. He flashes the cutest, most heart-warming smile where you can see his teeth like an old man with a new set of dentures, accompanied by the sweetest little snorts.

Please share a heartwarming story: Pete’s life started as a bird-hunting dog. During his first year, he lived outside and often got into trouble digging in the neighbor’s garden and ended up shot. Birdshot is still shows up on X-rays, proving it. His hunting career, and almost his life, was cut short due to his deafness. His hunter/owner stayed frustrated with him, kicking and beating him with sticks/pipes. Pete was scheduled for euthanasia because he was a tool that did not work. The hunter’s wife took compassion for Pete and reached out for help. Pete was connected with Deaf Dog Rescue of America (DDROA). which partnered with Deaf Dogs Rock, to save Pete. 

What makes your pet special to you or your family: Pete is a sweetheart and extremely gentle. He is the family personal greeter when we arrive home. Pete enjoys getting love and having physical contact with his family. He just exudes love and kindness. His sweet little face and cute expressions warm our hearts every day. Pete is his furry sister Tallie Jean’s best friend and wonderful companion. He is a special gem that brightens our days and reminds us of hope and resilience.

Why should your pet be Tally Top Pet: Pete is a poster boy for dog rescues, a veteran of rescue dog transport, and a true example of resilience and strength. He is a survivor of past abuse, being shot, and eminent euthanasia. He also overcame his inability to hear and now living his best life for the past 10 years with his mommy, daddy and furry sister and best friend Tallie Jean.