After taking a year and a half break from fostering, we recently decided we were able to open our home to another dog in need again. Fostering is an incredible way to help save lives, but it’s also important to find the right fit—not just for the foster dog, but for our family, including our dog Meatball and our two cats.
When Bullies-N-Beyond ResQ in Omaha, Nebraska posted about a 6-year-old French Bulldog who had been used for breeding her entire life, my heart was immediately drawn to her. She reminded me of our first foster, Precious. However, fostering a dog with her background—coming from a puppy mill was new territory for us. She wasn’t potty trained, and we weren’t sure we were equipped to meet her unique needs.
Initially, we decided to pass. The rescue had other foster applicants with experience caring for dogs from similar situations, and we thought someone else might be a better fit.
But Petunia (yes, we named her) stayed heavy on my mind and heart. The next morning, I couldn’t shake the feeling that she was meant to come to us. I reached back out to the rescue, and it turned out the other fosters didn’t work out. After talking it over with my husband, Troy, we decided we were up for the challenge and ready to give her a safe space to decompress and heal.
Meet Petunia
Petunia came from a puppy mill in South Dakota, where she spent her entire six years of life being used solely for breeding. When we picked her up, she was terrified and unsure of what was happening. Her saggy nipples and long, curled nails were clear signs of her past, and she smelled—badly. At first, we thought she might even be pregnant, and hopefully she still isn’t. 😊
Despite her fear, she welcomed Troy’s comforting arms. To our surprise, she was immediately calm around him—something we didn’t expect, as many rescue dogs are initially leery of men.
On the drive home, though, we encountered a…unique issue. The rancid smell we thought was an accident in her towel? Nope. It was her gas and her poor hygiene from years of neglect.
When we got her home, we gave her a much-needed bath. She tolerated it well, though she was visibly nervous about the water spray. Afterward, she snuggled up in a towel in Troy’s arms while we cleaned her nails and paws, which were caked in dirt and feces. Finally clean and warm, Petunia was ready to rest.
Learning to Be a Dog
We set her up in a quiet space in our finished basement, where she could decompress. For the first few days, she mostly slept, only waking for meals and short potty breaks. She was exhausted—physically and emotionally—after years of living as a breeding dog.
Slowly but surely, we started building trust with her. Every interaction was positive, filled with praise and treats. We included Meatball in her potty breaks and mealtime routines, hoping his welcoming energy would help her feel safer.
Petunia had no concept of grass, toys, or even what it meant to be a dog. But after just 12 days, she has made incredible progress. She’s learning potty training, becoming comfortable with Meatball (she’s even started initiating play!), and guarding her food and kennel less. Most importantly, she’s starting to realize she’s safe and loved.
A Message About Puppy Mills
Petunia’s story is heartbreaking but sadly not uncommon. Puppy mills and backyard breeders exist because people continue to support them, often unknowingly. These operations prioritize profit over the well-being of the dogs, using them for breeding until they are no longer “useful,” at which point many are discarded or abandoned.
We urge everyone to avoid buying dogs from pet stores, backyard breeders, or online listings that lack transparency. Instead, consider adopting from a reputable rescue or shelter. Do your research and choose a dog that fits your lifestyle. Dogs are a lifelong commitment, not a passing trend or accessory.
Petunia’s Bright Future
Petunia is already blossoming into an amazing dog, and we know she’ll bring so much joy to her forever family. She’s available for adoption through Bullies-N-Beyond ResQ. If you’re interested, please fill out an application, and the rescue will be in touch.
Thank you for supporting rescue dogs like Petunia. Every foster, adopter, and advocate makes a difference. Together, we can help dogs like her leave behind their past and step into a life filled with love, freedom, and happiness.
To support our mission, follow us on social media (TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, IG) or visit CogsDogs.com.
With love & pawsitivity,
Susie Cogswell, Cogs Dogs Mom
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