Some dogs are here to live a BIG life. When Freddie came to Humane Colorado, we knew he was one such dog. A young golden retriever typically weighs 60 pounds, give or take. Freddie was only 34 pounds and covered in pressure sores when he arrived at the Leslie A. Malone Center. He was immediately placed in foster care to bring him to a healthy weight/ Freddie was placed on a special diet of Hill’s Science Diet i/d dog food to help manage digestive upsets on his healing and weight gain journey. Despite everything he’d been through, Freddie never lost his affection for people. In his foster home, he showed off his love for a good time as he gained weight for adoption. “Freddie is an example of the resilience of dogs. Despite coming to the shelter severely underweight, he is the kindest, gentlest, happiest boy,” said his foster mom. After gaining 30 pounds in foster care, Freddie was healthier, neutered, and ready for a new life. A few hours into his first day available for adoption, he met Madi. The connection was instant. “Freddie has been a pure joy since we brought him home,” Madi said. “He loves two things: food and balls.” Freddie also brings joy to his community. Madi tells us he has been a welcome addition and a source of comfort for students at a local high school. His presence earned him a new – and important – job as the Chief Wellness Officer for the high school marching band. It may not be an official title, but he plays an integral role in building the confidence of students. “We feel so incredibly lucky to have him in our lives,” said Madi. “It is so wonderful to know that, with his new family, he will get the love he deserves and live out the rest of his days with plenty of snacks and cuddles,” his foster mom remarked. Freddie’s BIG life is made possible by the support we get from our community and partners. We’re able to accommodate each animal’s unique dietary needs and help keep animals as healthy as they can be while in our care, thanks in part to our ongoing partnership with Hill’s Pet Nutrition. The Hill’s Food, Shelter, and Love program, which provides science-led nutrition to feed the pets in our care, and at more than 1,000 animal shelters across North America. Interested in helping pets like Freddie thrive in our care while you feed your pet the best? Shop Hills directly and select Humane Colorado as your shelter of choice at checkout! The season of giving is here! Donate today to help the over 40,000 animals we serve in our animal centers and throughout Colorado every year. Freddie and animals like him are grateful for your support. Share Facebook TikTok Instagram