“That’s the kind of dog he is.”
When Jill Dyché, executive director of the Los Angeles–based rescue Outta the Cage, learned that one of their pups, Milo, had just lost out on a potential adoption, her heart sank. She was driving when the call came in — and Milo was in the car with her.
“He must’ve seen my face or felt the shift in my energy,” Dyché told The Dodo. Sensing her disappointment, Milo reached his paw forward and rested it gently on her shoulder. “I think he was comforting me. That’s the kind of dog he is.”
Milo’s adopter had backed out because her partner wasn’t on board. While it’s not uncommon for adopters to change their minds, Dyché admitted this one stung. Milo, a three-year-old black pit bull mix, has been waiting for a forever home for nine months. And like many black pitties, he faces an uphill battle — often overlooked because of unfair stereotypes.
In reality, Milo is a social, affectionate goofball. Found as a stray and once on a euthanasia list at a high-kill shelter, he now thrives in foster care with an Outta the Cage trainer. He loves children, gets along with dogs big and small, and greets life with a wagging tail. When excited, he even does a little dance, tapping his feet in joy.
Milo enjoys short walks, lounging like royalty after baths, and soaking up affection from anyone willing to give it. “He’s unbelievably social,” said Dyché. “He’s just a very affable, happy dude.”
Though he may have lost one chance at adoption, Milo hasn’t lost his spirit — or his big smile. “He’s going to be your best friend,” Dyché said. “He has so much love to give.”