He was frozen to the floor of his kennel – a big, matted doodle who could barely move without wincing in pain. His fur was so badly neglected that just turning his head pulled at his skin. Years of mats had essentially trapped him inside his own coat. The smell was overwhelming. His nervous system was so shot that he wasn’t even reacting like a dog anymore – just lying low, ears alert, eyes wide, doing everything he could to survive another moment.

But here’s the thing about this dog. Under all of that – under the pain and the fear and the years of neglect – was one of the best boys I’ve ever met. And I’m getting ahead of myself, but I need you to know: he’s coming home with me to Flip Farms.

He Walked Into a Stranger’s Yard Looking for Help

Someone found this big guy wandering into their backyard. They didn’t know where he came from. They just saw this enormous, matted dog show up – and they did the right thing and called animal control.

When I heard that, something hit me hard. This dog was in serious pain. Moving hurt. Existing hurt. And yet he still had the courage and the instinct to walk up to a stranger’s house and say, I need help. I told him that directly when I sat with him. “You came into someone’s backyard to ask for help, and that makes you brave.”

He’d only been at the shelter two days when I found him, which is why he was still in the condition he arrived in. No microchip. No owner contact. Just a stray – except for one very important clue.

The Collar That Changed Everything

When Alexis brought me his collar, I held it carefully. You always have to be careful with collars – sometimes they bring back good memories, sometimes they trigger bad ones. I’ve seen both.

I wasn’t prepared for what happened next.

The second he saw it, this frozen, shut-down dog completely lit up. He went from barely able to lift his head to scrambling to his feet, tail going, eyes bright. He knew exactly what that collar meant. It meant walks. It meant outside. It meant his person.

Then I looked at the tag. It read: Mama says I’m special.

I had to take a breath on that one.

Two things can be true at the same time – that’s something I’ve learned being a dad and working with animals for years. This dog could have been neglected and also deeply loved. Someone could have genuinely cared about him and still let things spiral completely out of control. Maybe it got too expensive. Maybe they were embarrassed to take him to a groomer in that condition. Maybe life just got in the way and two years passed faster than anyone expected.

I don’t think there’s a villain in this story. I think there’s probably a mom somewhere who lost her dog and doesn’t know where he is. And if she’s watching this, I want her to know: come in. There is help. The shelter will work with you.

The Name I’m Pretty Sure I Guessed Right

We needed to give him a name since he came in as a stray. I started throwing things out. Luca. Luke. Bobby. Brian. Conrad.

Then I said Connor.

And this dog – this barely-responsive, pain-riddled dog who wasn’t even taking treats – perked up and looked right at me.

I’m not saying I’m certain. But I’m pretty certain.

Connor. We went with Connor.

Four Hours That Changed His Life

I knew we couldn’t wait. The matting wasn’t just cosmetic – it was a medical situation. Every movement caused him pain. So I reached out to Mel, our groomer, and asked her to get him in immediately.

Mel took one look at Connor and didn’t hesitate. She told me later she could see his soul behind all of that matting when she looked into his eyes. And she got to work.

What followed was one of the most painstaking grooming sessions I’ve ever witnessed. Around his neck alone – where his old collar had been sitting – the mats were so tight against the skin that every snip had to be deliberate and careful. The area where he laid, the area behind his ears, his entire rear end: all of it compacted into years of neglect made physical.

It took four hours. For a dog Connor’s size that’s properly maintained, Mel told me it would normally take less than two.

Through all of it – the scissors, the shampoo, the conditioner, two blow dryers going at the same time – Connor was a total champ. He didn’t flinch. He didn’t fight. It was like he understood that the people in that room were finally, genuinely, trying to help him.

The Before and After You Have to See

When Mel brought him out, I genuinely could not believe it was the same dog.

The before: a frozen, matted creature who couldn’t lift his head. The after: a bright-eyed, soft-coated, bandana-wearing doodle who looked ready to take on the world. The floor of the grooming room was covered in what looked like an entirely separate dog’s worth of fur.

Underneath all of it, Connor has the most beautiful coat – softer than you’d expect, almost more golden retriever than anything else, which actually worked in his favor because Mel was able to save most of his hair rather than buzzing him down to nothing. He looked handsome. He looked happy. He looked like himself, maybe for the first time in his life.

He’s Coming to Flip Farms

Here’s the part I’ve been waiting to tell you.

Connor is coming to Flip Farms.

I couldn’t leave him in the system after everything he went through – not after seeing the tricks he already knows, the trust he extended even while in pain, the way he absolutely lit up at that collar. This dog has so much to give. He just needs the time and the space to learn how to be a dog again.

At the farm, he’s going to get exactly that. He’ll figure out stairs. He’ll figure out water bowls. He’ll get a proper diet, real care, and people around him every single day who are in his corner. I’ve seen dogs come back from situations like this, and when they do, the love they give you is unlike anything else. They know what the other side looks like, so they never take the good stuff for granted.

Connor, buddy – the hardest part is over. Let’s go home.

Flip Farms Pup Date: Diesel and Harley

Before I let you go, I have to give you an update on two little nuggets who have been on my mind a lot lately – our two boxers, Diesel and Harley.

When they first came to Flip Farms, I gave their mom grace. She was moving and couldn’t take them with her, and I understood that. But the more time we’ve spent with these two, the more we’ve realized they’re in a much harder place than we initially thought.

They don’t know how to walk on a leash. They don’t know how to use stairs. They’re scared in ways that remind me of hoarding case dogs I’ve encountered before. Honestly? They just don’t know how to dog. The normal stuff that most dogs pick up just by living life – they missed all of it.

But here’s what I know about dogs like Diesel and Harley: they’re not broken. They’re just behind. And with patience, consistency, and the right environment, I’ve watched dogs in far worse shape completely transform. That’s exactly what we’re working on every single day at Flip Farms.

Limited Edition Rescue Roast

Now, here’s something I’m really excited about. We did something special for these two – we created a limited edition Flip Farms rescue blend coffee just for Diesel and Harley. Their faces are right on the bag. It’s our first ever light roast, made with organic beans from Peru, and we only made 1,000 of them. When they’re gone, they’re gone.

The idea behind it is bigger than just a bag of coffee though. Imagine walking down the grocery store aisle and seeing rescue dogs on a shelf. Every bag becomes a little billboard for dogs that need homes. We even put a QR code on the bag that takes you directly to their adoption page. Good coffee that saves lives – I don’t think that’s too much to ask.

You can preorder yours at www.flipcoffee.com/boxers and if it’s already sold out by the time you’re reading this, I’m sorry – but know that every bag sold goes right back to helping dogs like these two.

They’re not bonded in the traditional sense, but keeping them together just makes sense. They have each other, and that familiarity is a real comfort when everything else feels scary and new. So we’re looking for someone who can take them both – a family with another dog already at home would be a great fit.

If you think you’re the right person for Diesel and Harley, the adoption application link is in the description below. And as always – even if you can’t adopt, sharing this goes further than you know.

Iris, a larger dog who had become reactive after a traumatic daycare incident, surprised everyone when she met Odie. “It was instant,” said Iris’s mom, Staci. “They locked eyes, sniffed, and immediately went into zoomies. From then on, it was like they were inseparable.”

Daily Dates, Gifts, and Tuxedo Surprises

What started with playful backyard visits quickly grew into a full-blown romance. The dogs see each other almost daily, whether in the field, at each other’s homes, or on walks designed just so they can meet. They’ve even exchanged surprise gifts—from matching collars to a giant Dalmatian pillow.

In one viral moment, Odie waited outside in a tuxedo collar, flowers in paw, until Iris came out. “I saw the video and said, ‘Honey, we have to go home. Odie’s waiting in a tuxedo,’” Staci recalled with a laugh.

A Bond That Brings People Together

While the internet can’t get enough of Odie and Iris, their story has also brought their families closer. “It’s been fun for us too,” said Marcella. “We went from neighbors who barely spoke to close friends.”

For Staci, the joy is in watching Iris light up around Odie. “It brightens my day to see her so happy. If Odie were a musician, he’d be writing love songs for Iris.”

What began as a simple meeting between two dogs has turned into a viral reminder that love knows no size, breed, or boundary. Odie and Iris’s romance proves one thing: sometimes the purest love stories are written on four paws.

A Troubling Pattern

Bobby’s situation is all too common for his breed, yet deeply concerning. At just one year old, he’s already been through the shelter system three times, all within the past month. Each time, he was found wandering, picked up by strangers, and returned to the same concrete kennel. Despite being microchipped after his first visit, his owner never came back.

For those unfamiliar with basset hounds, this pattern isn’t entirely surprising. These dogs possess the second-best sense of smell in the canine world, with approximately 220 million scent receptors compared to humans’ mere 6 million. They were bred for scenting work, and without proper training and exercise, that incredible nose can lead them miles from home before they even realize they’re lost.

The Medical Concern

But Bobby’s challenges extend beyond his wandering tendencies and excessive barking. During our time together, I noticed he was favoring one of his front paws, sometimes walking on it, sometimes not. The shelter staff confirmed they’d observed the same limp when he first arrived.

This medical issue likely contributes to his behavioral problems. A dog in pain or discomfort can’t be expected to behave perfectly, yet without proper veterinary care and diagnosis, potential adopters only see the barking and the limping. These are red flags that keep them walking past his kennel.

The Adoption Challenge

Basset hounds make incredible family dogs, but they’re not for everyone. They require dedicated owners willing to provide proper exercise, scent training, and consistent behavioral guidance. Too often, people adopt them because they’re adorable: those long ears, droopy eyes, and bodies that seem stretched like cartoon characters. But when the reality of owning a scent hound sets in, these dogs end up back in shelters, sometimes repeatedly.

Each return chips away at their ability to trust, making it harder for them to bond with a permanent family. Bobby’s three shelter visits in 30 days exemplify this heartbreaking cycle.

A Shelter Worth Praising

I want to address something important about Chula Vista Animal Services. When I posted about Bobby, some commenters criticized the shelter’s concrete kennels and conditions. But having visited shelters across the country, I can tell you this facility is doing exceptional work under challenging circumstances.

They’re operating at 150% capacity, with all foster homes full. Yet they’ve kept dogs for over 400 days, fighting for each one when other shelters might have given up. Those concrete floors aren’t cruelty; they’re necessity. Municipal shelters need surfaces they can properly disinfect with the constant turnover of animals.

The appearance of a shelter often reflects the resources available in its community. Wealthy areas have pristine facilities; communities with fewer resources do the best they can. Chula Vista falls into the latter category, but their dedication to these animals is undeniable.

The Decision

Standing in that kennel with Bobby, I faced a familiar internal conflict. My brain listed all the logical reasons not to take him: we’re at capacity at the farm with Pumpkin, Lily, and the two boxer rescues Harley and Diesel. We’d need to quarantine him. The veterinary care for his paw could be expensive. The behavioral training would take time and patience.

But my heart had a different answer.

I called Angelica, who helps manage the farm, to discuss logistics. Could we move the boxers to make room? Set up temporary space in the house like we did before? The challenges were real, but so was Bobby’s need.

After walking out of that kennel to think, I realized I’d been in this position before: called to help someone in need when everything in my brain said it would be easier to walk away. And every time, my heart has led me to the right decision.

Bobby is coming to the farm.

The Road Ahead

We don’t have everything figured out yet. We’ll need to determine what’s wrong with his paw. Is it broken? Sprained? Nerve damage? The diagnostics and treatment won’t be cheap, but thanks to the support of our community and the success of our supplement line, we can provide Bobby with the medical care and behavioral training he desperately needs.

He deserves guidance, not abandonment. He deserves a chance to learn that homes can be permanent, that people can be trusted, and that his incredible nose can be an asset rather than a liability.

Progress with the Boxers

In better news, Harley and Diesel (our two boxer rescues) just received a clean bill of health from the vet. No distemper, no kennel cough. We were so worried they had kennel cough, but they’re completely clear.

Diesel isn’t deaf, as we’d suspected given her white coat and multi-colored eyes. She just jumps at every sound, a sign of her fearful past. Both dogs are slowly adjusting to farm life. They’re running, playing fetch, and Diesel even took a treat from me, which is a major milestone. Harley’s been giving kisses, and while they’re still jumpy and healing will take time, they’re making real progress.

The Importance of Proper Nutrition

Getting these dogs healthy starts with what we feed them and how we support their recovery. I’ve put Harley and Diesel on high-quality food and my custom supplement regimen, which I haven’t talked much about because I’ve been obsessing over getting the formulations just right.

I’ll be honest: my supplements are a little pricier than most on the market. But when you read the ingredient deck, you’ll understand why. Most supplements out there infuriate me because they’re just marketing speak. You’re really just throwing your money away. I refuse to do that to people who’ve put their trust and loyalty in me.

I see firsthand the results these supplements have on rescue dogs: improvements in their skin and coat, their overall healthiness. You can feel it and see it.

Results may vary, obviously, but here’s what makes them different:

Gut Health Support: If the gut’s off, everything’s off. You’ve probably heard that before, but I see it firsthand when dogs come in for rehabilitation. Their gut is always compromised. My supplements support the microbiome in its purest form. They’re in powder format, not pills, which takes extra time to add to food but means they’re not cooked or processed. This ensures maximum effectiveness and immediate results.

Joint Support: A lot of dogs I bring in, whether seniors or not, already show signs of joint issues. My joint support goes much deeper than just glucosamine. I’ve added green-lipped mussel, which helps with inflammation. I don’t care how much glucosamine you give; if the inflammation is still there, the problem won’t go away. For senior dogs, it’s crucial. But if you start with a dog that’s three, two, or even a puppy, they’ll be so much further ahead when their joints start wearing out.

Skin and Coat Support: These rescued dogs need it desperately. Harley and Diesel have been bathed, but their coats are still so coarse. It’s a visible sign of their previous neglect and poor nutrition.

I know most supplement commercials show dogs bouncing around at their happiest, full of joy. But I think it’s important to see them in their current state, still scared, still healing, because this is where they start. Where they end is in a happy home, hopefully staying healthy the entire time because they’re getting supported with great diet and supplements that keep them well-rounded.

I could go on, but I don’t want to put you to sleep. Just check them out. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed. Visit RockyKanaka.com/supplements.

How You Can Help

The biggest way to support Bobby and dogs like him is simple: subscribe and follow along on this journey. Watch as we diagnose and treat his paw, work through his behavioral challenges, and help him become the incredible companion he was meant to be.

We’ve got lots of cool stuff we’re doing that gives back to the farm and to the dogs. Every purchase of our supplements, every bit of support from our community, it all goes toward helping dogs like Bobby get the second chances they deserve.

Because every dog deserves someone willing to see past their problems to their potential. Every dog deserves someone whose heart speaks louder than their brain’s logical objections.

Bobby deserves that someone. And now, he has it.

As a rescue advocate, I have learned that fear shrinks the moment you move toward it, but you have to move slowly. Boxers are incredibly sensitive, emotional dogs. When they are in this state, their bodies are flooded with cortisol, which can lead to reactive behavior if not handled with extreme care. I tried to offer a treat, but she was too shut down to even notice it. It breaks my heart when a dog is so traumatized they can’t even accept a gift.

A Sibling Connection Revealed

There was no information on Harley’s kennel card when I arrived, but my colleague Alexis began digging into the records. What she found was a reality check on why these dogs end up in the shelter system. Harley had been surrendered only three hours earlier because her owners were moving.

The most critical detail, however, was that Harley didn’t come alone. She was surrendered alongside her brother, Diesel. They had been together since they were puppies, purchased from a breeder three years ago. In the chaos of the intake process, they had been separated for health checks. Harley wasn’t just scared of the shelter; she was grieving the sudden loss of her home and her lifelong companion.

The Power of Reassurance

I spent time speaking softly to Harley, using positive affirmations to let her know this wasn’t her fault. I carried my soul dog Flip’s tags with me, a reminder of the loyalty this breed is capable of. Eventually, Harley allowed me to pet her. She remained tense, but the stress-panting began to slow.

I knew that if we didn’t intercept her fear now, she might stay tucked in the shadows of the kennel, making her much less likely to be adopted. Statistics tell us that dogs who greet visitors at the front of the gate find homes faster. To give her that chance, I knew we had to reunite her with Diesel.

Reunited and a Path to the Farm

When I brought Diesel into the kennel, the change was instantaneous. The two siblings immediately sandwiched together, leaning into each other for support. Diesel was the more outgoing of the two, acting as a natural leader for his sister. While they were both dirty and clearly lacked recent care—showing signs of “fish scale” noses and chapped lips—their spirits began to lift the moment they were back together.

My wife, Kelly, and I made a quick decision. We were going to pull them both to Flip Farms. Our farm is specifically designed for dogs like this to rehabilitate and heal in a quiet, green environment far away from the clanging metal and barking of the shelter.

A Fresh Start Through Grooming

Before heading to the farm, I asked the shelter groomer, Mel, to step in. For dogs like Harley and Diesel, a bath is more than just hygiene; it’s a sensory reset. Mel worked her magic, starting with Diesel. Even with the “scary monster” blow dryer, he stood like a champion.

Harley was more apprehensive, but seeing her brother return clean and calm gave her the courage to follow Mel. When they were finished, they looked like different dogs. Their coats were shining, their white patches were crisp, and they stood taller. They were finally carrying themselves with a bit of confidence.

The Journey Home

Carrying them out to my truck was a heavy moment. They didn’t know they were safe yet, but I did. As we drove toward the farm, Diesel eventually popped his head up to look out the window, his ears flopping in the wind.

We got them settled into their own personal “doggy condo” at the farm, a quiet Quonset hut filled with soft beds and toys. Here, they can decompress at their own speed. Whether it takes two weeks or nine months, they will stay with us until we find the perfect family to adopt them as a pair. This is why we grow our coffee and build this community—so that dogs like Harley and Diesel never have to be alone in the fog again.

Next Steps

If you want to adopt Harley & Diesel

They’re going to be available for adoption after decompression and vet follow-ups. If you’re serious about giving them the kind of home they deserved all along, get your application in early. The right match matters more than the fastest match.

If you want to help but can’t adopt

• Share their story. One share can reach the person who says, “That’s my dog.”
• Support the work through Flip Coffee. That’s how we keep doing this without waiting on miracles.

Because these two? They’re not just rescue cases.

They’re the first Flip Farms dogs of 2026.

And I can already see the version of them that’s coming back.

I remember telling him he was a good boy, over and over, hoping somehow it would land. He was spicy, sure, but underneath that was a dog carrying way too much stress and fear. In that moment, I knew something. I didn’t want him to have to live like that anymore.

So we made a commitment. We pulled Bodie from the shelter and brought him to Flip’s Farm.

The Hard Work No One Sees

Rehabilitation isn’t a montage. It’s slow. It’s quiet. It’s patience on repeat.

At the farm, Bodie needed time to learn that he didn’t have to defend himself anymore. That no one was going to grab him, rush him, or disappear. Even moving from room to room in the house was a big deal for him. Every threshold was a question: Am I safe here too?

With the help of our team and the other farm pups, Lily and Pumpkin, Bodie started to soften. Not all at once. Not dramatically. But enough that I knew when the time came, he’d be ready.

Match Made in Heaven

When we announced he was available for adoption, the response was incredible. So many people saw themselves in Bodie. But one connection stood out.

Kelsey applied. Then she applied again.

She worried her first application didn’t fully capture how strongly she felt. She had recently lost her dog, Yoda, and wasn’t actively looking. But when she saw Bodie’s shelter video, something clicked. Yoda had been shut down too. She recognized that look immediately.

“This is my dog,” she said. And she was right.

A New Year, A New Life

Bodie spent Christmas with us at the farm, then headed into the new year with something he’d never really had before: a family of his own.

Kelsey’s parents, Abby and Alan, drove in from states away to support their daughter and meet their new “granddog.” Every dog at Flip’s Farm signs the book with a paw print before they leave, but Bodie was still a little nervous. That’s okay. He’ll mail his signature in later. He’s earned that grace.

Now Bodie is settling into life in San Francisco, starting over as Bodie by the Bay.

From shutdown to safe. From invisible to deeply loved.

From all of us, thank you to everyone who made his journey possible. Stories like Bodie’s are why we do this. And if you ever wonder whether patience, kindness, and showing up really matter, just look at him now.

I’ve met countless dogs over the years, but few have left an impression like Hoss. This Neapolitan Mastiff was a true gentle giant—massive in stature, with a heart every bit as grand. From the moment he arrived, it was clear he bore more than just his considerable size; he carried the weight of suffering, his once-magnificent coat overwhelmed by a relentless infestation. (Watch Video Above)

Mel, our dedicated groomer, took to the task like a warrior in a battle. She started with a meticulous application of flea and tick shampoo, creating a barrier at his neck, ensuring none of the critters could escape to his head. As she worked, her fingers found the bumps of ticks hidden in his fur, a testament to his silent suffering.

The shampoo had to sit, and as we waited, the gravity of Hoss’s condition became heartbreakingly clear. The ticks began to emerge from his skin, even from between his toes, revealing the extent of his neglect. Mel’s resolve never wavered. She removed each tick with a precision that spoke of her years of experience and a compassion that could only come from the heart.

Hoss, for his part, remained stoic, a testament to his extraordinary nature. He allowed Mel to clean his ears and stood patiently as she worked through his coat, tick by tick. By the time he was draped in a bandana, looking every bit the regal creature he was meant to be, it was clear Hoss was not just groomed; he was reborn.

2. Benny’s Foxtail Fiasco: A Transformation That Will Shock You

Then there was Benny, a labradoodle with a coat as wild as the foxtails that had become entangled within it. His arrival at the shelter was marked by anxiety and pain, his eyes darting around, body tense. Mel knew the task at hand was delicate. She began by cutting away the mats, revealing the skin that had been hidden beneath. Benny flinched, the discomfort evident, but Mel’s gentle touch and soothing words provided a balm to his anxiety.

As she bathed him with medicated shampoo, the transformation was palpable. With each rinse, more of the painful stickies were washed away, and Benny’s true spirit began to shine through. The drying process was a spectacle, with foxtails flying off as if in a hurry to leave behind the dog they had tormented. When the last of the stickies was removed, Benny’s relief was immediate. He emerged not just cleaner, but with a newfound confidence, his tail wagging as if to say, “I am ready for my new life.” And indeed, he was, for shortly after his grooming, he found his forever home.

3. Simba’s Matted Mess Makeover: A Tale of Hope and Second Chances

Simba’s story was one that would tug at the heartstrings of even the most seasoned shelter staff. A senior dog with a once-fluffy coat that had turned into a prison of mats and sores. His previous owners had surrendered him, not caring to look back at the polar bear of a dog whose eyes still held a glimmer of hope. Mel’s task was monumental. As she began to work through the mats, it was clear that Simba’s neglect ran deep. The mats were so tight they had caused sores, and his tail had become a heavy burden he dragged around.

The grooming session was a marathon, with Mel and Cheryl, our volunteer coordinator, working in tandem to free Simba from his painful past. The bath was a revelation, the water turning murky as years of neglect were washed away. Simba stood through it all, a stoic figure finding comfort in the hands of those who cared. The drying took time, his double coat holding onto water as if it were memories of his past. But as he emerged, it was as if he was shedding years of sorrow, his transformation not just physical but spiritual. Simba’s adoption on the very same day was a victory for all of us, a reminder of why we do what we do.

4. Greta’s Silent Suffering: How a Neglected Dog Found Her Voice

Greta’s eyes told a story of silent suffering. She was heartbreakingly skinny, her body bearing the signs of overbreeding. Yet, when she arrived at the shelter, she was met with love at first sight from the staff. Her eagerness to jump into the tub for Mel was a sign of trust, a willingness to embrace the care we were ready to give. Her coat was filthy, a testament to a life of neglect, possibly spent in someone’s backyard, forgotten and unloved.

Mel’s care was transformative. With each wash, Greta’s true self began to emerge. The dirt that clung to her coat was washed away, revealing a spirit that refused to be dimmed by her past. When she caught sight of herself in the mirror, post-groom, her excitement was palpable. She was more than her breed; she was a survivor, her behavior during the grooming session nothing short of exemplary.

The sap that clung to her neck was a final reminder of her past life, but once removed, she was free. Adorned with a pink bandana, Greta was ready to start anew. Her journey to recovery would be a long one, but with the help of the Rancho Coastal Humane Society, who renamed her Guadalupe, she was on her way to finding a family that would give her the love she deserved.

The Battle Against Neglect

Each of these dogs, Hoss, Benny, Simba, and Greta, came to us carrying the weight of their pasts. But through the love and dedication of our shelter staff and volunteers, they were given a chance at a new life. Their stories are a testament to the resilience of the canine spirit and the transformative power of care and compassion.

Bagel looks like a little bit of everything, which is exactly why the staff nicknamed him after an everything bagel. He’s a six-month-old Australian Cattle Dog mix with striking eyes and those expressive “human” eyebrows. But despite his good looks, he was so brand new to the shelter environment—less than 24 hours in—that he was in a state of total shutdown.

Why Bagel Was Left Behind

As I worked to get Bagel to take a treat, Alexis looked into his backstory. It’s a story we hear often, but it never gets easier. Bagel had a family who had raised him from the time he was a tiny puppy. However, with a new baby on the way, the parents became worried. They feared his high “cattle dog” energy would be too much to manage with a newborn, so they made the difficult choice to surrender him.

I have a lot of empathy for families in that position. Having a baby changes everything, and sometimes the stress of prep can feel overwhelming. But it meant that at just six months old, Bagel’s entire world had vanished.

Breaking the Silence

The breakthrough with Bagel happened the moment his nose started working. In a shelter, the noise is constant—barking, metal gates clanging, and echoes everywhere. I try to talk through my sessions to create a “wall of sound” that feels safe and predictable.

When Bagel finally reached forward and took a treat from my hand, his posture shifted. He went from a statue to a puppy. We discovered he already knew how to sit, which proved someone had spent time with him. Once he realized I was a friend, he wasn’t just a scared shelter dog anymore; he was a bouncy, lick-happy puppy ready for a second chance.

The Perfect Match

A few days after our session, a military member named Joseph came to the shelter looking for a potential service dog. He had met almost every dog available but hadn’t found the right connection. As he was heading toward the exit, a staff member remembered Bagel.

Because of his initial fear, Bagel wasn’t even on the public floor yet, but the staff knew he had potential. It was love at first sight for Joseph and his wife. Today, Bagel is living his best life with a Husky sibling, lounging on couches, and traveling the world with his military family.

The Grieving Mama: Chelsea’s Journey to Becoming Daisy

If Bagel was the puppy everyone overlooked, Chelsea was the dog who broke everyone’s heart. She was a senior American Bulldog mix with a “bully frown” that seemed permanent. When I first sat with her, she was hiding behind me, using my back as a shield.

A Life Used for Profit

Chelsea was found as a stray near a local baseball stadium, running alongside a male dog. It didn’t take long to realize her history. Her body showed the clear signs of a dog that had been used for repeated breeding. She was malnourished, had scars on her shoulders, and her skin was in rough shape.

It’s a reality of the rescue world: when breeding dogs are no longer “profitable,” they are often dumped like trash. Chelsea acted like a dog who had never had a name, never had a toy, and never knew that a human hand could bring anything other than work.

A Commitment Through Sickness

After our session, Chelsea’s journey took a scary turn. She came down with a severe case of kennel cough and had to be moved into medical isolation. Most adopters would have walked away, but a woman named Heather saw my video and knew Chelsea was her dog.

Even when the shelter told Heather she couldn’t meet Chelsea because she was sick, Heather didn’t budge. She waited. She committed to an “unseen” dog because she saw the soul behind those wrinkles.

Healing at Home

Today, Chelsea has a new name: Daisy. Her new mom, Heather, spent the first few weeks sleeping on a blow-up mattress next to her to make sure she felt safe. Daisy is finally learning how to play with toys and has discovered that she actually loves watching TV. She went from a nameless breeding dog to a spoiled senior who wags her whole “tush” when her dad comes home.

These updates are the reason we do what we do. No dog is too far gone, and no fear is too deep to be healed by a little patience and a lot of love.

The puppy, named Dottie, was originally brought to Animal Friends of the Valleys under a law enforcement welfare check. Her recovery and subsequent adoption have captured the attention of thousands, leading to an unexpected reunion with a long-lost sibling.

A Case of Extreme Neglect

Dottie’s journey began under grim circumstances. She was surrendered to animal control after a family member reported a case of severe neglect involving a relative. When she arrived at the facility, Dottie weighed only 56 pounds. For a Mastiff of her age and frame, a healthy weight would typically exceed 100 pounds.

“It stops you in your tracks,” said pet advocate Rocky Kanaka, who sat with the puppy shortly after her intake. “She was the definition of emaciated. Her head was actually concave from muscle wasting. This wasn’t just a dog that missed a few meals; this was months of starvation.”

Dottie was processed under California Penal Code 597, which pertains to animal neglect and cruelty. Because of her fragile state, shelter staff had to implement a strict “re-feeding” protocol. Giving an emaciated dog unlimited food too quickly can be fatal, so Dottie was started on small, frequent meals to slowly restart her metabolism.

The Long Drive to Texas

Despite her physical condition, Dottie’s gentle temperament shone through in rescue videos shared online. Those videos reached Marsha and Todd, a couple living in Texas who felt an immediate connection to the dog.

Because Dottie was too large to fit in a standard airplane crate for transport, the couple decided to take matters into their own hands. They drove across the country to Southern California to meet the puppy in person. The meet-and-greet was a success, with Dottie showing immediate comfort around her new family.

“She finally feels safe enough to curl up in a ball and just rest,” Marsha shared in a recent update. Dottie is now living a “spoiled life” in Texas, where she is slowly gaining weight on a veterinarian-approved diet of high-quality food supplemented with fresh chicken and vegetables.

A Surprise Sibling Reunion

Shortly after Dottie left for Texas, a surprise twist emerged at the shelter. A second emaciated Mastiff puppy was brought in separately. Following a review of the intake records and physical traits, staff confirmed the new arrival, named Daisy, was Dottie’s sister.

The news of the “Mastiff Sisters” sparked a second wave of support. Before Daisy could even be featured in a formal rescue video, she was adopted by a woman named Shawna.

Today, the two sisters are both thriving in their respective homes. Marsha and Shawna have remained in contact, sharing photos and updates as the puppies grow. Both dogs are receiving treatment for “fly strike” wounds on their ears and are learning basic commands, proving that even after extreme trauma, a stable home can provide a complete mental and physical reset.

But here is the truth. Shelter dogs do not get saved by caution. They get saved by action.

Flip Farms is not just land. It is not just coffee. It is not just a rescue. It is survival. For them. And if I am honest, for us too. (Watch Video Above)

The Surprise That Tied It All Together

When someone called and said, “I have the perfect thing for you,” I said yes before I even finished the sentence. A 1952 Royal Spartan trailer. Vintage. Solid. Rough around the edges on the outside and stunning where it counts, on the inside. Kind of my spirit animal, honestly.

This trailer is where it all clicks. The grind of coffee. The grit of farming. The work of dog rescue. All funding one mission that absolutely has to succeed.

It is twice the work. The stakes are high. And caffeine will absolutely be involved.

Coffee, Dogs, and a Little Holiday Chaos

We kicked things off the only way we know how. Dogs underfoot. Christmas decorations everywhere. A tree that was way harder to decorate in the middle of a field than anyone tells you.

Bodie was there, watching it all unfold. If you remember him, Kelly walked him out of the shelter herself because he was in such rough shape. He is the kind of dog who makes you slow down whether you planned to or not.

Bodie’s Backstory (And Why Progress Is Not Linear)

Bodie is a small dog carrying a big history. Trauma like his does not disappear when the door opens and the leash comes off. New spaces, echoes, decorations, even joy can feel overwhelming.

So we go slow. Very slow.

He has learned that my lap is safe. He has learned that treats mean good things. He has learned that he does not have to rush the world anymore. Some days look like huge wins. Some days look like one step back. That is not failure. That is healing.

Training Takeaway

If you foster or adopt a shelter dog, expect decompression. Quiet spaces. Routine. Let the dog lead. Progress is still progress even when it is messy.

Treats Matter More Than You Think

We brought out fresh baked dog treats from The Dog Bakery. Wheat free, yogurt, unsweetened applesauce, peanut butter. Nothing fancy. Everything intentional.

For Bodie, taking a treat was not about food. It was about trust. Watching him sniff, hesitate, and finally accept it was a glimpse of hope. That moment matters more than people realize.

Sharing the Moment With Our Firefighter Neighbors

We ended up gifting our Christmas tree to the firefighters who just moved in near the farm. First responders who show up without hesitation deserve way more than words. Especially here in California, where fire and land and community intersect daily.

That tree belonged with them.

The Big Reveal: Our Coffee Trailer

Then came the moment. The trailer reveal.

Inside, everything was ready. Espresso machine. Cold brew tap. Space to stand (important when you are six foot four). A place to serve coffee to volunteers, neighbors, and anyone who wants to come meet the dogs.

This trailer is also going to be home to Dogs and Coffee podcast episodes right here on the farm. No rush. No noise. Just dogs, conversation, and purpose.

What Comes Next

We are not open to the public yet. Permits first. Polish second. But this is coming to life.

Bodie is now officially available for adoption and needs a calm, patient person who understands anxiety is not a flaw. It is a chapter.

Flip Farms is growing one careful step at a time. Coffee will help fund rescue. Rescue will change lives. And if we do this right, nobody has to play it safe.

Have a coffee. Save a dog. We are just getting started.

This was her first full day in the shelter.

I knew that before I ever sat down. The team had warned me she was extremely frightened, and the way she held herself told the rest of the story. Syndey wasn’t reacting. She was shut down.

For a senior dog, especially one who clearly came from a home, that kind of fear usually means loss.

A Family Dog Who Lost Everything

As I sat with Syndey, Alexis looked into her intake notes. What she found explained everything.

Syndey had an owner. A home. A life. Then her owner died from cancer.

After that loss, a family member tried to take responsibility for her. For reasons we don’t fully know, they were no longer able to care for her, and Syndey was brought to the shelter. There was no medical history. No notes about her routine. No details about how she did with other animals or kids.

The only thing that came with her was her name.

That kind of sudden transition is devastating for any dog. For a senior, it can be paralyzing.

Sitting With a Dog Who Couldn’t Move Yet

When I first offered Syndey a treat, she didn’t take it. I tried again, placing it farther away so she wouldn’t feel pressured. Still nothing.

So I sat down.

I kept my body turned away and my voice calm. I talked, not to demand interaction, but to make the space feel predictable. In a shelter, silence can feel dangerous. Noise can feel overwhelming. Calm, steady sound gives dogs something to anchor to.

Eventually, I offered a longer piece of treat from my hand. Syndey hesitated, then gently took it. Her lips were soft. Careful. That told me everything I needed to know about who she really was.

She wasn’t aggressive. She wasn’t difficult. She was grieving.

Why This Boxer Felt So Familiar to Me

Syndey’s frosted face hit me harder than I expected. She looks a lot like Flip did toward the end. Same soft eyes. Same senior Boxer expression that carries both gentleness and exhaustion.

Flip shaped who I am in rescue. Sitting with Syndey brought all of that right back. It made the moment heavier, but it also made it clearer. Dogs like her don’t need fixing. They need time and safety.

When I said her name out loud, Syndey reacted. Her head shifted. Her eyes softened just a bit.

Hearing your name matters when you’ve lost everything else.

Small Steps That Matter

I worked slowly, watching Syndey’s body language and backing off when she needed space. Each treat helped her nervous system settle a little more. She was still jumpy. Still tense. But she was no longer frozen.

Kelly joined me briefly so Syndey could get used to more than one calm presence. Even that small change was a lot for her. This is what people don’t see when they scroll past a kennel photo. For some dogs, just existing in this environment takes everything they have.

Syndey was also clearly uncomfortable physically. She was dirty and appeared to need dental care. I asked if Mel, the shelter groomer, could give her a bath. For dogs like Cindy, grooming isn’t about appearance. It’s about relief.

A Senior Dog Who Needs a Soft Landing

By the time I left Syndey, she wasn’t transformed into a tail-wagging social butterfly. That’s not how real healing works.

But she was taking treats. She was responding to her name. She was beginning to trust that people weren’t going to disappear the moment she leaned in.

Syndey is now available for adoption at Animal Friends of the Valleys. She needs a quiet home, patience, and someone who understands that senior dogs come with history, not baggage.

She had a family once. She loved someone deeply. Losing that doesn’t make her less deserving of love now.

It makes her need it more.