Potato

Meet Potato.

When Potato was brough to Big Bear Veterinary Clinic in early July, he was so emaciated that he wasn't able to stand up. As staff worked desperately to save his life, he remained mostly unresponsive, except for slightly wagging his tail when staff spoke to him. Even on the verge of death, Potato wanted nothing more than love and affection from people - something he had never experienced before.

Dr. Kayla Lawlor, founder of Big Bear Ranch Rescue, fell in love with Potato immediately and took him in without a second thought, paying for his intensive treatments out of her own pocket. After days of critical care, Potato finally gained the strength to stand. He took a brief walk around the clinic grounds, soaking up the sun and learning what it was like to be treated gently by the person on the other end of the leash.

Now, three months later, a lot about Potato has changed. He's no longer the weak, emaciated pup on the verge of death that he was when Dr. Lawlor saved him. Today, Potato is an exuberant, goofy, joyful dog, determined to make up for the time he has lost. He's gained back 20 pounds and looks like a whole new dog. But despite all these changes, the most important thing about Potato has remained the same: receiving love from a kind human is still his favorite thing in the whole wide world.

Potato has been through more than anyone should ever go through, but his story is just beginning. We are excited to announce that Potato is finally medically cleared for adoption!

Potato still has a lot to learn! He was never given the chance to just be a dog, so he's still a puppy at heart despite our estimate that he's about 5 years old. He needs a family who will be kind and patient as he excitedly learns to navigate a world filled with the love he has always wanted. Most of all, he needs someone to call his own.

Could you be the best friend Potato has been waiting his entire life for? Are you the person that will make all his bravery and suffering worth it? Reach out to meet Potato! Potato is a goofy, sweet, happy boy. He absolutely loves people and his joy gets the best of him! He will need some help learning not to jump when he sees someone he loves, but he is incredibly smart and has been learning quickly. He is an absolutely lovebug. He loves dogs and gets very excited to see them. We recommend a cat free home as Potato doesn't always know his own strength!

Pet's Name: Potato
Dog: Primary Breed: Other, not listed
Primary Breed (if not in list): Pit Bull
Birthdate (an estimate is okay): 12/25/2021
Age Category: Adult
Where did you get your pet?: Potato was brought to Big Bear Vet after he was removed from an abusive situation by the police.
Was this pet ever in a shelter, rescue, or foster program? If yes, please provide details.: Yes, he is currently staying at Big Bear Veterinary clinic while he waits for his forever home.
Adoption Day (when did you adopt your pet? An estimate is okay.): Potato came to Big Bear Vet in July of 2026.
Gender: Male
Size (at full-grown): Medium
Approximate adult weight in pounds (number only): 45
Primary Color: White (Mostly)
What are your pet's favorite toys and activities?: Potato loves to cuddle and receive attention. He absolutely loves walks and puzzle toys.
Has your dog received any formal obedience training?: No
What commands does your dog know?: Sit, down, gentle, off, walking politely on leash.
How does your dog react to being left alone for short periods?: Perfect! But prefers company.
Are there any specific triggers that cause your dog anxiety or stress?: Cats - he gets too excited and can't calm down. We recommend a cat free home.
Medical History and Care:
Vaccinations up to date
Spayed or Neutered
House/Litter-Trained
Microchipped
Special Diet
Special Needs
Never Vetted
Unknown
Does your pet have any history of health issues or medical conditions that potential adopters should be aware of?: Potato is still working on gaining weight since he came to us extremely emaciated. He is otherwise healthy besides minor seasonal skin allergies.
Has your dog ever been diagnosed with or treated for any of the following? (Please check all that apply, even if your dog has fully recovered. This helps us provide the best support for future families.):
Allergies (environmental or food-related)
Anaplasmosis (tick-borne)
Anxiety Issues
Arthritis or Joint Pain
Canine Distemper
Chronic Ear Infections
Dental Disease
Ehrlichiosis (tick-borne)
Heartworm
Influenza
Kennel Cough
Leptospirosis
Lipomas, Cysts, or Other Lumps/Bumps
Lyme Disease
Parvovirus
Seizures
Skin Conditions
Vaccine Reactions
Other
Has your dog ever shown any challenging behaviors, such as biting a person or another pet? If so, please share some context.: No.
How often does your dog require grooming (e.g., bathing, brushing, trimming)? : Minimal, he is short haired and does not shed.
Does your dog have a dental care routine (e.g., brushing, chews, professional cleanings)?: No
Personality:
Playful
Constant Companion
High Energy
Medium Energy
Low Energy
Timid
Friendly to Strangers
Good with Other Dogs
Good with Cats
Good with Young Children
Bonded Pair
Purebred
Crate Trained
Comes When Called
Needs Training
Likes Car Rides
Likes to Swim
Requires A Fenced Yard
Jumps Fences
Growls at Strangers
Is Afraid of Storms
Digs
How is your dog with children?: Not sure: Haven't had enough interaction with children to determine.
How is your dog with other dogs?: Very friendly: Loves meeting and playing with other dogs.
How is your dog with cats?: Best in a home without cats: Has reacted to cats and should live in a home without them.
What's the most endearing thing about your dog?: Potato is an absolute lovebug who will melt into your lap and cuddle for as long as you let him.
What criteria are important to you when considering an adoptive family or home for your pet?: Potato needs help controlling his excitement and learning not to jump and pull when he gets excited. He is making great progress but needs a family that will continue to work with him and treat him with patience.
Why are you rehoming your pet (primary reason)?: Foster Pet
If applicable, do you have the legal right or necessary permission from the breeder or rescue organization to rehome this pet? :
Not Applicable
Yes
How long will you be able to keep your pet before you may need to consider surrendering him or her to a rescue?: Not an option, my pet will stay with me for as long as it takes
Who is your veterinarian?: Big Bear Veterinary Clinic
What do you feed your pet, and does he/she have any feeding quirks or preferences?: Dry adult dog food, Potato loves all food.
Do you currently have pet insurance?: No
Would you consider a long-distance adoption?:
Yes
No
Maybe
City, State: Hayesville, NC
Zip Code: 28904
How did you hear about us?: Rescue/Shelter
Referring Name (person, page, or organization, if applicable): Brother Wolf Animal Rescue bwar.org
Service Level: Priority Placement: Full Support + Accelerated Marketing