Great Pyrenees dogs are known for being incredible livestock guardians. But for Bear, a Great Pyrenees rescued from a horrific neglect situation in Arkansas, BISSELL Pet Foundation and Cabot Animal Support Services were the guardians he needed to get a must-deserved second chance at life.

At BPF, we’re proud to be a part of a pet’s journey to a happy, healthy life, whether through free spay/neuter clinics or a rescue flight from an overcrowded shelter to one with more space. However, helping a pet twice is an extra unique opportunity for us.

In early May 2022, BPF was alerted to a large-scale neglect situation in Conway County, Arkansas. There were 25 pets (17 dogs, 3 cats, and 5 potbellied pigs) left abandoned on a property after the owner’s arrest. BPF acted quickly after learning the local shelter wouldn’t be able to take in these pets. We made a call to team at Cabot Animal Support Services (CASS) to see if they had the capacity. CASS quickly stepped up to provide on-the-ground assistance to save the lives of these animals living in horrendous conditions. There was no electricity or running water, heaps of trash and numerous deceased dogs and other animals in various stages of decay.

As CASS worked to rescue the animals, a few dogs kept evading rescue attempts. One was the Great Pyrenees we now know as Bear. With hours left to spare in the timeline to remove the animals, Bear was finally able to be caught and taken into the care of the CASS team.

Upon intake, it was clear that Bear needed significant veterinary treatment. He was severely matted with fencing wire, sticks and burrs and feces throughout his coat. His dewclaws had grown into his skin, causing a significant infection in his rear legs. Bear’s anal glands were also infected and ruptured. To make matters worse, Bear had intestinal parasites, a tick-borne illness and tested positive for heartworm disease. He also had one of the worst double ear infections witnessed by the CASS team. It’s safe to say that without this lifesaving intervention, Bear would not have survived his ailments.

Just days into Bear’s recovery process, CASS participated in the May 2022 National Empty the Shelters event. A wonderful family seeking a livestock guardian-type dog saw Bear’s photo and information on CASS’ social media. They quickly met him after finding out he was a part of the event. Bear’s new family adopted him immediately and committed to getting him healthy and providing him with the best life possible.