Near Orlando, Florida, a 12-year-old abandoned senior doesn’t want to die. On Sunday, Orange County Animal Services named him Leon, but a “rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” When shelter volunteer, Cris Ferreira Reed met him, her heart broke as the lonely do

g reached out for a reassuring hug. And for a frozen moment in time, bonding with this neglected dog unraveled a bit of his story:

“This guy is 12 yrs old. He has no name yet, but I’ve been calling him “GRAYSON”. He has had a rough life and his skin needs so me severe TLC. He also has no teeth; like many seniors he doesn’t hear well, walks slow and seemed not to care about me, so I hugged him… And suddenly, he hugged me back. He buried his face on me and enjoyed the kindness. He is also good with all dogs. Please help me share him for a home to spend his last days.”

Click here for this boy’s adoption listing. Animal ID: A375382    Room No.: WD71  “Hi, the Shelter named me Leon. I am an approximately 12 year old brown and tan male.  I have not been tested for heartworms. I weigh approximately 52 pounds. I have been at Orange County Animal Services since Friday, April 21, 2017. If you are looking for me, please come to Orange County Animal Services at 2769 Conroy Rd., Orlando, FL. The phone number is (407)836-3111.” A Facebook page for this senior can be followed here.

As to the dog’s medical records available, please note the following:

“Meet Leon! This cutie is in need of rescue due to age and medical: “Skin/Coat: hair loss and warts all thru head and trunk/body Location/

Type of wounds/hairloss (if applicable): Ambulation: gait abnormality rear legs due to arthritis Elimination:No Additional observatio

ns: Bilateral cataracts but animal can still see well Assessment: Old arthritic dog Recommendation(s): Rx Rimadyl 100 mg bID for 5 days, and posible an outcome when time is up” “Additional observations: scratching at intrascapular area Assessment: reported fleas Recommendation: request Activyl with kennel. LH/DVM” Please let us know if anyone can take him!”

It continues to sadden advocates when dogs, when at the time in their lives need their families the most, they are abandoned or surrendered, but be the perso

n who can make a difference. Whether Leon has one week, one year or more, he deserves better. Share his plight with approved rescue organizations, friends, familyand social media contacts. Sharing saves lives.

(Photos of dog who rea ched out for reassuring hug courtesy of Orange County Animal Services and Chris Ferreira Reed.)