From the moment our dogs step into our homes, they become cherished family members. We provide them with love, care, and a safe environment—everything they need to live happy, fulfilling lives.
That’s why it’s heartbreaking to know that so many dogs are abandoned by the very people they trusted the most.
La-Z-Boy Gatson is one of the many abandoned dogs who faithfully waited for his owners, not understanding they would never return.
Waiting On A Deserted Road
Source: Sharon Norton
In June 2019, a 4-month-old puppy was discovered abandoned along Gatson Road in Lincoln County, Mississippi. Clinging to a recliner chair beside a discarded TV, the little pup sat helplessly, waiting for someone who would never return.
Animal Control Officer Sharon Norton responded to the scene and was deeply moved by what she found—a frail puppy, clearly starving and weak from days without food, yet his eyes still sparkled with hope.
Despite his hunger and fragile state, the puppy stayed rooted to the chair, unable to comprehend that he had been abandoned. His loyalty kept him from leaving the spot where he last felt safe.
Feeling Relaxed And Safe
Source: Sharon Norton
Norton gently approached the puppy and offered him food. The little pooch eagerly accepted the treats, his eyes lighting up with gratitude as he realized someone finally cared for him. Norton spoke to him softly, offering the comforting words he so desperately needed to hear.
Slowly, the puppy began to relax, his fear melting away as Norton earned his trust.
“He was very happy when I picked him up and carried him to the animal control truck. I could feel his tail hitting my back, wagging. He knows he’s safe now,” Norton shared.
Norton brought the puppy to the Brookhaven City Shelter, where he received a warm bath and treatment for ringworm. Once stabilized, he was transferred to the Brookhaven Animal Rescue League to continue his recovery journey.
In honor of the recliner and the road where he was found, Norton named him La-Z-Boy.
The rescue staff quickly noticed La-Z-Boy’s friendly and playful nature. He loved napping, making new friends, and splashing around in water—one of his favorite activities. His sociable personality earned him many playmates at the shelter.
After regaining his health, La-Z-Boy was placed in foster care with hopes of finding a forever home. Fortunately, he didn’t have to wait long.
His Happy Ending
Source: @lazboy.gatson
In July 2019, La-Z-Boy Gatson joyfully announced on his Instagram account that he had found his forever home and a loving family.
His new parents, Dave Trammell and Sommer Guy, were so moved by his story that they drove over 15 hours from Michigan to Mississippi to meet and adopt him.
“Something about the way he looked just touched me. He just looked so cute and sad,” Trammell shared.
La-Z-Boy quickly settled into his new home, adapting with ease and finding comfort in his surroundings. Within days, he was already sleeping belly-up—a clear sign of trust and relaxation.
“I think he just wanted to have a home. You could tell he was really appreciative when we got here,” Trammell said.
Now living in Plymouth, Michigan, La-Z-Boy enjoys every moment with his loving family. He still adores long naps and happily joins his dog sister, Penelope, on joyful car rides.
It’s heartwarming to know that La-Z-Boy is finally living his best life, surrounded by love, care, and the happiness he always deserved.