They say tough roads lead to the best destinations, and Bubby’s journey proves it. Found as a stray in California, covered in bite wounds, he didn’t even know how to be a dog. Used as a bait dog his entire life, Bubby was a victim of cruelty—until a group of compassionate rescuers gave him the chance he never had.
Bubby’s recovery was anything but guaranteed. He needed someone willing to invest endless time and patience to guide him through his transformation. Thankfully, the perfect person was just around the corner!
Bubby’s Backstory
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Covered in wounds and alone, Bubby was taken to Stanislaus Shelter Friends, where he spent two months receiving care. Sadly, he ended up on the euthanasia list—but the compassionate team at South County Tail Waggers swooped in and saved him just in time.
When Katharine welcomed Bubby into her life, she had no idea what she was signing up for. He was completely shut down, unfamiliar with human kindness and unsure how to navigate the world around him.
Source: @big.head.boys
The moment Bubby stepped into his new momma’s home, he found a soft bed, curled up, and didn’t move. He slept there for 24 hours straight, finally safe enough to rest.
Bubby needed time to adjust to the reality that he finally had someone to shower him with love and affection. Fortunately, Katharine had all the time and patience in the world to give.
As a park ranger at the stunning Pinnacles National Park in California, Katharine offered Bubby more than just a safe home—he now had endless space to roam, explore, and discover life beyond survival.
With time, Bubby slowly came out of his shell, showing affection to his housemates. But emotional healing takes time, and Bubby found the perfect source of comfort—his blankie.
Every morning, he grabs his blanket from his bed and carries it around the house, a small gesture that helps him feel safe.
Katharine understands that a tiny piece of Bubby’s past will likely always linger. But she finds peace in knowing he’s learned how to cope.
“I know he still remembers his past because sometimes it comes back to haunt him, and he needs extra comfort and reassurance. But I also know he’s truly happy, fulfilled, and forgiving, to the point where whatever happened before doesn’t matter anymore,” Katharine shared on Instagram.
“He knows he’s safe now, and I’ll never, ever let anyone hurt him again,” Katharine adds.
The Road To Emotional Recovery
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A few months after adopting Bubby, Katharine welcomed another rescue into the family—Simon, a fellow survivor of animal abuse. Having a sibling who truly understood his past was a gift for both Bubby and the entire household.
Day by day, Bubby’s heart opened wider, and he blossomed into the sweetest, cheekiest doggo, embracing the love and joy he had always deserved.
“He is completely unrecognizable from the dog I first met—not just physically, but emotionally too,” Katharine shared on Instagram. “He went from being depressed and suspicious to the cheeky, happy, zoomie boy he is today.”
In an Instagram video, Katharine explains how Bubby transformed from a depressed, broken dog into the heart of the family. He’s become her mind-reading soulmate, with their bond growing stronger every single day.
Rather than being defined by his painful past, Bubby has turned it into a source of strength. Today, he’s more than just a survivor—he’s an emotional support companion for everyone in the family.
Source: @big.head.boys
Alongside his lifelong companions, Bubby now embraces endless adventures. From hiking trails to road trips and joyful days by the ocean, he’s living the life he never knew was possible.
Bubby always wants to be close to his humans. If dad’s in the hammock or mom’s relaxing on the couch, he’ll wiggle his way in, making sure there’s room for one more. Long cuddle sessions are his favorite way to show love.
Once an abused dog, Bubby is now a brand-new boi, soaking up every moment of his beautiful new life!