This Wirehaired Dapple Dachshund Survived Starvation—Now Otto’s Searching for the Safe, Loving Home He Deserves
Here's What You Need To Know:
- Pending Adoption? no
- Pet's Location: shelbyville TN, 37160
- Pet's Size: small
- Pet's Gender: male
- Pet's Color: black with tan, yellow or fawn
- Pet's Breed: Dachshund / Mixed (medium coat)
- Pet good with dogs? yes
- Pet good with cats? no
- Pet good with kids? no
Organization:
- Name: all american dachshund rescue
- Address: 377 Comstock Rd., Shelbyville, TN 37160
- Site: http://allamericandachshundrescue.org
When Otto was rescued, he weighed just 7 pounds—barely more than a bag of sugar. The three-year-old wirehaired Dachshund had endured unimaginable neglect, found starving and alone in a home where three of his siblings and both parents had already died of starvation.
Otto’s life before rescue was filled with deprivation and fear. Thankfully, a compassionate family intervened, pulling him from the cruel environment he had somehow survived. But Otto was more than physically malnourished—he was emotionally shut down and overwhelmed, unaccustomed to love or security. When his temporary family realized his needs were greater than they could manage, they reached out for help, and All American Dachshund Rescue immediately stepped in.
Why Otto Deserves a Second Chance
Otto is now 12 pounds and gaining strength each day—not just physically, but emotionally too. He’s currently working with a trainer to overcome his fear and socialization struggles. Despite his rough beginnings, there’s a sweet, gentle soul underneath that wiry coat. He’s learning what it means to be safe, to be part of a family, and to just be a dog.
💔 Survived starvation and profound neglect
🏡 Currently in training to build confidence
🧸 Good with other small dogs
🚫 Not suited for homes with young children or cats
What Otto Needs
Because of his past trauma, Otto requires a calm, structured environment where he can continue healing and blossoming. The ideal home will meet the following must-haves:
✔️ Fenced yard (no apartments or condos)
✔️ Someone home often—he needs companionship and routine
✔️ Another young, small dog for play and emotional support
✔️ Adults or children over 14 only
Otto is neutered, up to date on vaccines, microchipped, and working on his housetraining. He’s crate trained (though not a fan of the crate), and he’s building confidence on a leash. What he lacks in experience, he makes up for in potential.
This sweet survivor is currently being fostered in Winston-Salem, NC. If you think your home could be the haven Otto has been waiting for, apply here or email his foster home at [email protected] to learn more.
