Rocco is a 3-year-old German Shepherd whose life took a major turn when his owners abandoned him at the shelter, just because they were having a baby. When Rocco was brought to Dallas Animal Services in Texas, he was underweight and terrified, in a state of total vulnerability.

One day, a visitor took a video of him and posted it online hoping to find him a family that would never abandon him again. That’s when Preethi Pillaipakkam, a foster through DFW German Shepherd Rescue, saw the video, and decided to give turn Rocco’s life around again, this time for the better. After some time, Preethi earned Rocco’s trust, and they soon became very close.

Rocco wouldn’t even leave her side, he became just like a shadow for his new mom. After Rocco’s video went viral, Pillaipakkam made him an Instagram account to inspire more people to adopt large-breed dogs. Today, rocco is as happy as ever, and this is the proof that love has the power to change both humans and animals, and to inspire them to carry on, waiting for hard times to pass. Check out Rocco’s Instagram account to keep up with his life.

(h/t: thedodo)

Rocco is a 3-year-old German Shepherd who was abandoned by his previous owners just because they were having a baby.

When Rocco arrived to Dallas Animal Services in Texas, he looked scared and underweight. A woman took a video of him while in the shelter and posted it online.

Preethi Pillaipakkam, a foster through DFW German Shepherd Rescue saw the video, and immediately offered help.

The reason why Rocco’s owners abandoned him really hit Pillapakkam in her heart.

Rocco in the beginning was really scared to get into the the car and to go home with his new foster mom.

At first, Rocco remained timid around his foster family, but a few days of trying to win him over, and with help from Pillaipakkam’s own German shepherd dog, Rocco revealed himself as the adorable dog that he is.

“He slowly started exploring the house,” Pillaipakkam said. “He loves the couches and his doggy beds, and he really likes squeaky toys and tennis balls. He is a really good fetcher.”.

Now Rocco follows his mom around just like a shadow.

Pillaipakkam decided to create an Instagram account for Rocco to keep people updated on his life, and to inspire more people to adopt large-breed dogs.

Now, Rocco already found a new family and he is as happy as can be. Love surely changed him and inspired him to hope again.