The day Gus found me wasn't supposed to happen.

I was sitting in the car, eating in the parking lot of a McDonald's, while it was pouring rain outside.

A blonde dog was walking between the cars, asking for food.

When he reached my car, I opened the door and put a hamburger on the ground for him, while covering it with an umbrella.

He completely ignored the burger and instead, jumped right inside the car. I don't know exactly what made him choose me, but I couldn't bring myself to put him back out on the street.

So I brought him home...

...gave him several baths...

...and named him Gus.

The next day, I took him to the veterinarian. Thankfully, Gus tested negative for heart worm and parasites and was otherwise perfectly healthy. He did have fleas and needed veterinary care, vaccines, medication, food, and basic supplies.

His first veterinary visit alone came to $595.33

The truth is, it became very difficult to look at this incredibly gentle dog and not help him simply because helping him was going to be difficult.

Gus is still adjusting to life indoors. He's clearly used to being outside and there are times when he struggles to settle down after just going on a walk.

In the meantime, he needs food, parasite prevention, vaccines, veterinary care, and the basic things every dog deserves.

That's why I'm asking for your help.

Every donation will go towards Gus's care. I'm happy to share updates and information about his veterinary care so that people who support him can see where their donations are going.

I never went looking for Gus. He found me. All I can do is give him the second chance he was asking for when he climbed into my life.

Sometimes a dog just needs someone to open the door.

Thank you for reading Gus's story, sharing it, donating if you're able, or simply following along.