We said we weren’t keeping Meatball. We were “only fostering.”

But after a month of watching him trust, heal, and fully be himself, we knew.

He wasn’t just passing through. He was home.

We made it official and adopted him. From that day forward, our lives changed for the better.

From adopted siblings to foster pups and even his cat crew, Meatball immediately stepped into the role of big brother with patience and heart.

He welcomes every new face with curiosity, shares his space and treats, and makes everyone feel safe and loved.

It didn't take long for Meatball to become the protector of our home and his pack. He patrols the house and yard. Supervises his furry friends. Trails his humans from room to room.

But the real strength shows in the quiet moments. He adjusts his energy for senior dogs, choosing patience over play. And when Mom needs rest or healing, he’s right there, gentle and devoted, her 24/7 shadow.

Meatball wasn’t always food motivated. In fact, his tummy struggled more than we realized.

After discovering several food allergies and getting him on the right diet, everything changed, including his digestion.

It started with a small piece of banana. Then blueberries. Then strawberries.

Turns out, this boy LOVES fruit. And thankfully, fruit loves him back.

He now is super food motivated, has several snacks and treats that he can enjoy, and became our official treat taste tester.

Meatball became more than our dog. He became our family, our entire world. He became the reason we advocate even harder for rescue dogs, especially the underdogs.

Judged for his breed, size, and blocky head, he proves every day that stereotypes don’t stand a chance against a good heart.

He’s not just the face of Cogs Dogs. He’s a reminder of why we do this.

Rescue dog. Big brother. Protector. Mission motivator.

Meatball has earned every title along the way. But none fit quite like Chief Snack Officer. He now oversees all things snack-related with the seriousness (and slobber) they deserve.

As the face of Cogs Dogs and a constant reminder of why we do this, he sets the standard for quality, compassion, and snack approval.