Chapo had a terrible start in life. He spent years chained up with several other dogs, all living in horrific conditions with a neglectful owner. The experience left him with deep emotional scars.
He was taken in by a shelter in Houston, USA, after his owner abandoned him in the middle of a hurricane. The poor dog seemed completely empty, showing no emotion other than a profound sadness.
Lethargic and in poor health, the poor dog was deemed unadoptable and placed on the euthanasia list. But just five days before he was due to be put down, a woman appeared who would change his destiny forever.
A chance to get back on his paws
When Chapo arrived at his temporary foster home with Claudia, he was a sorry sight. Emaciated and hopeless, the dog seemed completely broken, and it was clear he desperately needed his spirits lifted.
Claudia also fostered kittens, and she soon discovered that Chapo had a soft spot for the little felines. As more kittens came into her care, Chapo began to transform before her very eyes. He became a real mother hen to all the little ones who passed through her home. The big dog finally began to relax and rediscover his love for life.
An unexpected bond
Chapo was scheduled to be transferred to another foster family in New York. But Claudia couldn't bring herself to let him go. She decided to adopt him, realising that he had brought her just as much comfort as she had given him.
Since then, Chapo has been living a happy life, and he continues to look after the kittens that Claudia fosters. By sharing his wonderful story in a video, Claudia has touched the hearts of over 10 million people online.
