Teddy ~7 Year Old Golden Lab Mix, Male, 63 pounds, Will be Neutered. Special Needs
Background: Teddy is a sweet dog who has spent the last few months proving that a spotty past doesn't limit a bright future. Surrendered to Golden Gate by a well meaning owner just before the December storms in 2025, Teddy came to us underweight and looking for a soft place to land. After some dedicated TLC and a full veterinary workup, we’ve learned Teddy has Megaesophagus, a condition where his esophagus has trouble moving food down to his stomach. Don't let the big word scare you—it just means Teddy has a special dining style.
- The Bailey Chair: Teddy just received a custom-built Bailey Chair (arrived March 3rd!). This helps him sit upright while eating so gravity can do the work. His foster is currently trying to get him accustomed to the chair. Pictured below is Teddy with the young lady who built and donated the chair to him.
- Meal Plan: He eats 4–5 small meals a day (prescription food) to keep him healthy and at a good weight.
- Medical Progress: He is currently trialing a medication called Sildenafil to help his condition. He’s doing well so far and is scheduled for his neuter in early April.
What Teddy's Current Foster Says: Ted is a smart, sweet, and sensitive guy, a lovely companion. Although he has had to deal with some challenges, he has a happy disposition that's nice to be around. He's eager to please, and likes to learn new skills (sit, stay, down, turn, come). Ted loves to cuddle; he frequently seeks me out for some snuggles. Other things Ted likes to do: bask in the sunshine; play with his toys; go for walks (of course); play fetch; roll around on his back with his legs flailing about; play with dog puzzles; meet new people; and take naps.
Ted walks well on leash and when there are other dogs around, he mostly ignores them. He likes to go for car rides, he has a solid alarm bark, and is dedicated to making the backyard a squirrel-free zone. Ted lets me know when it is time to eat, time to sleep, and time to go outside to relieve himself. He also responds well to "good boy" in addition to treats.
What Teddy's Rescue Rep Says: Teddy is a cuddler and if there's a lap on a chair or couch, he wants to be on it. He enjoys his daily walks; he is reported to bark at other dogs.
Teddy is highly food motivated. He is a known counter surfer and will happily help himself to unattended snacks or go through your garbage if given the chance. If he gets a hold of something he shouldn't have, he hasn't shown that he's ready to trade and will likely run off with his prize and growl to let you know he wants to be left alone with it. If he does get something, we recommend giving him space and letting him finish rather than trying to take it away.
Teddy needs a patient, organized foster/adopter who views his feeding routine as a special bonding time rather than a chore. A home without small children or other dogs would be the safest fit ensuring his boundaries are respected around food. Because of his history of being shuffled around and relegated to a backyard, he thrives when he is treated as a core member of the family.
We know it sounds like a lot, but once you're in the rhythm, it will a normal part of the day. And in exchange, you will get a resilient, loving companion who doesn't let his condition slow him down for a second.
Medical: Teddy will be neutered and microchipped. He is up to date with vaccines and is heartworm negative. Teddy's Megaesophagus (ME) will need to be managed with upright feeding routines (Bailey Chair) and having him sleep with a soft collar to keep his head slightly elevated. He is currently trialing a medication called Sildenafil to help his condition.
Located In: San Jose.
If you are interested in adopting SWEET TEDDY, please contact Rescue Rep Kris at krisellen.nm@gmail.com – please email information about you and your situation.
See other Labs Available