This morning, Hippo knew something was up at the Bulldog Bungalow. He followed my every move as I packed his things, determined not to let me out of his sight.
Once the car was loaded, we hit the road. True to his nature, Hippo rode like a perfect gentleman—calm, collected and quietly taking it all in.
When we arrived at the meeting spot, Hippo hopped out with curiosity. But the second he saw his new family, he ran to them, his little body wiggling with joy, his excitement so electric it felt like it could light up the world.
In that moment, I got to witness something truly special—a family becoming whole.
That’s the best part of being a foster mom: the magic of seeing that missing piece click into place.
From this day forward, Hippo will be known as Frank the Tank!
He’s already settling in with a brand-new bed, a basket of toys all his own, and a family that adores him. Now they just have to figure out who gets to cuddle with him first—and whose bed he’ll choose to sleep in!
It won’t be long before Frank has them all wrapped around his paw, ruling the house with his irresistible charm.
Frank the Tank, you’re finally home, buddy. Happy tails, sweet boy!
Hippo was found as a stray wandering the streets in sad shape. It is a story repeated too many times!
11/23/24 Update: I’m excited to meet my new foster family soon, but in the meantime, I’m off to enjoy a little Thanksgiving vacation with volunteer Sophia.
I have to admit, leaving Petz Mania made me feel a bit sad. I’ve been so comfortable there, and they really take great care of me.
The kennel tech told my vacation hostess that I’m a calm, mellow guy who prefers other dogs that are a bit more laid-back, just like me.
Oh, and just so you know—pictures don’t quite capture my full handsomeness! I’ve got these big, adorable paws that perfectly match my lean, strong physique. I’m pretty sure they call me “Hippo” because of these paws!
Stay tuned for more updates from me.
11/25/24 Update: I feel like I need to make up for lost time on social media because I should be famous by now.
I have already made a very good impression on my Thanksgiving hosts. I slept through the night in my XXL crate and even let them sleep in! I am already potty trained, so it was no big deal to wait.
I am being respectful of the resident Bulldog and his space. I think he almost likes my company because I am naturally laidback and prefer to do my own thing too.
Today, when I heard the sounds of the plastic bag, I knew there was something in there for me, so I automatically sat down and waited patiently! I got a brand new and tasty bone.
Oh, did I mention that I am tall, strong and handsome with the most adorable big paws ever? I really enjoy all the massages and exploring what it’s like to be in a home.
Maybe your home will be perfect for me?
11/27/24 Update: I had a peaceful night’s sleep and was polite enough to let my hosts sleep in a bit longer again today.
It’s been quite the weekend so far! I took a stroll around the
neighborhood to explore, and it turns out I’m a little quicker and stronger on the leash than they expected. But no worries – I’m eager to please, and treats in your pocket will keep me right by your side, instead of getting distracted by everything in front of us!
I also love toys. My wonderful hosts gifted me a whole box, and I had so much fun digging through it, pulling out toy after toy! Needless to say, I’m pretty wiped out now.
I’m also learning to enjoy the little things – like having my very own bed. The resident Bulldog has been kind enough to share his, but my Thanksgiving host noticed that I might not have had one of my own for a while, so she got me a cozy one.
A bit about me: I’m around a year old, fully potty trained, and I already know how to sit! I also understand “no” or “off” when I get into things I shouldn’t.
So, does it get any better than me? I’m HIPPO, and I’d love to be a family’s Christmas hippopotamus! Have you applied to be matched to a dog yet?
11/28/24 Update: I’m a quick learner and super smart! I’m already mastering some important boundaries, like “out of the kitchen” when cooking is happening. I’ve also got “sit” and “stay” down (for a few long seconds, at least), and I’m crate trained. At first, I’d bark for a few minutes when my human was about to leave and softly whimper for 30 seconds at bedtime. But just yesterday, I started going into my crate without any fuss, politely taking treats, and understanding that it’s either bedtime or time for my human to leave.
Once I get even more comfortable and feel secure, I won’t need my crate to stay safe and out of trouble.
Yesterday, I had a great time exploring the backyard and even claimed my favorite spot to watch the sunset while getting some nice belly rubs.
Now, about the kitchen… I really don’t like being kept out when those amazing smells are wafting through, but I’m learning to be patient and obedient. I love my toys, too—I’m a bit of a showoff with them and I use them to win over human affection.
Oh, and I have to say—red plaid is definitely my color. I’m hoping to be someone’s Christmas Hippopotamus!
12/6/24 Update: Our adorable visiting fellow, Hippo, is one of the sweetest, most affectionate fur babies we’ve ever had. He’s working toward getting used to his siblings who joined the family before Hippo came for a visit. He’s super smart, a very good eater, and an excellent sleeper. We absolutely adore him.
He’s still a work in progress with his sister, but that is improving, we’re hoping. He has no issues with going outside, playing with his brother, or even helping to decorate the Christmas tree. He has realized that he lives in a two-story house and has been upstairs to explore, but no issues, other than an increasing in the entertainment factor. “Where’s Hippo?” “I don’t know, he was just here.” Chagga Chagga Chagga…..oh he was upstairs visiting.
He follows Tobey (a 2 y/o German Shepherd) around and loves to snuggle with his human Dad and Mom on the couch. If a family wants a squeezable, huggable, sweetheart, then Hippo is the one to choose. He is adorable.
12/13/24 Update: Hip, hip, hooray… Hippo’s here to brighten your day! This handsome 2-year-old foster boy is ready to find his home just in time for the holidays. He loves his walks, runs, and staying active, but he’s also a pro at striking a pose for stunning photos like this!
1/3/25 Update: This foster dog has stolen my heart (and, on one occasion, a slice of pizza ).
Hippo arrived at Bulldog Bungalow with a mysterious past. We have no idea what his life was like before our group pulled him from the shelter, but here’s what I’ve learned about him in his time here:
Hippo is the sweetest, most lovable boy. He’s the kind of dog who melts into you during a cuddle session and never wants it to end. He is not a big boy; he is a ‘lap dog,’ in his opinion.
Unlike many people’s stereotype of a Bulldog, Hippo is quite fit and active. He can walk long distances at a brisk pace without missing a beat. On our walks, he watches other dogs with curiosity, but doesn’t react. At home, he’s house-trained and has never had an accident. He sleeps peacefully all night in his crate, but would happily trade it for a spot on the bed if given the chance. Cleaning his folds, tail pocket, or touching his feet? No problem at all.
He’s also a well-mannered gentleman. Hippo doesn’t jump on people, and he sits politely for pets. He knows commands like sit, stay, no, off, and get, and he even sits patiently before his food bowl is placed down. He carries himself like a dog who just wants to make you proud. He is great with kids, and respectful of our cats.
But, like all good stories, this one has its twists.
Hippo is still figuring out how to “dog.” He matches the energy around him, so when things get lively, he can get a little excited. Early on, we let him have toys, which he loved… maybe too much. He got so amped up that it led to a disagreement with his older foster brother. When we removed them, he searched high and low, then barked at his frustration at us! For now, we’re avoiding toys, as he’s learning to “dog.” Maybe we will re-introduce them this week.
At first, he was a bit defensive with his foster brother in doorways ~ he was just unsure what ‘might’ happen. His foster brother is a grumpy older OG foster brother who prides himself on teaching foster dogs how to “dog.” In other words, no fun at all!
Still, Hippo has a way of making us laugh. Like the time we had pizza for dinner. We walked into the dining room to find him sitting in a chair, eating a slice off a plate as if he’d been invited to the party. He looked so proud of himself I almost hated to stop him! But we did NOT let him eat with us. We are working on the counter surfing. He has not done it again. He is a fast learner.
We’re also on a mission to solve his digestion issues. While he seems perfectly healthy otherwise, his tummy seems sensitive. We’re trying new food, using a slow feeder bowl, and even ordered a food sensitivity test to figure out what works best for him.
Hippo is a work in progress, but aren’t we all? With his big heart, silly quirks, and sweet nature, I have no doubt he’s going to make a lucky family feel like the luckiest people in the world.
Stay tuned for more tales from Bulldog Bungalow!
