The first three pictures were taken August 1, 2002

August 12, 2002 The email for help from Louisiana...

"Titus was picked up by a ACO (Animal Control Officer) in bad shape. It was
apparent that he was probably used for fighting. His face was nothing but cuts and gashes, he had maggots in most of the cuts. It looked as if he would lose one of his eyes, his throat was slashed also. His white count was over 100,000. The first night we were worried about his kidneys shutting down and the Doc gave him a 10% chance to live. That was 1 week ago and he has had several surgeries. He is gaining weight and eating on his own and even plays! He will lose most of his face before it is all over with. He is very special and has a great disposition. He must want to live because he is getting stronger everyday. We are taking donations to help pay for his medical expenses.  He will need a home soon, and it has to be one with a very loving and caring person."

"as you can see from the pictures the life was just about gone and now he looks so different."  

Tonja

August 13, 2002 more details...

Titus is now in the care of Dr. Sandra Robbins at Folsom Animal Hospital.  He has been there since he was picked up.  We are still trying to find a foster home but we don't expect him to leave the hospital for awhile yet.  We do have a few prospects in line though.  He does not have any time span put on him, he will be taken care of until he finds a home.  He was not neutered when he was picked up but he will be done when he is strong enough.  He still has a lot of surgeries to go.  I will send you pictures of him when he first came in, the smell was the worst of  all.  I understand special dogs are harder to place, but I  feel as if there is a special person waiting for him. Thank you so much for taking an interest in him and I will send you more information  as I get it. Thanks
again. 

Tonja

August 20, 2002

Hi Amy,
Sorry I haven't wrote in a couple of days, but we have been busy at work and
at home also. We will be visiting him later this week and we get update pictures for you.  He has had another surgery to remove more of his lips. He looks as if he has got a real big smile.  He is still in good spirits and is gaining weight.  When I get his new pictures I will send them to you.
Thanks, Tonja

Hi Amy,
Well here are the newest pictures of Titus.  He is doing so well, and is so full of life!  It doesn't look like he will have to have anymore surgeries. The tissue on his face is pretty healthy.  The last surgery will be for him to be neutered.  That won't be very hard for him at all.  It has now come to the time to seriously look for a new home.  Titus's personality is such that he is not recommended to be with other dogs or small children who will not realize what he has endured.  He is very outgoing  and friendly with people-strangers or not.  However, he is possessive over HIS food, water, toys, ect. and will snap if you try to take them from him.  It is almost as if he has never had anything of his own before and is scared to give it up.  I think he could use a little obedience training and maybe some security he would do better in that area.  He loves to give kisses as he licks your whole face. He loves to cuddle in your lap and just be loved on.  He will follow you everywhere you go, and wants to be your best friend.  Please spread the word that he is in need of a home that will give him the attention that he needs and wants so badly.  Titus is such a special dog that has a zest for life and a huge will to live.  He has fought so hard to get where he is at  now and we are happy to help him along his journey.  But his journey is not over yet he still needs a home to show him love and security so our work is not finished yet not until Titus is safe and sound for good.  It will take a special person to take on Titus and if you or someone you know is willing to do that please e-mail me and will make the arrangements to get him "home".  I want to thank everyone at PBRC for  everything they have done, it means more than they will ever know.  Thanks again,
                  Tonja

September 13, 2002

----- I know , I know , I haven't gave an update, there has been a lot going
on.  We have talked to a couple of people to give him a temperament test, and
that is in the works now.  He does show dog aggression, no doubt.  He loves
to get all the attention he can get.  He is getting to the point now that he needs to get out of the hospital.  He is getting is getting cooped up.  His face is healing good. He is steadily gaining weight.  We have been looking hard for a foster home for him and have not found one yet.  I am going to submit him for adoption.  I will let you know how the temperament test goes. We are also looking into some obedience classes for him also. His looks are sometimes a little alarming to some.  My kids have seen lots of pictures and never actually seen him until the other day.  It took them back a little.  He just wanted to see what they had in their hands and wanted to lick and play.  But I still would be hesitant about him going to a home with small children.  They don't  understand the dangers.   I think he needs a "job" of some sort to focus his energy on.  He does have a lot of that.  I will continue to keep all posted and am so sorry that I have took so long. If you are interested in fostering or adopting please let me know  Tonja

As Titus' physical recovery progressed, it became painfully apparent that his emotional wounds were much deeper.  Despite the efforts of rescuers, vets, and behaviorists, he was unable to recover mentally from the trauma and abuse he had suffered.  With care and compassion, Titus was freed from his mental anguish in the loving arms of his rescuers.  On a crisp October morning, Titus was sent to the Rainbow Bridge.  He will remain in our thoughts and hearts.