After 1,176 Days, Shelter’s Oldest Dog Finally Finds a Family

From the Streets to Three Years Behind Bars

Venom’s story began in May 2022, when he was rescued from the streets of Telde, Gran Canaria. Malnourished and sick, the young dog—estimated at under two years old—was taken to the island’s animal shelter. Because of his size and breed mix, partly resembling a Stanford-type terrier, he was categorized as a “difficult dog,” a label that often condemns animals to years of rejection.

Venom would wait a staggering 1,176 days—becoming the shelter’s longest resident—before someone finally saw past the stigma.

Cristina’s Visit That Changed Everything

That someone was Cristina Beeson, a local teacher from Telde, who had already shared her home with several rescue dogs. After losing three of her elderly pets, only a French Bulldog named Pied remained. Though Pied was reactive and not always friendly to other animals, Cristina couldn’t get Venom out of her mind.

“When I learned how long he had been there, I felt such sadness,” she explained. “I told the shelter, ‘I don’t want him to end his days there.’”

Despite initial doubts about compatibility, Cristina brought Pied to meet Venom. The first encounter was full of barking, but with time and patience, the two dogs adapted—and now live together like brothers.

Breaking Down Prejudices Against “Difficult Dogs”

Cristina was shocked to learn hers was the only adoption inquiry Venom had ever received. “He’s wonderful with dogs, cats, and people,” she said. “It’s heartbreaking that prejudices about his appearance kept him waiting so long.”

Veterinarian Mario García of the Gran Canaria shelter agrees. “There’s a huge demand for small dogs, but large breeds, especially those labeled ‘dangerous,’ face the hardest road to adoption,” he explained. In reality, behavior depends far more on upbringing than genetics. “There are far more bites from Chihuahuas and Yorkshires than from big dogs,” García noted.

Unfortunately, administrative hurdles—special licenses, medical certificates, and liability insurance—also discourage many potential adopters from considering these dogs.

Every Dog Deserves a Chance

Shelter staff emphasize that all dogs are individuals, each with a unique personality. Some large dogs arrive traumatized, while others like Venom are naturally gentle and social. With proper care, training, and love, most adapt beautifully to family life.

Cristina, who now calls Venom her “angel,” hopes his story will inspire others. “He’s brought so much joy to our home. I encourage people to adopt dogs considered ‘difficult.’ Many are just waiting to show how good they really are.”