From Death Row to Duck Dad: Beau, the Cane Corso Who Found Love and Purpose

A Life That Almost Ended Too Soon

On June 29, Beau, an Italian Mastiff (Cane Corso), was found wandering the streets of Los Angeles and taken to a shelter. Upon arrival, the frightened dog was labeled “aggressive” and added to the list of animals scheduled for euthanasia.

His execution date was set for July 11 at 2:00 PM. For 11 days, fear surrounded Beau so much that no one at the shelter dared to take him out of his kennel—or even clean it. He was left in isolation, living in filth, terrified and misunderstood.

That was until Sarah, a volunteer from the Southeast Area Animal Control Authority (SEAACA), shared Beau’s story on Instagram. Her post sparked an outpouring of support. One follower, Antonio (@antonio8557) from San Diego, decided he couldn’t stand by and do nothing.

Rescued at the Last Minute

With just hours to spare, and with the help of The Animal Pad (TAP)—a nonprofit dedicated to saving dogs from high-kill shelters in Southern California and Mexico—Beau was removed from the shelter and transported to San Diego.

Despite his “aggressive” label, it became clear almost instantly that Beau was not dangerous—he was terrified. He trembled uncontrollably and couldn’t walk on his own. Rescuers had to roll him out in a covered crate to prevent further stress.

Once at Antonio’s home, Beau’s demeanor transformed. The so-called dangerous dog wagged his tail submissively, ate gently from Antonio’s hand, and showed no trace of aggression.

Healing Through Love and Space

Antonio’s home—with its large yard and peaceful environment—became Beau’s sanctuary. Slowly, the massive dog began to relax, exploring his new surroundings and even bonding with Pearl, another rescued dog who had suffered from neglect and malnutrition.

“From the beginning, I knew he wasn’t just a foster,” Antonio shared. “He was so gentle, so thankful. He loved the garden, the fresh air, and simply being free. I realized he was already home.”

The Gentle Protector of Ducklings

As Beau adjusted, Antonio introduced him to the farm animals—including chickens and ducks. The family watched closely, unsure how Beau would react.

What happened next was unexpected: Beau met four tiny ducklings—two yellow, two black—and instantly froze, ears perked, tail still, eyes focused. He wasn’t hunting. He was watching over them.

“When the ducklings arrived, something clicked,” Antonio told Animals Around the Globe. “He became their guardian. He would watch them, follow their cries, and keep them safe. He’s not a predator—he’s their father figure.”

Videos of Beau gently lying next to the ducklings, carefully supervising them, quickly went viral. In one clip, Antonio affectionately asks: “Are these your babies, Beau?” The 110 kg Mastiff never takes his eyes off his tiny “children.”

From Death Row to Family

Today, Beau is no longer the “aggressive” dog no one dared to touch. He is proof of what empathy and patience can do for an animal who has been failed by humans.

Now, he is not just safe—he’s a devoted “duck dad,” loved by his new family and adored by millions online.

Sometimes, all it takes to change a life is one person who refuses to give up.