NYC Shelter Dog Found 'With Scars All Over His Body' Gets the Sweetest Surprise
Every dog deserves to spend their days being pampered like royalty, but some unlucky pups are waiting patiently in animal shelters instead. Rescue dogs are some of the most loving and loyal animals a person could ever meet, which is why rescue advocates like the dog dad behind @madmax_fluffyroad are determined to make their shelter stays as special as possible. With a little special treatment and extra attention, these dogs might even get adopted, too.
Bryan Reisberg is best known as his Corgi, Maxine's, social media manager and biggest fan, but he's also been using his platform to help shelter dogs like Pothos have their best days ever. On May 11, he let the NYC shelter dog, who was found 'with scars all over his body,' tag along on a few very special errands, and Pothos stole everyone's hearts in the process.
@madmax_fluffyroad Every dog deserves a family MEET POTHOS 4 years old LIKES Aggressive kisses Getting his picture taken Being carried Food More food More kisses Words of encouragement DISLIKES Church bells? It's a huge honor that we won 2 @The Webby Awards for our adoption rides and I'm so happy that we were able to include Pothos in our official portrait! Dog Backpack by @Little Chonk See all the dogs available for adoption via @Best Friends, their location in Soho, or at the link in our bio #adoptdontshop#dogbackpack
original sound - madmax_fluffyroad
Could this sweet boy be any more affectionate? Pothos knocked Bryan over with hugs despite knowing him for all of five seconds, and he was more than happy to share the love with everyone he met. Some dogs are overwhelmed by New York's sounds and crowds, but he seems like the perfect dog for busy city life!
"Oh boy," @liannananners commented. "I hope whoever adopts him is ready to be excessively loved!" Pothos might just be the most affectionate NYC shelter dog that Bryan, AKA @madmax_fluffyroad, has ever met, and he was the perfect role model to share the glory of Bryan's Webby Award win.
Related: Dog Rescuer Fosters a Shelter Dog With 'Zero Interest' and Completely Transforms His Life
"Please tell me he's adopted," agreed @mysparklyself. "He's so precious despite whatever happened in his past." Even though this adorable dog was found riddled with scars and scratches, he lives for the moment as if he's never been hurt. Somehow, though, he hasn't been adopted as of May 12.
NYC Shelter Dogs
4-Year-old, mixed-breed dog Pothos is ready to find his forever home with the help of Best Friends Animal Society in NYC. He's an easygoing, short-legged boy who loves nothing more than affection and snacks, though when he meets his forever family, they'll certainly be at the top of the list.
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Best Friends is one of many wonderful animal shelters and rescues operating in New York City, so there are plenty of options for New Yorkers in search of a furry companion. Whether you're looking for a stylish Chihuahua, an energetic Shepherd, or a relaxed mixed-breed like Pothos, anyone can find the perfect dog in the city.
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This story was originally published May 13, 2026 at 5:45 AM.