Nobody wanted a dying 16-year-old shelter dog, but then a family took a chance on him.

Bear, a 16-year-old German shepherd mix:

– was suffering from dermatitis when he was rescued from a shelter and taken in by an experienced foster parent. He gradually regained his healthy style and fame after changing his name to Norman.

“Norman is practically deaf, so he didn’t realize I changed his name,” Norman’s new mother explained.

She fosters dogs from a North Houston shelter and comments, “They [the shelter] know my weakness is that the elderly dogs.” The least I can do is provide these abandoned folks with a soft place to sleep, food, and TLC. TLC. They, in turn, offer me with a substitute appreciation and meaning in life.”

Norman Bear’s metamorphosis was documented on film from the moment he arrived at the refuge until he healed.

“Fostering for a shelter is extremely tough, but I attempt to check out the positive and know that I’m doing all I can,” she adds.

Within the case of Norman, she says, “Norman has taught me a lot…I hope everyone can experience a senior dog’s love.” She told DogHeirs, “I love my Norman/Bear.”