06/07/2025
The Legend of Stinky Steve
🐾💛
Every now and then, a dog comes into our lives who reminds us why we do what we do. For us, that dog was Stinky Steve—our boney little old man with a big attitude and an even bigger heart.
Steve came to us through The Artemis Project, who rescued him and brought him in for a dental to help his chances at finding a forever home. But after one listen to his heart, our doctor knew anesthesia wasn’t an option. His heart murmur was severe—there was no way we could safely do the procedure.
But something unexpected happened.
In just 24 hours, our team fell head over heels for the cranky little gremlin. He may have been fragile, old, and stinky (hence the name), but he was home. Just like that, Stinky Steve became our clinic’s unofficial mascot and full-time heart thief.
He spent his days being spoiled by all the girls at the clinic. They took turns bringing him home and giving him the kind of love every dog deserves. He loved car rides—especially coffee runs—and would bark at the drive-thru workers until they delivered the goods (aka pup cups). He’d sprawl out in the sun on dashboards and back windows like he owned the world, and honestly, he did.
Steve had a mischievous streak too. He could slip out of the smallest cracked door like a seasoned escape artist and sneak into the lobby for a few head & ear scratches from our clients. He strutted around in little hats, bowties, and even tiny glasses—whether he liked it or not (we think he secretly loved the attention, grumpy face and all).
And yes, he earned the name Stinky Steve honestly. He left a few… deposits in the break room and by the back door every now and then. We called it the Steve Toll. We paid it gladly.
Over time, Steve’s heart grew weaker. He began having syncopal episodes—passing out when he got too excited. Despite our love and all the cuddles, car rides, and sunny naps, we knew his little body was getting tired.
Last night, surrounded by all the people who adored him, we said our final goodbyes. We waited until the clinic closed, gave him one last perfect day—treats, snuggles, pup cups, soft blankets, and nonstop love—and then we let him rest.
Stinky Steve wasn’t just a rescue. He was family. He made us laugh, reminded us to slow down, and showed us that even the smallest, oldest dogs still have so much love to give.
We’ll miss you, Steve. Thanks for choosing us. 💛🐾
