Contessa Giordano

by Neal Giordano
(Apex, North Carolina)

Contessa, or "Tess", as we've come to call her, is an amazing story. She was surrendered to the nearest shelter by her "owner" after giving birth to a litter of puppies. She was suffering from post-partum depression, an upper respiratory infection, and tested positive for heartworms. When it was all said and done, she was only two days away from euthanization when she was rescued.

I had just lost my Rottie/Shepherd mix of 16 years, and was hesitant to adopt her. But, something told me to do it. Tess had some early ups and downs with us, and was prone to random fits and biting, but a firm hand, even tone of voice and a LOT of love and bonding has brought her around to her true Rottie form. I have 200% confidence in going nose-to nose with her, now. She's an absolute love hound, and can't give enough. She's been such an amazing friend, and has been great therapy for the grief I've experienced with losing my other dog.

Tess is right around two years old, and living a fantastic life. If you don't mind taking a dog that might be a year (or more) old, I highly recommend taking a look at a Rottie rescue. Yes, they might've had a tough life...but, Tess is a perfect example of coming from a bad background with an attitude and turning into a fantastic friend. Patience can bring them around! She's my baby!

Now, if I could just convince her that 85 pound Rotties make TERRIBLE lap dogs...nah. I love it! ;)


Neal - I don't think anyone's ever managed to prove to any Rottweiler's satisfaction that they're too big to be lapdogs!! Great story and a beautiful girl, thanks for sharing. For anyone interested in giving one of these awesome dogs a second chance at a happy life, please check out these pages..

Rottweiler Rescue

Rottweiler Rescue Groups

Available Rottweiler Rescues