Have you seen Toby on TV? He was the poodle-mix rescued from suspected cruelty that was featured in an ASPCA commercial. We are often asked about the outcome of these animals and where they are now. Well, we’re happy to report that Toby is now in a safe and loving home with a doting adopter! But how did Toby go from suspected neglect to adored? We’ll explain!

Toby was rescued in January 2023 alongside more than 40 other dogs from suspected cruelty, primarily poodle mixes, from a property in Western North Carolina. Once removed from the property, Toby was brought to the ASPCA Cruelty Recovery Center (CRC) in Columbus, Ohio.

Our behaviorists worked with Toby and the other dogs from his case to get them to a place where they were behaviorally ready for adoption. When that time came, Toby, alongside four other dogs from his case, were transferred to our incredible placement partners at Brandywine Valley SPCA (BVSPCA) in the hopes of finding him the home he deserved.

When Toby arrived at BVSPCA, he showed them that he was super smart and attentive at the shelter.

“He already knew basic commands and listened to any handler,” said Sara Smith, senior director of marketing and communications at Brandywine Valley SPCA. “He loved to lean in for affection and walked well on a leash. He was also open to meeting calmer dogs and loved to talk your ear off.”

In the care of BVSPCA, Toby attended their Mega Adoption Event in July 2023, their largest event ever resulting in homes for more than 1,400 animals in just two days. Toby was one of those lucky 1,400 animals who found their match at the event and went to his new home the very same day.

“Brandywine Valley SPCA’s partnership with the ASPCA is so important and has a real impact on saving lives. We have been grateful to answer the call when cases like Toby’s come along,” said Sara. “Welcoming dogs like Toby and the four others from this case allows the ASPCA the space to help even more animals in need, and we are grateful that the ASPCA knows they can always reach out in times like this.”

We are so grateful to our friends at BVSPCA for helping us and the animals in our care in times of need! And we are so glad they were able to help find Toby the home he always deserved!