Pedigree Foundation names senior dog Teddy 2026 rescue of year

Pedigree Foundation has named Teddy, a senior dog adopted through Muttville Senior Dog Rescue's "Seniors for Seniors" program, as the 2026 Rescue Dog of the Year. The program pairs older dogs with senior-aged adopters.

Teddy was rescued from a pet hoarding case and arrived at Muttville in San Francisco, California, U.S., with high anxiety, dental disease, a mild heart murmur and dermatitis. The organization provided medical care and foster placement, allowing Teddy to recover physically and emotionally. He later became an ambassador for Muttville, representing the organization at community events where his adoptive family first met him.

Teddy and his dad.Pedigree FoundationSenior dog adoptions decreased 2% in the first half of 2025 compared to the first half of 2024, while juvenile dog adoptions increased 6%, according to Shelter Animals Count data.

"He is a remarkable dog who makes us laugh every day," said Julie, Teddy's adopter. "He's polite, confident, eager to meet people and other dogs and seems to love everybody of all ages."

Research supported by the Waltham Petcare Science Institute found that among adults over 50, pet ownership and dog walking supported maintenance of cognitive health, with dog walkers showing slower cognitive deterioration. Muttville reports that 49% of its annual adoptions involve senior citizens.

In 2025, Muttville received a PEDIGREE Foundation grant to support specialized behavior programs for senior dogs, including enrichment programs, professional training for adopters and a Behavioral Foster Team.

Teddy and his mom on adoption day.Pedigree Foundation"According to the ASPCA, senior dogs tend to have a lower adoption rate – sometimes as low as only 25%, compared to 60% for younger dogs and puppies – but they have just as much love to give," said Deb Fair, Executive Director of PEDIGREE Foundation. "Allowing senior dogs to live out their golden years in a loving, comforting environment is such a gift that these good dogs deserve. That's why we love supporting organizations like Muttville that encourage senior dog adoption and help so many find their adoring families."

Pedigree Foundation created a limited-edition plush dog resembling Teddy, available at DogsRuleStore.com, with proceeds supporting dog rescue efforts.