Amore’s Adventures: From Rescue Pup to Mendota Pet’s Traveling Ambassador
Meet Amore, our beloved pet employee of six years and representative of the Mendota Pet brand lifestyle! He is, without a doubt, a travel-savvy mutt with a unique story of triumph—overcoming the odds of illness to become a true American adventuring dog. Enjoy Amore’s origin story and come along for the ride across the USA—this is just the beginning of his adventures, with more tales to come in this ongoing series, exploring his travels, favorite spots, and unforgettable moments.
From Puerto Peñasco to Pet Expo
Amore’s journey began in Puerto Peñasco, Sonora, Mexico, as a rescue intake puppy at Barb’s Dog Rescue, a lifesaving haven for thousands of street dogs since 2001. Founded by the compassionate and dedicated Barb Mumaugh, the shelter has rescued and rehomed over 500 dogs in 2024 alone, providing food, shelter, and medical care for up to 400 dogs at any given time. Though Barb passed away in 2023, her legacy continues through the organization’s unwavering commitment to saving dogs. Amore, Mendota Pet’s ambassador, is one of their many success stories—rescued, rehabilitated, and now thriving as a symbol of adventure, premium pet gear, and second chances.
Amore’s Signature Look: The Story Behind His Lazy Ear
Amore was adopted in 2019, already battling tick fever. Though he was prescribed a course of antibiotics, it was ultimately love and the bond of family that saved him. One of his most recognizable features is his lazy left ear, often characteristic of mixed breeds. Whether due to fever paralysis or genetics, his floppy ear only adds to his charm. Another unique feature is his pink-smudged nose, making him even more distinctive.
His DNA results revealed that he is 49% Small Poodle, 23% Chihuahua, 22% Rat Terrier, and 6% Pekinese! His street smarts and strong eye contact come from his Poodle side, his drive to explore from his Rat Terrier lineage, and his stoic stance is unmistakably Chihuahua. Adding to his goofy and lovable personality, Amore also has a slight underbite, a quirky trait that never fails to bring smiles.
Life’s Little Joys: Amore’s Favorite Activities
Beyond his role as Mendota Pet’s ambassador, Amore enjoys life’s simple pleasures. His favorite pastimes include indulging in ice cream, hiking through scenic trails, camping under the stars, and basking in the sun by the pool. His adventurous spirit and resilient heart make him the perfect representative of Mendota Pet’s lifestyle—one of exploration, quality pet care, and the unbreakable bond between dogs and their families.
A Mutt’s Mission to Represent the Best
They say mutts are imperfectly perfect and that is quite true for Amore. He is treat-oriented and responds with enthusiasm to the world around him.
More than just an embodiment of Gear, Skincare, & Health, Amore is always in attendance at important trade shows like Global Pet Expo in Orlando, Florida, and SuperZoo in Las Vegas. These annual international trade shows create the important connections and broker deals which drive the worldwide pet products industry. Come see Amore at Global Pet Expo March 26-28, 2025, at booth 2578 and learn about this 12-pound mutt’s favorite Mendota Pet products!
Join Amore on his travels and adventures, and follow along as he continues to live his best life, one paw step at a time! 🐾
