When a small, matted pup was found abandoned outside on the streets of Austin, Executive Director Priscilla Duran from The Philomena Assisted Living and Memory Care brought him home. But no one in the Kyle, Texas retirement community expected him to become a national sweetheart. No longer a lonely stray, the 7-year-old Shih Tzu lovingly named Chewy, has been promoted to “Executive Dog”, and remains one of the best pets for residents in senior living today.
Chewy, the beloved “Executive Dog” at The Philomena, proves he’s the best dog for seniors with a heartwarming story that captured national attention.
A Fresh Start for a Forgotten Pup
With the best intentions of returning him home, Priscilla made an effort to find Chewy’s original owners. A veterinarian even confirmed he had a microchip — but the heartfelt reunion was far from picture perfect.
“The original owners were called, and they were very annoyed,” she told a writer for PEOPLE. “They said they didn’t want him back and hung up.”
Soon his presence among the 75+ residents who live at the retirement community became an expectation. One day, unanimously, they agreed to adopt him.
“I’ve met a lot of people through him. We’re all getting older here, and there’s not a whole lot of things for older people to do, and here comes this little thing romping around, wanting you to play with him,” resident Linda B., 83, shared with The Washington Post.
“He plays catch, he walks up to us and smiles at us and wants us to scratch underneath his chin and he wants to get in your lap,” she continued. “He is a blessing.”
Going Viral: Chewy Steals America’s Heart
Chewy’s rags-to-riches transformation touched more than just the residents of The Philomena. His story went viral, landing features in some of the biggest media outlets in the country.
- The Washington Post shared how residents took him in, naming him the “Executive Dog” and highlighting how deeply he enriched the lives of those around him.
- CNN’s “Five Good Things” podcast details how the humble pup became the star of a senior living community in Texas.
- PEOPLE Magazine featured him in a heartwarming piece titled “Rejected Rescue Dog Chewy Ends Up at Assisted Living Facility”, calling his journey “a story that restores faith in humanity.”
- Finally, Chewy appeared on The Kelly Clarkson Show, where he brought smiles, tail wags, and happy tears to a national audience.
No one could have imagined that this little Shih Tzu would go from matted fur to major media!
A Luau to Remember
To celebrate Chewy’s moment in the spotlight, The Philomena hosted a Luau-themed watch party for residents and staff. With Hawaiian shirts, leis, and cocktails in hand, residents gathered around the TV, smiling as their favorite four-legged companion, Priscilla, and fellow resident Charlene S. shared his story across the country.
The senior living community even indulged in a mixed drink called “The Chewy,” which consists of coconut rum, banana liqueur, pineapple juice, mango nectar, lime juice, and a splash of grenadine — shaken and served in a hurricane.
The Best Dog for Senior Living Communities
Chewy’s story highlights why small dogs in senior living can be life-changing. He has all the qualities of the best dog for senior living — calm, affectionate, low-maintenance, and incredibly in tune with residents’ emotional needs.
Whether he’s offering a gentle paw during a tough day or joining in on morning walks, Chewy brings comfort and connection to all. His presence encourages movement, conversation, and companionship, making him a daily dose of joy at The Philomena.
Find Your Forever Community — Just Like Chewy Did
Chewy’s journey from abandoned to adored is more than a feel-good story. It’s a reminder that no matter your age or background, a new beginning is always possible. At The Philomena, Chewy found love, purpose, and a community — and you can, too. Schedule a tour with Chewy today and discover the warmth and joy of life at The Philomena.
