Meet Franz. Franz is a 4–5 year old, 22-pound dachshund mix with a resilient heart and a joyful spirit. He came from the heartbreaking hoarding case involving 36 dogs living in terrible conditions, but somehow, Franz seems to have chosen happiness anyway. Black and white and full of personality, Franz is one of the more outgoing dogs from the group. He has a small bend in his legs that was determined to be a birth defect, but it does not slow him down at all. He runs, plays, explores, and enjoys life just like any other happy little dog. That is what makes Franz so special — for all he has been through, he seems to have let the past go. He is not shut down or bitter. He is simply excited to finally be a dog. Franz loves to play in the yard with everyone, from big 66-pound dogs to tiny 16-week-old puppies. He has a little more energy than some of the others from the case, but if you know dachshunds, it makes perfect sense. After he has had his fun, Franz is more than happy to cuddle up in blankets on the couch — or, even better, in your lap. He is clean and easy in a crate, both at night and during the day when needed. He does well eating in a group on Purina dog food, loves a good chew bone, and has shown no aggression toward anyone. Franz loves kids and teens, and unlike some of the others, he does not seem to mind men at all. He has had a brief introduction to cats, and his response was not aggression — quite the opposite. He got very low to the ground like he was trying to disappear into the floor. It was clear he was unsure, but he was gentle. Franz is also learning about leash walking. He does not pull, but he army crawls a little, like he is still figuring out what a leash is all about. It really seems like this may be his first experience with it. The good news is that he is learning fast, especially now that he realizes leash walks mean extra sniffing in new places — and that is one of his favorite things. He also does well with a low fence. Franz is neutered, up to date on all vaccinations and preventions, and ready for a fresh start. More than anything, Franz is one of the most forgiving dogs you could ever meet. After living through such a hard past, he still greets the world with hope, playfulness, and trust. Like the rest of the dogs from this case, all Franz really wants now is comfort, love, and a family to call his own, fill out an adoption application. His $325 adoption fee covers medical care up to adoption to include vaccines, neuter, microchip, foster care and transportation from Louisiana to NY.