Turnip’s Turnaround: A Quiet Dog with a Lot to Give

May 20, 2025

Once a silent, injured stray in constant pain, Turnip has transformed into a loving companion thanks to lifesaving care from PAWS Chicago. Thanks to a loving foster home and expert veterinary care, Turnip is healed and thriving with his new family.

When Turnip arrived at Chicago Animal Care and Control, he was in serious pain. He had a ruptured eye, a fractured tooth, a luxating patella, and a high grade heart murmur. He didn’t wag his tail or seek affection—he simply endured. 

Thanks to PAWS Chicago’s expert medical team, Turnip received the care he needed, including enucleation surgery for his injured eye. After that, everything changed, and the once-shutdown pup suddenly sought a warm lap to cuddle in. It was clear Turnip had taken a turn for the better. We knew a foster home would be the perfect environment to help him continue to grow.  

“Turnip was an agreeable fellow from the start,” says his foster, Amanda Geppert.  

With pain-free days and a consistent routine, Turnip began to thrive. “Turnip is a delight! He likes to communicate and will bring you his leash when he would like to take a walk. He will bark when he decides it’s bedtime.” He loves his long walks—ideally 7,500 steps—and settles into a cozy nap while Amanda works from home. 

Despite his medical history, Turnip’s needs are simple. He manages his heart condition with medication that he takes easily with cream cheese, cheddar, or boiled chicken. A man of culinary excellence, Turnip has also proved to be a fan of treats from our partner Stella & Chewy’s, who help provide highly nutritious snacks for our pets in recovery. 

“Turnip loves to be wherever you are and, if possible, cuddled up right next to you,” Amanda says. He’s sociable but calm, enjoying visits to the local bookshop or bakery and watching the world from the front stoop. 

Thanks to Amanda’s support, Turnip quickly became adoption-ready. After just a few short days at our Lincoln Park Adoption Center, Turnip charmed his new family into taking him home!  

The once shut-down and lost Turnip is now ready for his new life of being pampered like a king. We wish you a lifetime of cuddles, lots of Stella & Chewy’s treats, and a whole lot of love, Turnip!