Nervous 2-Legged Dachshund Makes His Runway Debut And We're His Biggest Fans
It's hard to imagine anything cuter than a doggy fashion show — unless it's a shy senior dog in a wheelchair appearing in his very first doggy fashion show. That was the situation in October 2025, when a 10-year-old dachshund named Gibbs strutted his stuff in the Dogs n Denim show at the University of Arizona. Gibbs had to overcome a bit of stage fright first, but eventually he made his triumphant runway debut. A TikTok video of the event shows how charmed the audience was to see the wiener dog on the makeshift catwalk sporting an adorable little heart-adorned denim outfit.
@oldsoulsanimalres Two of our rescue dogs made their runway debuts at the @University of Arizona Dogs n Denim fashion show last week! Our dog models were: – Gibbs, our senior weiner on wheels, who courageously overcame stage fright 💪 – Vinny, our distemper survivor pup, who strutted around like he was born for this dog fashion show 🌟 After walking the runway, these rescue dogs were treated to some @BARK 'N BERRY PB ice cream & even scored awards for their hard work 🥹 For those of you that have been following his journey, Gibbs has spent the last month with his foster family, and we're THRILLED to report he is thriving and has them completely wrapped around his paw (not that anyone's surprised)! Want to get involved with Old Souls Animal Rescue? Check out all of the ways you can help through the link in our bio! #rescuedogs #rescuedog #dogmodels #dogfashionshow #dogs
Immediately after Gibbs came Vinny, a 1-year-old dog who managed to survive distemper. Cornell's College of Veterinary Medicine states that up to 80% of puppies who get the disease ultimately die from it, but Vinny survived with just a bit of neurological damage. "Gibbs and Vinny are two very handsome runway models, how adorable!! So heartwarming ❤️🐶," commented one viewer of the video. "They looked so fashionable and adorable! ❤," wrote another.
Adopting a dog with special needs
Gibbs and Vinny are just two of many animals at Old Souls Animal Rescue and Retirement Home in Tucson, Arizona, ready to be fostered or adopted. This nonprofit cares for elderly, special needs, and hospice animals. The organization also takes in the animals of elderly people who can no longer care for their pets. Gibbs arrived at Old Souls in 2021, not long after becoming paralyzed. The Old Souls adoption page describes him as a playful and affectionate doggo who likes to play fetch and chase lizards, never letting his wheelchair slow him down. Vinny is described as a loving pup who enjoys running around and receiving belly rubs.
If you're ready to adopt a dog, consider choosing one with special needs, like Gibbs and Vinny. These animals have a ton of love to give, but they often have a hard time finding forever homes, and they'll teach you a lot about the wealth of empathy and patience you possess. However, it's best to be prepared for the unique needs these dogs may have, such as extra medications, vet visits, or equipment costs.
Looking for more heartwarming stories about sweet dogs getting adopted? Check out this rescue dog who found a family after being returned to the shelter, and this senior golden retriever who found his forever home with a man who came to the shelter to adopt a different dog.