THE FRIEND WHO NEVER STOPPED CHOOSING JOY

"If you spent a millionth of the time I have with him, he would become your best friend instantly."

— Thomas Zang

Before Chance became Thomas's best friend, he was a puppy whose life nearly ended before it had truly begun.

He was found by Animal Care & Protective Services tied to a fence with a chain wrapped around his rear right leg. The injury became severely infected, and veterinarians had no choice but to amputate the leg to save his life. After surgery, Chance was transferred to Jacksonville Humane Society, where he was adopted by a family friend.

Their paths crossed in 2016 during Hurricane Matthew.

As Thomas and his mother evacuated to stay with that family friend, Chance quickly made himself part of their lives. During the four days they spent together, Thomas and Chance were rarely apart. Their bond was immediate, and by the time the storm had passed, it was clear they belonged together. Seeing that connection, their friend made the generous decision to let Chance go home with Thomas.

That decision began what Thomas calls the greatest friendship he has ever known.

Despite everything Chance experienced as a puppy, Thomas says he has never let his past define him. His resilience and gentle nature are the qualities that stand out most. Whether greeting children or adults, Chance treats everyone with the same affectionate spirit, always hoping for another pat on the head or scratch behind the ears.

Missing a leg has never kept him from enjoying life. Thomas describes him as an attention-loving, chill, clumsy dog who brings smiles wherever he goes. And whenever someone is feeling sick or having a difficult day, Chance is always close by, offering quiet companionship.

One of Thomas's favorite memories came years later at Parker Flower Farms. Friends had invited Chance and Thomas to accompany them while their dog, Michi, was being photographed. Although Chance wasn't originally scheduled for a portrait session, there was time to photograph him as well.

After a few tries, Chance settled into the experience, and together they spent the morning walking through the flower fields beneath a beautiful sunrise. For Thomas, seeing his senior dog sharing that morning with his best friend remains one of his most treasured memories.

"That memory is so vivid in my head, it feels like a painting every time I think about it."

Chance's story began with hardship, but it has been defined by something much stronger: resilience, grace, and a remarkable capacity to love. For everyone fortunate enough to know him, he is living proof that a difficult beginning does not determine the rest of the story.