08/03/2026
Bradford Village’s Pawsome Pup of the Month spotlight is Rooster Cogburn, or Rooster for short, a Shih Tzu mix who is named after the John Wayne movie. Rooster shares his cottage with Bill and Ruth Tyo. Rooster and the Tyos have been residents since January 2021.
Rooster is the 6th puppy the Tyos have rescued. Their previous rescue pups were named Maureen O’Hara, Rockwell Torrey, Big Jake McCandles, G.W. McClintock and Duke Wayne.
Rooster was found on the streets of Wichita Falls, Texas. When rescued, Rooster didn’t want anyone to touch him and he would bite to protect himself. Throughout the years Rooster has been with Bill and Ruth, he has become a loving pup who doesn’t bite anymore and hardly barks unless he sees a stranger or a cat. Luckily Rooster had Duke Wayne to welcome him into the family and show him the ropes.
One of Rooster’s favorite activities is to go for strolls in the community and Rooster makes sure to stop and smell his favorite rocks and other spots along the way. Even though Rooster is deaf and mostly blind, he doesn’t let that slow him down and it certainly doesn’t prevent Rooster from realizing London (Lora Stewart’s dog) is nearby. When out on their separate community strolls, Rooster will turn around and start walking away just so he doesn’t have to pass by London. Rooster ignores London in every setting and even turns his back to the living room if London is visiting
Rooster loves all his toys equally and doesn’t show favoritism. Rooster’s favorite thing to do after his afternoon meal is to lay on the foot of Bill’s recliner so they can nap together.
Rooster makes sure the pantry is always stocked with his favorite chicken flavored Smart Bone treats. Rooster encourages Bill and Ruth to dine at Cattleman’s once or twice a week because he knows the waitress will send home cups of au jus for which Rooster demands two spoonfuls with his meals. Not only does Rooster love to eat the au jus but he’s especially excited to smell it too!
While the start of Rooster’s young life wasn’t ideal, he has found a loving home with Bill and Ruth that includes jumping on the bed and receiving “sugar” scratches before bedtime