MIAMI — A deaf American bulldog affectionately known as “Yella” by staff at Kelsey L. Pharr Elementary School in Brownsville has found a new home — and it’s no longer outside the school’s front door.

“It’s so refreshing that there are people that are wanting to take care of animals, especially in his unique situation,” said Principal Keith Parrimore.

Yella’s new owner, Nubia Mauldin, said she was moved by the dog’s story.

“I heard that he’s hearing impaired, so I want to take care of him,” Mauldin said.

A few days ago, Parrimore said school staff found the 2-year-old bulldog lying outside the school, looking unwell.

“We gave him some water. He perked up a little bit from there, but he still would not leave,” Parrimore said.

A teacher took Yella to a veterinarian, where they learned the reason he didn’t respond to commands is because he’s deaf.

“Which is why he wasn’t responsive to the commands we were giving to him,” Parrimore explained.

School staff reached out to several local animal shelters, but none were able to take the dog due to overcrowding — and, Parrimore said, because of how the breed is often perceived.

“Even the name a bulldog and being an American bulldog has caused some kind of concern in the community and him being placed,” he said.

Now, Yella is heading to his forever home with Mauldin, who already has another dog.

“I just love animals. He will be safe at my house,” Mauldin said.

Mauldin told Local 10 News she hasn’t decided on a new name for the bulldog yet but said she has plenty of food and plans to stock up on more toys for both dogs.

Copyright 2025 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved.