Bre Burger and her wife Amanda have made it their mission to open their hearts and home to dogs with special needs. Over the past eight years, they’ve adopted several pups with disabilities, each one bringing its own unique charm to the family.

But one day, while scrolling through social media, the couple came across a photo that stopped them in their tracks—a tiny dog with an unforgettable face and a dramatic set of vampire-like teeth. His name was Marv.

Marv was being fostered by a friend and needed a forever home. The moment Burger saw him, she knew he was meant to be part of their pack.

“I couldn’t stop worrying about who he might end up with,” Burger told The Dodo. “It already felt like he was ours, and I knew we could give him the life he deserved.”

In June 2023, the couple officially welcomed Marv into their family.

It didn’t take long to realize Marv had some unique needs. He has a genetic disorder—though it hasn’t been diagnosed yet—that includes a condition called parrot mouth. His lower jaw is short, his teeth overcrowded, and he has a tongue too small to reach a water bowl. He even has a second row of bottom teeth and two long upper ones that give him his signature “vampire” look.

Because Marv can’t drink water on his own, his parents give him sips with a plastic syringe. When it’s time to eat—Marv’s favorite part of the day—Burger props him up with towels, puts on a bib, and feeds him by spoon. After every meal, he gets a full teeth-brushing routine to keep his tiny mouth clean.

Despite his unusual appearance, Marv has a sweet and funny personality that lights up the room.

“He communicates in such a unique way,” Burger said. “He shows love by gently nibbling on my fingers—it’s his version of a hug.”

When Marv isn’t doling out love bites, he’s typically curled up in his moms’ arms or lounging on the couch like he owns the place.

“He’s like a little person in a dog’s body,” Burger said. “His front legs always cross when he’s relaxed, and it makes him look so dignified.”

The couple shares Marv’s everyday adventures on Instagram, where fans have fallen in love with his quirky charm and joyful spirit. But for Burger, the real magic is in what Marv represents.

“It means everything to know he brings people happiness,” she said. “Some might see him as ‘broken’ or ‘ugly’ because he looks different and can’t walk—but he has the power to bring so much joy. That’s his little life’s purpose.”