Picasso, a Dog Born with a Crooked Face, Finds Home with His Rescuer: 'He Is Magical' (Exclusive)

Picasso is a masterpiece to his new owner.

"Watching him yawn is one of my greatest joys," Zoe Ramagnano, VMD, tells PEOPLE.

Ramagnano, the veterinary medical director for Paws for Life K9 Rescue in Los Angeles, first met the canine, born with a crooked face, when he was transferred from the East Valley Animal Shelter to Paws for Life K9 Rescue.

The rescue learned about Picasso from one of their "lifesaving liaisons" who helps at East Valley Animal Shelter and let Paws for Life K9 Rescue know the canine needed the nonprofit's care.

The transfer was set up because Paws for Life K9 Rescue, a no-kill organization, had the resources to address Picasso's additional needs.

"Picasso was born with a rare facial deformity called leftward campylorrhinis lateralis and prognathia. The lay term for his facial deformity is wry nose," Ramagnano explains.

While the medical condition gives Picasso's face a unique appearance, it doesn't affect his ability to enjoy life as a dog.

"Despite his deformity, he lives a completely full and happy life. He is able to eat on his own and uses his nose to smell all the lovely smells outside. He plays with other dogs and toys. He is even able to chew on bones, albeit he does it sideways," Ramagnano says of Picasso, who she describes as "confident, loving, goofy, loyal, intelligent and affectionate."

Ramagnano can describe Picasso's personality well because she is set to be the dog's pet parent. After spending time treating and looking after the dog through Paws for Life K9 Rescue, she plans to adopt Picasso soon.

"He is magical, and I have completely fallen in love with him," the veterinary medical director says.

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She hopes Picasso's story shows the unconvinced that "beauty is more than skin deep" and encourages potential pet adopters to consider animals with special needs. Often, the additional care these pets require is not as time-consuming as it may initially appear.

"He does require his face to be wiped daily and will require regular dental cleanings," Ramagnano says of Picasso's needs, adding, "We consulted with three veterinary surgeons regarding his deformity. None of them recommended surgical correction because he is comfortable and can function normally."