At the beginning of September, one of the most stunning pitties I've seen since I began volunteering, strolled through the shelter doors as a stray. His person was in jail at the time and could not come to claim him before his review date was "up" (AKA - he became available for adoption...). For weeks, this poor boy could not go outside. :( It was heart breaking to walk by his kennel and see him suffering, yearning to roll around in the grass and play fetch! Thankfully, his person managed to come in 2 weeks later, explain her story, and take Papa home with her. I felt relieved knowing that Papa was finally away from the shelter, back in the comfort of his home where he belonged.
Then strangely, Papa returned to us on the 6th of October, believed to have "escaped' from his back yard or home. "How can this be?" I thought. I stopped by his kennel and said, "Aren't you supposed to be home?" -- he looked at me, tilted his head, and barked. Almost like he was saying, "YES! Lemme OUT!"
For 2 more weeks, Papa was confined in the small concrete kennel, not allowed to go for walks or have visitors (shelter policy). I'd walk by his kennel every day, offer him a treat or a small pet through the kennel door. Papa was going absolutely mad! This handsome boy has an enormous amount of energy and being cooped up was making him act out in his kennel. His new review date was on October 16th, but once again his guardian had failed to make an appearance.
4 days later and still no word. So -- Papa is officially up for adoption, ladies and gentlemen. Today was his first walk in over 2 weeks. And let me tell you, I think Papa has fallen in love with me simply for taking him outside! This boy charged for the door and immediately upon being outside, he galloped to the nearest plot of grass and began to roll. Just roll. His tail was wagging with pure pleasure, his tongue was hanging out, and he did a little dance on the grass.
I don't think I have ever seen a dog be so grateful, so thankful to be taken for a walk. I plan on doing it again tomorrow. :)
2 comments:
Thanks, Sam, for your frequent, and detailed updates about the shelter dogs! Much appreciated!
Dorothy
Sam, Papa was so lucky to get a dose of your loving. I pray for a good outcome for him, even though the odds are currently stacked against him. You are golden.
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