1,000 days in a shelter: Dog with ‘heart of gold’ still looking for forever family
WILMINGTON, Ohio (WXIX/Gray News) – Love, patience, and carrots are the main things Percy is looking for in a forever home.
Tuesday marked 1,000 days since the 6-year-old dog was admitted into PAWS Humane Society in Wilmington, Ohio, making him the longest canine resident the shelter has ever had in its 15 years of operation.
But even with Percy’s extended stay, no one has shown interest in adopting him.
Lexi Arehart McBrayer, a PAWS Humane Society volunteer, is determined to find Percy an owner to live out the rest of his days with.
“Percy is the biggest sweetheart you will ever meet,” McBrayer said. “He is a pit bull, which automatically gives him a ‘big scary dog’ stigma, but he has a heart of gold.”
According to Percy’s online pet profile, he loves to sunbathe, receive belly rubs, chew on toys, and his favorite snack is carrots.
Volunteers describe him as laid back, “the bestest boy,” and a sweet and loving dog.
“He creates amazing bonds with people, and you can see his entire personality change from very depressed to a little puppy inside when he sees his people,” McBrayer added. “I cannot wait to see him form a connection with his ‘furever’ pet parents so they can receive the love we all have for years.”
Sadly, Percy has been experiencing kennel stress, something that is very common for dogs in a shelter.
“Being in a shelter for an extended period of time can cause kennel stress which is very common in shelter animals,” McBrayer said. “The environment in a shelter is not ideal for long term care of animals, and despite the staff and volunteers’ best efforts, dogs need to be placed in a home in a timely fashion.”
Kennel stress can change a dog’s behavior and personality, McBrayer said. Lethargy and loss of appetite are two of the symptoms that come with being in a kennel for hours.
“Just like humans when we are trapped inside for long amounts of time, we begin to feel depressed, and dogs feel this as well,” she said. “Percy has become depressed when he does not see his favorite staff and volunteers and spends his time laying in his kennel with no motivation until provoked by his special people.”
Percy’s adoption fee is $135. He is neutered, microchipped, up to date on all of his vaccines, and is on a heartworm and flea prevention plan.
The shelter staff said Percy walks well on a leash and does well in vehicles.
Percy would prefer a home without other dogs or cats. A private fenced-in yard is also a plus.
If you are interested in adopting Percy, his online profile here, and click “start your inquiry.”
You can also call the shelter at (937) 768-4203 or email PAWShumanesocietyinc@gmail.com for more information.
If Percy isn’t the right fit for your family, please check out PAWS Humane Society’s other adoptable pets here or visit your local animal shelter.
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