Now all Casey Needs Is a Home
www.oneidadispatch.com
May 19, 2005, CANASTOTA, NEW YORK - After a winter reportedly spent chained outside, Casey, the 12-year-old yellow Labrador retriever, is ready to be adopted from Wanderers' Rest Humane Association.
"He's doing wonderful," said Shelly English, executive director of Wanderer's Rest. "He's gained probably 10 pounds. He's a happy, friendly dog with a lot of life."
"Part of any kind of plea deal was going to be that the dog be surrendered to us," said English of Casey's owner's trial. Fortunately, Wanderer's Rest didn't have to wait long. "We did get them to surrender the dog to us. He's available for adoption."
Because Casey is 12, he is eligible for the Senior to Seniors adoption program. This means that a senior citizen, 60 years or older, could adopt Casey for $25. The normal adoption fee for a dog from Wanderer's Rest is $100.
Even though Casey may not have received the best treatment in the past, he's making up for it. When Casey first arrived at Wanderer's Rest at the beginning of April, he didn't look healthy. The yellow lab was so skinny its ribs were showing and he was skittish around people.
"He didn't know what he was walking into," English said. "He didn't know what to expect. He'd spent quite a bit of time on the end of a chain out in the yard. Since that time, his personality has really come out."
With a little of love, volunteers at Wanderer's Rest warmed Casey to people again. "It's amazing what a little bit of attention and good food, a little but of care will do," said English. "Since then, he settled in and really has become a staff favorite."
Casey came out of his shell through the help of some volunteers, English said. The volunteers come in and walk the dogs and lavish attention. One volunteer worked with Casey, gave him a bath, brushed him and took him for walks, she said.
"He's really come around," English said. "I can't believe it's the same dog."
Now Casey's only aim is to please. He loves to meet people, she said. And, like all dogs, Casey has a couple of favorite games, if you can call them games.
"Pay attention to the dog," English laughed. "He really likes 'show me the cookie.' Let's talk about the cookie. He's a great dog. He deserves the opportunity to spend the rest of his life in a loving home."
For more information about adopting Casey, contact Shelly English at 697-2796.
