I wrote to my family today with some surprising news: we have a new dog! (This is surprising because no one knew that we were *looking* for a dog.)
Shannon and I have talked idly about getting a dog for a few years, but thanks to Pedigree's adoption campaign we decided to take it seriously this year. It was important to us to rescue an older dog – any breed, male and neutered, who was a right temperament fit. Based on the shelter/rescue group-standard list of dog personalities, we wanted a dog somewhere between a "teacher's pet" (me) and a "goofball" (Shannon). I'd also read that black dogs/cats were often left unadopted, but we didn't limit ourselves to black dogs.
ANYWAY: After my last meeting this afternoon, I went by the SPCA to 'just look' a little closer at two dogs that I had seen previously....and well, one of them looked back. Here's a little bit about 'Norman' (his shelter name):
We adopted him after he spent a few weeks in the shelter system, though it's evident from his behavior (and 'altered state') that he was a house pet at some point in his life. He's about 8 years old, a black labrador retriever mix, quietly friendly, perky for his age, and gentle with both adults and small children. The rest we're still taking notes on.
He's been carefully introduced to our cat, and initial indications are that he is very respectful of cats...which is a good thing, since the cat's vote is the most important one. We're optimistic and excited that he seems like such a great match!
Name suggestions are welcome, since he does not seem like a 'Norman' to us...do you have any ideas?
