Séamus, now called Arnie, is a 6-month-old purebred Golden. The surrendering owner told us he had family coming to live with him for 7 months and the young grandson was seriously allergic to dogs. Séamus was in good shape when he came into our program and only needed a heartworm test and the leptospirosis vaccine. Due to some concern about the way he walked and sat, the vet did some X-rays. Fortunately, these did not show any abnormal development or degenerative disease. When the dog is 12-14 months old, he will be neutered. We found his forever home with an adoptive couple. After only a couple of days with Séamus, the adopter told us:

Arnie, formerly Séamus, was brought to us on a snowy day. He immediately adapted to his new surroundings and new pals. We had hoped he would bond with our 6-year-old Golden/Black Lab rescue female, Phoebe. Well it didn’t take long before the two of them became fast friends and they play and play all day long. He has a very sweet disposition and realizes that he is the low man (dog) on the totem pole and has willingly accepted his new role. We go for long walks in the community and he is enjoying the 5,000-foot elevation climate. He has also adapted well to playing in the dog park and meeting new playmates. He eats well and has gained a few much needed pounds. After another month, she related: Arnie is doing great! He is getting long wavy hair on his back now and is filling out. He is as happy as he can be. He and Phoebe can’t seem to stop playing. Needless to say we are thrilled to have Arnie, and he is happy, secure and loved by his new family. The timing of Arnie’s arrival couldn’t have been any better. Sadly we lost Birdie (11½) on December 24. She passed away less than 24 hours after obviously not feeling well. Phoebe, of course, was beside herself, but having Arnie for sure helped distract her from the sadness.

We were sorry to hear about the loss of Birdie, but we know that Arnie’s presence and typical puppy behavior are helping everyone through their grief.