Riley

Riley was surrendered to the shelter the beginning of the year. His person got called to serve in Iraq and rather than leave his dog to family members wanted to place him in our pit bull program.

Riley was adopted as a puppy. His ears had been cut off before his person even adopted him. It was a home job, probably done with scissors. Riley virtually had no ears. But it didn't deter this sweet boy's natural temperament. Happy, social, an all-around gentle boy.

Some people e-mailed and called the shelter. How could we put a "fighting" dog out into the community to be adopted? Riley has never fought a day in his life. In fact, he has lived with multiple dogs, cats, and kids, and has been our embassadog in helping new residents feel comfortable in their new shelter surroundings. But because of his home job ear cropping looked a little manacing to some people and some people judged without knowing the facts.

A month ago Riley started letting us know that he had had enough of shelter life. He languished in his pen, sometimes smooshing his nose against the fencing. He sighed when people went by. Sometimes he moaned. This gentle boy deserved a home, just like our other dogs.

A week ago I introduced Riley to my other two dogs. Both girls, both rescues. Both delighted to have a handsome male in their midst. Last night Riley had a sleep over. Today I officially adopted him. He's a quiet boy. There is some reserved sadness about him but he is making himself at home, respecting the "girls" in the house and happy to have a real bed in a real house with a real yard to play in.

I know I'll get some raised eyebrows as I take Riley about town because of his ears. He will be one of the dogs I take to schools for humane education. As soon as people get a first hand look and connection with him maybe we can break some barriers in breed perception and misconception.

As Riley sleeps on his bed in the livingroom I feel my life is very rich. He will have a good life, he will have an opportunity to educate, perhaps even break stereotypes. Yes, my life is rich indeed.