Shorty

Entrant's First Name
Jay

Your Pet's Rescue Story
In May 2022, after an impromptu visit to the Seminole County Animal Shelter, I adopted a dog. I've always had a soft spot for older dogs, having previously cared for them as family pets, and recognizing they often receive less attention in the adoption process. There, I met "Stormy", now affectionately known only as "Shorty", a purported 8-year-old lab-mix who had arrived just five days prior. On the day we met, she was newly eligible for adoption. She greeted me with licks and a rare bark, which I later learned she seldom gives out.

Shorty's previous family had fallen into homelessness, and they were unable to care for her. Little did she know that her adoption would be a life-changing jackpot! I introduced her to her new home at the time, a 1-acre property with a backyard creek, and access to all the things she needed to live a happy healthy life.

However a visit to the vet the following day revealed a several health issues - kennel cough, skin infection, dental problems, and a mast cell cancer skin tumor. Fully expecting the potential costs and surprises that come with adopting an older dog, I proceeded with the necessary treatments. She has now been cancer-free for over a year!

Since then, Shorty has accompanied me on numerous Florida vacations, dining out, beach trips, and ocean swims. She recently had a couple dock diving lessons in Deland! I've discovered she absolutely loves car rides, food, people, and playing fetch. Although initially excited around other dogs, her interest usually fades within minutes. Considering that Shorty is likely older than we initially thought, around 10 now according to my vet, her energy levels are impressive. This can probably be attributed to her pure bread Silver Lab heritage (confirmed by DNA test), a blend of Labrador and Weimaraner breeds.

I can’t think of my daily routine without Shorty. She’s my sidekick at work at 3MG Roofing & Solar, always making everyone at the office smile. I'm excited for the future and all the good times we will have. It leaves me wondering - did I rescue her, or did she rescue me?