I asked one of the volunteers if he could come out. She got a leash, opened the door and led us both out to a small play area outside the building. The little mutt was friendly, but not overly anxious or jumpy. He had no interest in the balls or other play toys in the yard, but you could clearly tell that he was happy to be out of the kennel.
We spent a few minutes outside, equally curious about each other. He wasn’t like other dogs I’ve met. He seemed content to be around me, but he had a mind of his own. Sniffing, searching, seeing his surroundings…much more comfortable outside than in.
I really liked this little guy but I wasn’t sure if this was the right dog for me, so I told the volunteer I’d go home and think about it, and let her walk him back down the hall into his kennel.
When I got home, I called my friend Toni, told her about the little dog, and asked for her advice. She listened, and said, “I don’t want to hear any of the reasons why you should not get this dog. He sounds great. Just go back there and get him before someone else does.”
She drove to me back to the Humane Society, and the little mutt with the floppy ear was still there…but this would be his last day in the kennel. He came home with me. Six months ago today. I named him Fausto…Italian for fortunate.
We’re both fortunate…and Toni was right. He’s a great dog.
Story submitted to Marin Humane Society
