The magic of this year’s holiday season had one final gift to give. Edinburgh, a Catahoula Leopard Dog Blend who had been staying at Helen Woodward Animal Center since the beginning of September, found his forever family. And he went home with a very special new brother!
On December 27th, Center alumnus and staff favorite Brad came back to the place he called home for eight months with his new family. His pet parents felt that Brad had grown up a lot and that he deserved a new sibling to bond with. His family took him back to Helen Woodward Animal Center so that Brad could be a part of the decision-making process as they collectively decided on who to add to their family.
Brad’s PAWrents were looking for a dog who was a little older and could play with the golden boy right off the bat. They also preferred a dog who had been looked over — as they learned with Brad, those pets are often the most special. Brad’s family originally had their eyes on one of the Shepherd blends that call the Center home but their number one pick was in a play yard with Edinburgh. The Animal Care Technician helping them, Christine Minarik, suggested they meet the Catahoula Leopard Dog blend while they were out there.
“He came up and started cuddling with them right when they entered the play field,” Minarik said. “They fell in love with him almost immediately.”
While Brad’s pet parents were on board, the real test would be seeing if their golden guy would accept his potential new baby brother.
Brad’s family brought him out to the play yard. Minarik had Edinburgh on leash to keep both dogs safe as they met each other. The yard’s gates were opened, Brad took his first few steps towards his potential new brother… and they instantly became best friends!
“Their personalities seemed to be perfect matches for each other,” Minarik said.
After the face to face meeting, Brad’s family finished filling out the paperwork before loading the two boys in the back of their car and driving home happily ever after.
