The Millstone Times January 2022

A Dog Named Charlie By Pam Teel

While Victoria Petruzzella was in Chiropractic School in Georgia, and her then fiancée, Joe, was still in New Jersey; they were both actively looking for a dog. Victoria happened to be passing by a pet store in Georgia on a hot summer June day where there were about 10 dogs outside up for adoption. This specific adoption company focused on finding senior dogs new homes. When Victoria passed by Charlie, she needed to know more. Out of all the dogs, he was the calmest, sitting there with his tongue out and looking very content. She read his story, which said that Charlie's past owner had recently passed away and he was looking for a new home. She sent pictures of Charlie to Joe and left because Joe was still at work and couldn’t get back to her right away. A couple of hours later, Joe called her back and told her he loved the dog and to go back and get him, so she sped to the pet store where the lady was packing up all the dogs into her car, getting ready to leave. Victoria ran to the car, yelling, “wait, don't leave!! I want Charlie!!" She was asked if she wanted to see him before she put in her adoption application, so Victoria went in the woman’s car to spend some time with him. All the other dogs were in their crates, except Charlie who was just sitting there in the front seat. That's how she knew he was the best boy and the best fit for the couple. Victoria facetimed Joe to show himCharlie and he said, "YUP! LET'S GETHIM!" She submitted her application that day and was accepted the next day! She bought Charlie's plane ticket and he flew back to NJ with her the following Friday. He was so calm that he fell asleep on the plane! It took Charlie a couple of weeks to get used to the couple, but now all three are in- separable. Victoria and her (now husband) Joe, have experienced nothing but pleasure adopting Charlie. He is so full of love. They found out that Charlie was more interested in people food then dog food. He waits around when they are eating to see if he’ll get any. He has a wonderful personality, he doesn’t bark, and he also loves when kids are around.

The sad thing is that after having Charlie for a while, they found out that he has can- cer. They don’t know how far advanced the cancer is but, although they can't change the circumstances, they are loving him and giving him the best end of life they possibly can. He gets adjusted regularly by an animal chiropractor, Dr. Lewis, in Jackson, and loves bones, treats, and cuddling on the couch. “More people need to adopt senior animals,” stated Victoria. “Most are already broken in, well trained, and so loving. If we ever do get another dog, we will be adopting another senior dog.” Senior dogs and cats are often overlooked by adopters. Dogs older than seven years fall into the senior category. Depending on their breed, they can live many years after that. Those that do adopt older dogs find them to be genuine companions and get a lot of joy owning one. Older dogs do adapt quicker and are for the most part, already broken in. The works been done for you. Older rescues are usually crate trained, know how to wait and go to the bathroom outside, walks well with a leash, and often knows tricks. If you’re looking for a companion dog to relax with and cuddle, the senior dog is probably your best bet. Having their adult teeth means less chewing to pieces things around your house. You could also be saving a life since most older dogs are overlooked in shelters. Unfortunately, older dogs are the first to be euthanized in an over- crowded situation. There are also some health/ wellness challenges that come with some senior dogs, which could be costly with medical expenses and vet bills. Some senior dogs’ physical ailments may lead them to be a little aggressive toward children or some people in general. It doesn’t hurt to ask questions before you decide which dog is right for you.

8 The Millstone Times

January 2022

Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator