By Mary Gaudet-Wilson

The big red mixed-breed dog named Riley had no idea what life had in store for him.

Things weren’t particularly going his way and apparently having been abandoned, he found himself confined to cramped quarters at the Newtown Pound. A friendly and good-natured dog, how could this have happened to him?

 Milt Adams had lost two dogs not long ago and having a nice home, a big yard, and a big heart for dogs he was in search of a new friend. When he went to the pound he saw a large spotted Rottweiler (some may remember Clorox) that he wanted to take home. However, Milt has cats at home and it was felt that this might be a problem. However, not long after that, Gerri Breyan, animal control officer, suggested that Milt might like Riley, who was now ready for adoption.

It was, as it turned out, a perfect match!

 Well, sometimes there are rough spots in the road on the way to perfection. Riley’s exuberance and curiosity caused some initial problems. Milt had no idea that Riley likes to chew up computer wires but that is what he did the first time Riley was left home alone. But Riley was quick to learn the difference between acceptable and non-acceptable behavior.

Within several days Riley had learned the routine and was right at home.

 And what a home he got! Milt has now fenced in two acres in the back yard and Riley is free to run and romp either alone or with the other dogs that Milt often “dog sits.” Riley gets along with everyone, including the cats. One of the cats plays a game with Riley, whacking the dog on the head as he passes by.

Milt and Riley are close buddies, spending many evenings watching TV in the recliner.

It seems that they are both living the Life of Riley.