She walked him, liked him and went home.

Paula became a regular at the pound last summer, walking the dogs as a member of Canine Advocates of Newtown. The more she walked Rufus the more she liked this fluffy guy with the big expressive face and friendly manner. Maybe this was the dog for her after all.

Rufus had been at the pound far too long … six or seven months. Volunteers who walked him knew his good nature but also knew that he could be a little wild at times. Also, he had issues with the cat who was at the pound at this time. He had gone home with one person already, only to be returned after a few days. Would the right person come along and give him a home and the guidance that he needed?

Of course, the right person was Paula, who did adopt him in August, and it has been a wonderful match.

Paula reports that Rufus is very affectionate, wants to please, and is a great companion dog. And, as an added bonus, he has turned out to be more athletic than one might have imagined. He loves long walks and hikes, hiking the Appalachian Trail, at times doing seven to eight miles with Paula.

Rufus may have been “rambunctious” at first, but has calmed down considerably and has adapted to the daily routine with no problems. Paula took advantage of the two free dog training sessions provided by Canine Advocates and has continued training at Cassio Kennels. Not only does this give Rufus a chance to interact with other dogs, but also he enjoys this time with Paula, doing something special with her.

Rufus has one amusing habit of stealing Paula’s socks and hiding them in places throughout the house! It is unknown if he is making a statement or just wants to have something of Paula’s while she is not at home, but either way, he is an endearing dog and is lucky to have found a person who has provided just the right ingredients for success – training, exercise and large doses of love.

Story contributed by Mary Gaudet-Wilson, a member of Canine Advocates of Newtown, a group which supports the dogs at the Newtown Pound, paying for their neutering and shots and also providing socialization through daily walks.