Three months is a long time for a dog to be in a pound. There is the confinement, the strange noises, the barking, and the uncertain future.

But the fluffy Chow-shepherd mix named Scooby remained good-natured, even-tempered and loving. However, as time went on and on one would have to wonder, “Would this positive-spirited dog ever get a home?”

Thirteen years is a long time for Judy Caracciolo to be without a pet. She has always loved animals and wanted a companion dog to go for walks with her. So Judy became a volunteer at the pound, walking the dogs and being back in touch with the animals that she so missed. When Judy met Scooby his coat was matted and she spent much time brushing him and taking him for walks around the pound. She knew that there was something special about this dog when she looked into his big brown eyes. A connection was made that proved to be a win-win situation for them both.

Scooby, of course, got a new home with Judy and husband George. As part of the deal Scooby gets full body massages, daily brushings and long walks around town. He also got two playmates, granddaughters Leah, 7, and Alexandra, 14, who are often at the house.

Judy, for her part, got a buddy, and she happily reports that Scooby could not be a better companion. Together they take long walks four or five times every day, and like the mailman, they go out in sun, rain, sleet, or snow. It turns out that all this walking has had a health benefit for Judy who has had early signs of osteoporosis. However, her latest bone density test actually showed improvement.

Scooby also benefits from all that aerobic, bone- and heart-strengthening exercise, but to him it is just another fun romp around town. After the walks, Judy reports that Scooby actually goes upstairs and retrieves her slippers for her. It seems that he wants her feet to be rested for the next adventure!

Husband George agrees that Scooby has been an asset to the family, and is especially good for Leah who spends much time at the house and is very bonded to Scooby. In turn, Scooby is very protective of Leah, sleeping by her bed every night until she falls asleep.

Scooby adapted immediately to the family routine and was well behaved right from the beginning. He loves riding in the car, howls at sirens, and runs circles in the yard to the delight of anyone who sees him.

Time and circumstances may have brought Scooby and Judy together, but they both would agree that their lives are richer and fuller for having made the deal to be forever friends.

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.