If you are someone who checks our adoption sites regularly then you may already be familiar with Leon. Leon arrived in the early days of the shelter’s history, a dog who had survived on his own outdoors after being spotted for weeks by concerned rural residents; finally the dog warden humanely trapped him and brought him to TriCounty Animal Rescue Center.
Leon has been with us now for about 5 years and we estimate his age to be 6 or 7. Unsuspecting visitors who approach Leon in his oversized kennel by the back door may be jolted out of their skin by Leon’s roaring welcome as he charges his front gate; the name “Leon” means “lion” after all.
“Leon” also symbolizes kingliness, grandeur, and courage and with volunteers that he knows and trusts, Leon is a royal fellow and such a loveable softie: taking treats gently, letting us hug his head and brush him, coming when called, and lying regally in his kennel, just listening to the sounds of our voices while we feed and mop.
Of course Leon can live at TCARC for as long as it takes to find him the right home, but one way to befriend this canine king might be to train as one of our volunteers so that Leon has lots of time to gradually experience you as a trustworthy and “safe” person.
Leon has a lame rear foot caused by the fusion of 2 bones; the foot seems to be sensitive to cold weather and to downhill slopes, and Leon lifts it when he’s sauntering around the yard but it doesn’t slow him down. However, he would find it difficult to manage steps.
Leon has enjoyed excursions in the car to Dairy Queen and in good weather he loves to stretch out in the grass and just soak life in with anyone who has the time to sit with him. He loves thawed, pre-cooked frozen meatballs and is quite skilled at catching them in the air.
Because of his special needs Leon requires an “Adults Only” home; as far as living with other animals is concerned, we’re not sure – he might chase cats or he might decide they aren’t worth the bother; likewise he may need to be the only dog in the home or he may appreciate another dog’s company.
If you are someone who enjoys restoring cast offs, if you understand the value of being patient with the process, and are dedicated to providing the positive and loving leadership that will help Leon thrive, then this “special edition” dog has great potential to be your constant companion. To start off on the right foot with Leon, contact Tri-County Animal Rescue Center on Facebook, call (814) 918-2032, or email: contactus@Tricounty-arc.org