Senior dog follows runner all the way home. Now, ‘persistent’ pup is up for adoption
A dog followed a runner all the way home — and now the “persistent” older pup is up for adoption.
“He is the sweetest senior at our shelter, and we’re really hoping that the right heart is touched by this post,” a Florida animal shelter wrote Dec. 9 on Facebook. “He’s had a tough life. Let’s get him seen. Let’s get him home.”
Orange County Animal Services said Rocky is ready for a second chance after experiencing a rough patch. A woman was exercising when she saw him lying motionless near her running path in October, according to the social media post and an online adoption profile.
“The dog looked like he was in rough condition,” the Orlando-based shelter wrote. “She walked up to the dog to check if he was still alive, and that was when the dog suddenly woke up. The resident said the dog followed her on the rest of her run, and then followed her home. She was surprised, because the dog was very persistent.”
Rocky slept on the woman’s porch overnight before she took him to animal services as a stray. Workers discovered the dog had lived at the shelter seven years ago but couldn’t reach his owner.
“Since he’s gotten here, Rocky has been nothing but a sweet, gentle and grateful old man,” the shelter wrote.
Rocky also is described as a friendly, “affectionate” dog believed to be about 10 years old. He’s receiving medical care and shows his playful side when he brings toys to shelter workers.
“In the two months that he’s been with us, Rocky has improved a great deal,” animal services wrote. “His hair is growing back, his energy is high and he loves nothing more than a long walk around the lake, followed by some pets and treats. He’s learning some new tricks, and he’s definitely learned how to snuggle and steal kisses.”
As of Dec. 10, the shelter’s website listed Rocky among the pets available for adoption. Details about the facility’s adoption process can be found at orangecountyanimalservicesfl.net.
Orange County Animal Services didn’t immediately share additional information with McClatchy News on Dec. 10.
