LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Every week WHAS11 features a dog from Louisville Metro Animal Services who is considered "at risk" of euthanasia. These are fantastic animals who are worthy of a family but because of space limitations at the shelter, may never get the chance.
This week, our feature is a staff favorite named "Chia Pudding", who has quickly earned a special spot in staffer Carson Haake’s heart.
"He is such a lover. He wants to be with his people.,” Haake said.
The three-year-old pup got Haake’s attention because of the scars on his face. They don't know his backstory but Haake says it doesn't really matter what happened in the past, this dog has put it behind him and is ready to be loved. “It didn't really kill his spirits. He is just a happy boy."
Haake decided to take Chia home for the night a few weeks ago and learned more about him.
"I took him home because you see the scars on him and I just kind of felt bad. It seems like he hasn't had much love in his life. And then doing that sleep over just sealed the deal. I saw how sweet and loving he was and that just sealed the deal,” he said.
Chia Pudding proved just how perfect he is. He did great with Haake’s other two dogs. He showed he is house trained and knows basic commands. Chia also showed signs that he is a quick learner, he is very eager to please his people. Also, his energy is moderate making him a great addition to any home.
Haake explained, "he has these bursts of high energy, especially when he's cooped up in his kennel all day. But 10 minutes in the yard, you get that out of him and all he wants to do is cuddle. He's just a softy."
Chia is described as a big softy who loves tug of war, just as much as he loves holding onto the rope, wrapped up in Haake’s arms. The sweet boy is beyond ready for his forever family and Carson calls his future adopter the lucky one.
You can meet Chia Pudding right now at the Animal House on Newburg Road. It's open every day from noon to 6 p.m.
Don’t forget, the 3-3-3 rule.
The first three days after you adopt a dog, they won't be comfortable enough to be themselves. They may hide, avoid food or water, and feel overwhelmed.
After three weeks in the home, they'll start to settle in, hopefully feeling comfortable enough to explore and let their guard down. You may notice behavior problems, and this could be a good time to work on training.
But realistically it will take three months for the animals to be completely comfortable in their new home.
Shay McAlister will be introducing you to a new dog every week in our WHAS Shelter Stars series. You can watch on WHAS11 at 4 p.m. every Thursday.