LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Everyday, staff at the Louisville Metro Animal Services (LMAS) are faced with tough decisions.
When animals seem to shut down, or show behaviors that won't be desirable to adopters, their names are put a list to be euthanized. That was true for this week's WHAS11 Shelter Star, Big Poppa.
His future was grim, until a staff member stepped in and saved his life. Now the bond between Big Poppa and LMAS staff member Tessa Patterson, can’t be denied.
"He was supposed to be euthanized that day, so I was like hey if I can get this dog out, and see how he does outside of the kennel, can we give him a chance?" Patterson shared. "He came out, met multiple people, did amazing."
Big Poppa was scared in the kennel. He barked when people approached and staff worried he wouldn't get adopted, but Patterson had a feeling about him, and she was right.
"He was just misunderstood. I love his big smile. He's just really goofy. The first time I got him out, he just wanted to sit in my lap," she said.
Big Poppa does great with other dogs. He has been with dogs on leash and in play groups. He knows basic commands like sit, but his leash skills could use a little work. His energy is considered moderate. He's excited to get outside, but just as happy to snuggle up in your lap.
"He's just a real good boy and he just wants to sit in your lap and give you kisses all day,” Patterson said.
She thinks he would make an excellent addition to any family and nothing would make her heart happier.
"It would mean everything to me," Patterson said.
Right now, Big Poppa is in foster. The best way to meet him is to contact the foster coordinator by sending them an email here.
Can't adopt? How you can help
If now isn't the right time to bring an animal into your home, here are two other ways to help alleviate overcrowding at the shelter.
- Find LMAS on social media and share the organization's posts. This could include pictures of adoptable pets, current needs at the shelter, or volunteer opportunities.
- Become a shelter pet advocate. Pick a dog at the shelter and become their champion, visit them at the shelter and take them on walks, make fliers for them to share on social media, and give them affection while they wait for their forever family.
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