Not a dry eye in the house

This story is written by PetSmart Charities’ roving reporter, Karen Lien Miller

Norma Brown’s eyes filled with tears as she described the death of Zuco, her beloved pug, who passed away in his sleep last month after 13 years.

“It gets kind of lonely,” she told me.

But Norma found the courage to come to PetSmart Charities’ National Adoption Weekend September 14-16. Once there, her sadness began to fade when she met Booner, a 5-year-old schnauzer/Tibetan terrier mix. His quiet demeanor reminded her immediately of Zuco, her beloved pug. For Norma, it was love at first sight.

Know before you adopt
But as with any pet adoption, it was important for Norma to learn as much as she could about Booner before committing to his care.

Donna Hawk, director of the Cache Creek Animal Shelter in Anna, Ill., carefully explained that Booner has dry eyes that require daily medication. Donna demonstrated how to administer the drops into the eyes of a very compliant Booner.

Like all dogs that leave Cache Creek, Boomer was up-to-date on shots, wormed appropriately, heartworm tested, started on heartworm preventative, treated with flea/tick preventative, neutered and micro chipped. For many organizations like Cache Creek, these services are made possible through adoption fees and donations.

All smiles in the end
Donna also told Norma how much Booner likes to cuddle, saying that he rode on her lap that morning during the entire trip six-hour trip from southern Illinois. Norma predicted that Booner would soon share the bed with her and her husband.

“He’s coming to a beautiful home and will be taken care of dearly,” she said.

As she was finishing up Booner’s paperwork, Norma reached into her bag and said, “Look, I brought what I need with me.”

When she produced a brightly-colored leash, I was a little disappointed. I was hoping for a pack of tissues. This writer certainly could have used some knowing that Booner had found his forever home.