We adopted Stanley a little over 2 months ago from Learn and we are so very happy. “Lou” immediately became Stan and a happy energetic presence in our home. Stanley (Lou) was the “bag of bones” rescued by Learn last Christmas. The first time I saw Stan, he was about 50lbs., bony, with a really sparse coat – but ohhhh those big brown eyes…. Right before last Christmas we had the very sad experience of losing our elderly Labrador “Pete” to cancer; but as fate would have it – that was certainly a lucky day for Stan.

Stan immediately bonded with our older lab Luke. We also adopted “Luke” in 2007 from Learn. Luke blossomed during his year with mentor old Pete; and is the sort who thrives on a doggy companion. Stanley and Luke are adorable together; always in the same place (usually that rather small doorway in the pics). To my surprise and pleasure; Luke became more playful and enjoyed rolling rassling-mouthing games with Stan; even some tug at a lower intensity.

Now Stanley is part Greyhound, Pointer,Doberman??? (something leggier and leaner)and he really can run and definitely also needs more active playtime. Lucky for him; we can easily schedule playdates with Sarah (the lovely energetic Bloodhound) and a few other younger rollicking friends. “Stan the Man” may be the smallest; but also the fastest – and he learns quickly.

Stan has gained 25 healthy pounds and is now a muscular 75-78 pounds of energy. I have also added a few supplements and Stan is growing a thicker coat AND a sort of fuzzy copper undercoat. Good thing, because Stan did get cold and is the first dog we have purchased a fleecy coat for. Now Mom is a trainer of doggy manners classes; so you can guess that lucky Stan also is receiving a formal education. Stanley is a smart, quick, enthusiastic student (as are all Labs). I will admit that originally walking Stan was sort of like flying a kite – he wanted to chase everything; we have since learned to channel his enthusiasm while walking.

Now… critters in the yard; well that is another story. Most of our resident rabbits and squirrels were tolerated well by older Pete and Luke; who would just wag their tails and perhaps bounce some. Stan is on a mission to “get” the critters and even points; so we will have less resident wildlife J. Stanley also enjoys ripping apart fuzzy toys “Stan the destroyer” – but has learned that Luke’s favorite snuggle-bear is off limits. We have 100’s of fuzzy toys just waiting for their turn with the new boys.

Luke did experience camping and swimming for the first time last summer and both adventures are waiting this year for Stan also. Stanley also has a soft cuddly side and sleeps sort of “on our pillows” or as close as he can get. Luke will be testing for his CGC (Canine Good Citizen) this summer and joining mom in some volunteer work for WHS. Luke seems to be a very calming presence for any dogs, loves all dogs, and loves being the center of attention. He has come a long way and enjoys any special time he receives. Stanley will also get to help mom in whatever area he excels. The pics show Stanley and Luke together and Stan’s friend Sarah (also Stan cozy sleeping at night).

Obviously Stanley wasted no time in finding a special place in our home and hearts and he and Luke are both very dear and we are all very lucky.Special thanks to Liz ( Luke’s foster mom), Tonia (Stan’s foster mom),Christine (home visit) and LEARN in general for the great important rescue work you do!

~Cindy & Bill & Pete Luke & Stanley Sites

UPDATE

We adopted our precious Luke from LEARN in December 2007 (tag#1677). Luke is an absolute dear – gentle and lovable old soul who is now officially a “Canine Good Citizen”. YEAHHH Lukie.  Luke was the star in Shy Dog class and was a great calming influence for many other pups as well. Lukie may now accompany mom for some more low-key animal events and share his good natured spirit. But mostly; I am proud that Luke has accomplished this one goal and now has the title to prove he always was a 100% CGC.

proud mom