Booth’s Story

From Elizabethton Carter County Animal Shelter in Elizabethton, Tennessee

We wanted to share Booth the wonder dog's happy ending with everyone. There was a very nice man who came to the shelter one day, and when we asked how we could help him, he simply said, "I need a friend." He was a war veteran who had obviously seen a LOT of life. He lived alone. No pets. No family. You could just tell he would be perfect for an adoption candidate. Not in the wealthy sense, but in all the love and commitment it takes to be a great pet dad. Our awesome trustees took him back, and they searched for the perfect dog. They can match people to pets with the best of them and know all of our animals’ personalities.

They all said it at the same time: "Booth!” He's a two-year-old Great Dane/pit bull mix, loyal, lovable, housebroken and ready to go. The veteran smiled from ear to ear, and Booth enthusiastically gave his paw of approval on his new dad. He's been a shelter favorite since he came to us, but was always passed over for one reason or another.

The man said he was sorry, but he didn't get paid for a few days and only came to look. His eyes were downcast, and he mumbled he really “wished he could take Booth home now.” He never expected to find the perfect dog on his first trip out. Most adoptions run $55. That was a lot more than the few dollars the vet had in his pocket. They all returned to the window to see if there was anything we could do.

Booth was an owner surrender who, lo and behold, had already been vetted and microchipped before he came to us by the previous owner. That meant his adoption cost was just $10! We love our veterans, and the companionship of an animal can mean all the difference to them. To thank them for their sacrifice and service to this great country of ours, we waive the $10 adoption fee with a military I.D. That meant Booth’s adoption for this man was free.

We have never seen a happier human and dog. We all teared up, as this beautiful man just sat in his car with Booth riding shotgun, marveling at his new best friend, hugging him around the neck, gently crying into his fur. This, folks, is why we do this. This is what makes it all worthwhile.