Marty - Labrador Retriever - male/neutered - 9 years of age - 74 pound - black plush coat
Marty is a dog so deserving of a home. His presence in rescue is the result of hardship - both his and his human’s. When Marty’s former human and best friend became homeless, both of their situations consigned them to lives that were difficult and unpredictable. Marty’s human saw the toll it was taking on his dog, and Marty was surrendered to Animal Control.
Animal Control officers recognized at once the goodness and faith in Marty. They immediately set about relieving Marty’s physical challenges. Lack of resources had prevented Marty from flea and tick preventive; as a result he was infested with fleas and suffering from sores and hair loss. His beautiful ears had been scratched and shaken so hard to relieve itching and infection that they looked like they belonged to a prize fighter.
Despite being shuffled about, and at one time kept in a dark shed for want of any better domicile, Marty has never once shown anything but faith, kindness, and trust. His eyes shine with expectancy and interest, and his eye contact is open and direct. His skin has now healed almost entirely, and his coat has nearly grown back in. It is impossible to believe that he is nine years old; he is filled with playfulness and joy. In fact, at times, he is downright exuberant, and plays with such abandon that he resembles more a large, goofy puppy than an adult dog.
Marty is now a total favorite with the humane officers, who take advantage of any small opportunity in their busy day to throw a ball or toy for Marty, or slip him a special treat - both of which he loves. For Marty, who has known so much deprivation, life at Animal Control is a wonderful place of riches and security.
But we would all rather see Marty go to a real home in which he would know more than the security of situation, but the security of love and relationship. He has so much to offer to a committed home, and such an innocent loyalty. He has demonstrated great fortitude in the face of loss, hunger and physical duress, and he has remained optimistic, hopeful, and earnest.
Although we have not had the opportunity to observe Marty in an actual home, here is what we do know:
Marty does well with other dogs, regarding them as he does people - as friends.
He loves a big, comfy bed - a treat that he has come to cherish since being at Animal Control.
He adores being touched and petted and scratched.
He is eminently responsive and desirous of attention. He loves physical closeness.
He does not soil in his kennel.
He pulls on a lead, but shows willingness and aptitude to learn new things.
He is an excellent eater.
Marty’s adopters will need to help him navigate the nuanced world of living in a home, and will also need to continue to support his physical recovery. Although he has made a remarkable comeback, and in fact seems at times to be enjoying a second puppyhood, his ears sustained repeated damage due to hematomas, and he may always have cauliflower ear.
Marty is a dog who inspires us to reflect on the indomitable spirit of a good dog, and the beauty of his great heart that enables him to respond with gentle faith and expectancy. He also reminds us of the dedication of Animal Control officers who work within very limited means to provide the support, publicity, and interpretation that every dog deserves.
Hedgesville Hounds is partnering with Jefferson Animal Control to offer positive training support and counsel to Marty’s approved adopters. If you are interested in adopting Marty you can call Denise Lambiotte at Jefferson County Animal Control, 304-728-3289, or fill out our on-line application and we will forward it to them.
click here to be send a non-binding application
