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My name is Sparky (Neutered)!

Posted 1 year ago | Updated over 8 months ago

My basic info

Breed
Labrador Retriever/American Pit Bull Terrier
Color
Black - with White
Age
Senior
Size
Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg) (when grown)
Weight
Sex
Male
Pet ID
HSOV-A-975

My details

Alert icon Not good with dogs
Alert icon Not good with cats
Checkmark in teal circle Needs experienced adopter
Checkmark in teal circle Shots current
Checkmark in teal circle Spayed / Neutered
Checkmark in teal circle Housetrained

My story

Here's what the humans have to say about me:

Sparky is a handsome senior male Labrador Retriever/American Pit Bull Terrier mix who was surrendered by his family on July 24, 2022 because they could no longer take care of him.

Sparky has a long history with HSOV .. We first met Sparky in August 2011 when our Humane Officer (Butch Morris) picked him up on Franklin Street in Marietta Ohio. Sparky was a young innocent-looking 2-year old 'pup' at that time. He was a happy youngster who was eager to meet everyone he encountered during his first photo session on August 13, 2011.

Based upon the intake record in August 2011, Sparky is likely a senior citizen these days and would be approximately 12-13 years old.

Sparky has been adopted a few times and actually had some great homes over the years. But he came back to our shelter usually through no fault of his own (such as not accepting a new human baby in the family, being too protective of his food bowl, etc).

Sparky has a white-and-black short smooth coat, a long tail, and an adorable (rather mischievous-looking face) with a large black patch around his right ear, a black button nose, and short semi-erect ears.

Sparky is reported to be good with older children (10-years+) but he does not do well with newborn infants, toddlers, or young/small children.

Sparky does NOT do well with other dogs or cats and should not go to a home with other animals.

Sparky is frightened of loud noises, vacuum cleaners, and water. He usually seeks a more quiet place to get away from the noises or one where he feels safe.

Sparky is a smart boy who knows several basic commands (sit, stay, down, and shake). He tends to jump when he wants to give hugs. His favorite toys/activities are his purple dinosaur, rope toys, walks, snuggles, and taking naps.

Sparky has been kept indoors and is housebroken. He enjoyed short walks each day with his family. Sparky is described as more of a 'lap dog' these days.

Sparky nips when he is excited and gives a 'happy-to-see-you' love nip (and not an actual bite).

Sparky is protective of his food but only shows aggression toward other animals who 'mess with his food bowl'.

Sparky currently weighs 70 lbs and is fairly strong/energetic on a leash. He has already been neutered. Sparky would do best with an experienced handler (and a home where he could be an 'only child').

These 'UPI File Photos' of Sparky were taken on June 30, 2021 shortly before he was adopted in July 2021, but we are posting them since Sparky has not really changed in looks. Sparky is still very strong and energetic on the other end of a leash, but he is doing much better these days since he is making a fashion statement wearing an assortment of stylish harnesses. HSOV Kennel Tech Hayley Gorrell chose a formal 'basic black' harness for these photos.

Sparky would love to find the perfect home in which to spend his golden retirement years. Our kennel techs, staff, and volunteers would be happy to introduce you to Sparky.


UPDATE; Sparky was adopted on December 31, 2022 and went home that evening for a New Year's Eve celebration in anticipation of the start of a Happy New Year in his new home. Sadly, Sparky was returned on July 18, 2023 and is once again looking for a loving home where he can enjoy his golden retirement years.

Sparky has spent most of his life (at various times) in our shelter, and he is now nearly 14-years old. This boy needs (and deserves) one last permanent home.

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