WILMINGTON — As veteran foster parents to four-legged fur children, Tim Spencer and Caitlin Swanson have cared for more than ten displaced animals.
“Last July, we took a mom with six one week old puppies,” Spencer said. “We were able to get four out to friends. Watching them grow up was great.”
Despite years of experience volunteering for Dauntless Dog Rescue (DDR), when Spencer and Swanson committed to caring for Cooper, they were initially concerned for his well being.
“He was in Bladen County, super malnourished, lots of open sores,” Spencer said. “We’ve been giving him lots of food to fatten him up.”
A possible mix of a Great Dane and Plott Hound (the breed that, in 1989, became the official state dog of North Carolina), Cooper is an enthusiastic large dog who has never met a friendly human that he didn’t like.
“He likes attention,” Swanson said. “He would do well with someone at home with him.”
Still a puppy at heart, Cooper is continuing to learn commands and basic obedience.
“His only thing is that we’re working on training him,” Swanson explained, adding that Cooper is still learning the ins and outs of housebreaking.
Friendly towards the other pets in the household, Cooper enjoys spending time outside and being part of the family.
“He likes to play with other dogs,” Swanson explained. “He’s about two, he’s had all his shots and he’s been fixed.”
Meetings that introduce prospective adopters to foster fur children, including Cooper, may be scheduled after an applicant has been approved by DDR. Individuals or families who are considering adopting Cooper, and who wish to file an application, can find more information at www.ddrnc.org
Samira Davis is a contributing writer for Port City Daily, focusing on animal issues.
