FARMINGTON – Thanks to the generosity of local area residents, a three-legged dog will be leaving the shelter for the last time this week.
In late March, the Franklin County Animal Shelter acquired a 6-month-old Lab/Basset mix with a significant limp. The shelter soon discovered that the dog, Chamberlain, had been struck by a car more than a month previous. His leg had been broken and allowed to heal in the wrong direction, leaving the dog in constant pain.
After the shelter arranged for x-rays of Chamberlain, consulting veterinarians agreed that the puppy’s best options for a pain-free future was to amputate the leg. The shelter organized a crowdfunding campaign to raise the $1,000 to pay for the operation and give dog a chance at a happy, healthy life.
The operation was success, with Chamberlain adapting to the change in balance. On Monday, he had the stables removed and was cleared for adoption. He had been staying with Katrina Smith, a University of Maine at Farmington student that had been interning with the shelter, and when out walking with her one day met a prospective family.
“A family that lives down the road from [Smith] got to meet Chamberlain while they were out walking,” FCAS Volunteer Coordinator Erin Miner said Thursday. “They fell in love with him.”
After a home visit, the family made it official today and adopted Chamberlain. According to the FCAS, the puppy will got lots of a play time with the family’s three children.
Miner said that the shelter wanted to thank everyone who helped make the operation and ensuing adoption possible. “Thank you all so much for making this happy ending possible for our little buddy,” Miner said.
This is a very fine story and outcome. IN 1994 my family adopted a three legged pit bull from FCAS and he was the best of dogs who we named Cyrus, His disability did not slow him down one bit. He was friendly, playful, obedient (usually), and a friend to all he met. He was particularly good with children. My family only adopt shelter dogs. We thank the FCAS for their service.
My niece(in the picture) has been wanting a dog,can you tell how happy she is ,by the big smile? So happy for you all.Chamberlain will be well loved!
Wonderfully heartwarming story! I agree with Mr. Reid; dogs adopted from a shelter make the greatest companions.
Glad to a HAPPY story on the bulldog. Good to Chambeerlain getting a second chance.