Dean the 5 year old pitbull has a best friend: a red toy ball. Dean happily carries the ball, tongue hanging out the side of his mouth, as he jaunts from one stranger to the next for belly drums. The more he's pet, the more excited snorts he gives! And if you try to take his ball... Dean demonstrates why they're called "puppy dog eyes".
"He is an absolute angel," smiles Abbey Youker, Pet Support Services Coordinator at the Animal Rescue League of Iowa. "He's the perfect example of the bigger the dog, the bigger the baby!"
Dean will do well with a laid-back family. He's the perfect couch potato, and doesn't mind if you blame your farts on him. You'll be cuddled so close, no-one will be able to tell the difference anyways. But there isn't enough room on your lap for two. Dean needs to be the only dog in his household. He prefers to keep all the cuddles for himself.
Dean may be absolutely adorable, but he isn't the perfect match for every family. If you're ready to Fall in Love with a new furry best friend, look no further than the Canine Country Club in West Des Moines. Adoptable dogs will be onsite tomorrow from 10:00am-4:00pm. Adoption counselors will be there to help you find a companion fit for your lifestyle. Adoption fees are just $40.
Canine Country Club not your speed? Howl on Wheels, the first ever ARL sponsored motorcycle ride, is also tomorrow! But don't worry, cars are welcome to sign up too. This 21+ ride includes fun-filled stops, prize raffles and more. $1 from every beverage purchased during the ride will be donated back to the ARL and homeless pets.
Howl On Wheels helps support important programs like the Pet Food Pantry.
"We provide pet food for families struggling financially," explains Youker, "or if you just need a little help to make it through the month."
Families can pick up food for up to 3 dogs and 3 cats. The pet pantry runs every 2nd and 4th Wednesday from 9:00am-11:00am and 4:00pm-6:00pm at ARL Main. When supplies allow, the ARL also supplies pet food to partner food pantries in the metro. Community members can drop off donations of pet food at ARL main.
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