May is Be Kind To Animals Month
BOOMER... A Lucky Dog Reminds Us to Be Kind to Animals Every Day of Every Month!
The beautiful pale golden Labrador retriever mix looks longingly out of his kennel as visitors approach. His beautiful coat mirrors both his attitude and golden personality. With his head cocked, ears tipped, and paws crossed, Boomer contemplates each passerby and sniffs the air in hopes of a treat or a pat on the head. He is anxious like the other pets at Southern Oregon Humane Society to find a new home. Boomer’s story however, is one of courage, determination, trust, and luck. It is also the story of an individual and an organization for whom “being kind to animals” made a big difference in one dog’s life.
Boomer is one lucky dog. He made the mistake of trespassing in a farmers field in Klamath County and while he was running away, KABOOM, a gunshot rang out! The bullet passed through his shoulder and exited through his neck. A good samaritan found “Boomer” and took him to Klamath Humane Society where he stayed, waiting for someone to give him another chance.
Boomer found his way to Southern Oregon Humane Society in April by way of the “Saving Train.” This life-saving bus travels to shelters throughout the region and brings back adoptable pets that are out of options due to space and time restrictions. Dogs are temperament tested to make sure that they are super candidates for adoption. Boomer passed with flying colors! Although he will have permanent physical scars from the entrance and exit wounds, his enthusiastic connection with people does not reveal his past betrayal by human hands.
When he arrived at the Southern Oregon Humane Society, a “pal” was immediately assigned to work with Boomer. PALS, (Pets are Loving Souls) is a successful program, now in its second year, that pairs high school students with dogs who need extra love, socialization or training. Boomer was partnered with Damien, a high school Junior who provided lots of reassurance to his canine buddy. Damien spent quiet time just cuddling with Boomer. It was a common sight to see the two lying side by side inside Boomer’s kennel. Damien works with his two PALS 3 - 5 hours a week, a commitment required by the program. The PALS program has grown to almost 50 students currently and so every dog now has a PAL. Thanks to his “pal” Damien, Boomer has completely come out of his shell and relishes every opportunity to be with people.
Since 1915, the first week of May has been set aside to focus on being kind to animals. It is now recognized as a month long campaign to bring awareness about the profound connection between animals and humans. The Southern Oregon Humane Society, a place where being kind to animals is a daily priority, encourages you to show your compassion towards all animals throughout the month of May and every day! Boomer comes “prehugged” and he is looking for his forever home!
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