Barbie Perkins-Cooper, Author

If you read my blog occasionally, you will know what an advocate I am for animals, especially schnauzers. On May 2, 2012, I lost a part of my heart when my precious rescue giant schnauzer, Prince Marmaduke Shamus crossed over to Rainbow Bridge. After his loss, I have been devastated. Unable to laugh. Unable to smile. Unable to enjoy life. Awakening in the mornings, I cried. And cried. And cried. I described my emotional pain like a giant tsunami, rushing over me with torrential waves, sucking me into the deepness of the waves until I struggled and gasped just to breathe.

I volunteer to foster mini-schnauzers. Checking my e-mail one morning, I read an urgent plea from Schnauzer Rescue of the Carolinas. http://www.schnauzerrescueofthecarolinas.org/Adoptable%20Dogs.htm

Due to a hoarding incident, they needed volunteers to take in a few dogs. Immediately, I contacted them, drove to pick up a new foster, and shared my love and agony with him. He was adopted within two weeks. Still grieving over the loss of “Shamus” I cried when his new mommy came to take him home. Within a few days, I had a new foster. His name is Hank. He is tiny, grumpy and a barrel of fun.

Allow me to introduce you to Hank.

Hank  weighs about 17 pounds. His coat is black and silver and he has an adorable little face. Truly, he is looking for a home that will love him and give him lots of attention. At our home, Hank is doing well, enjoying being a part of our family. He plays well with the other dogs. He appears to want to be the ‘alpha’ dog, but will respond well to commands. He knows ‘stay’, ‘let’s go potty’ and ‘sit’. His appetite is great and he finished the medication for his cough; although I never heard him coughing. In the mornings, he was a bit congested, but that has cleared up significantly.

 While working out on the treadmill one day, I looked down to see Hank walking on it with me. I moved over to the right, so he could have a bit of room — in all reality, he was attempting to take the entire treadmill!  He enjoys the treadmill and takes it seriously, walking with a slow pace until he gets tired and jumps off. He is such a little jewel! When he is outside with the other dogs, he runs around the yard, running in circles, getting much exercise and fun. When I sit outside to watch the pups play, he runs over to me, ready to share a bit of affection.

 The adoptive family of Hank will be so blessed to have him. Yes, he growls and barks, and he does not like being startled. I suspect he experienced a bit of life without love, acceptance and affection and now that he has these three components for a happy life, he is protective of it. Adoptive parents must remember, sometimes a rescue animal is fearful until he or she recognizes that his new family accept him and will love him, just like the rescue dog will love his family – unconditionally. Hank is a lot of fun. We are doing our best to teach him ‘no’, telling him not to bark, but Hank is a character who wants his voice to be heard. His bark and skittish nature is simply a portion of who Hank is. Hank is truly a little love bug that needs a good home. If a treadmill is included, Hank will work out with you!

For additional information about Hank, visit http://www.schnauzerrescueofthecarolinas.org/Adoptable%20Dogs.htm click on to the link “Hank”.

You may leave a message with me and I will guide you through the adoptive process.  Hank is adorable!