LAHARPE — He certainly won’t read any of the cards sent his way, but that’s not stopping friends from setting up a card shower for Gary this Christmas.
Just shy of his second birthday, Gary is being recognized by the Allen County Animal Rescue Facility for Christmas.
Gary is a German shepherd mix.
“He’s a little bit shy, but he’s also the biggest goober, the biggest baby we have,” chuckled Brittni Israel, ACARF director.
Gary also is the longest “tenured resident” at ACARF, having been held at the shelter since early February.
At more than 100 pounds, Gary is one of the largest dogs kept at the facility.
His size also is likely why he’s been at the LaHarpe shelter for so long.
The shelter discourages families with small children from adopting such large animals, Israel said. Likewise, he’s too big to be sent to other shelters across the state.
Still, his friendly demeanor makes him one of the more popular residents at ACARF, and an ideal pet for somebody, Israel said.
“He’s a sweet boy,” Israel said. “He gets along well with other dogs, although he’s not a big fan of cats.”
Gary is also house-broken and responds well on a leash, she added.
The card shower coincides with ACARF’s celebration this week of the shelter’s 3,000th adoption. Visitors were treated to hot cocoa and cookies. Those who visited also were given free stuffed animals for their pets.
Couple the 3,006 adoptions with placements at other shelters across the state, and ACARF has saved the lives of more than 5,000 animals since its opening 11 years ago, Israel said.
To send a card to Gary, or if you’re looking to adopt, you can reach ACARF at (620) 496-DOGS or at 305 E. Highway 54, LaHarpe, KS 66751.
The shelter is open by appointment from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
