Another Gabbs dog is adopted by the perfect family.

By Jennifer Hayes, Best Friends Staff

After 14 wonderful years together, Frank Zwick’s beloved husky companion, Kody, recently crossed. Zwick emotionally states the loss “left a hole in my heart with a pair of blue eyes staring out,” however, at 72 years of age; he had no intention of adding another dog to his household. What he did not anticipate, was his schnauzer Greta becoming lonely for another canine companion. Only wanting the best for his girl, Zwick began his search to find an older dog to add to the family.

While his first visit to the Yerington Animal Shelter did not make a love connection; a later trip must have been fate, when Zwick observed Billy in one of the kennels quietly wagging his tail. When he brought Greta to the shelter so they could meet, the two dogs became instant friends.

(Billy and Kat looking out the window while enjoying the comfort of indoor living)

Billy’s next test to guarantee admittance to the Zwick household was Kat’s approval. Initially, Kat fluffed up upon sight of the new dog, though when she put her head down to sniff the newcomer, “they rubbed noses and that was it.”

Billy’s future was now secure with both the canine and feline gatekeepers, but how better to seal the deal than to jump in bed and cover Zwick in kisses? “I thought he was going to lick the skin off, he was so thankful to be sleeping somewhere warm,” chuckles Zwick.

(Billy smiling in his new home)

Billy is one of the lucky dogs rescued from Gabbs, Nevada. His loving and friendly personality remained intact, despite possible years of living outside with little interaction with people. However, the same can not be said for his coat. When adopted, it looked like he was wearing dreadlocks since his hair was matted all the way to the skin. After about four hours at the groomers, he looked like a new dog. In fact, Billy enjoyed all the attention he received and his whole demeanor changed once he was on the finishing table. Not only did he feel much better, but one could almost see him swell with pride from his new makeover.

There was one moment of worry though when Billy become sick shortly after introduction to his new home. Yerington Shelter Volunteer Kris Brown states, “I asked what he’d been feeding him. Well…. for supper, Billy had a slice of ham, three slices of Natural Balance dog food, a can of Pedigree and half a hamburger. I told him Billy’s digestive system might not be quite ready for that, yet.” In spite of that one issue, the veterinarian stated that Billy is in good health, other than the need for a dental cleaning. Zwick also believes that he is already housetrained.

Billy has turned out to be a perfect fit and now they are all one big happy family. “He is one of the sweetest dogs I’ve ever had, and I’ve had a lot of dogs,” says Zwick. “I made a good choice; actually I think he chose me.”

(Mealtime with Billy, Greta and Kat)

How you can help:
• At approximately seven years old, fabulous dogs like Billy are often overlooked at shelters, in lieu of puppies. Age has its benefits since their personalities have already developed. Plus, they have outgrown the puppy chewing stage and are often already housetrained. The love of a senior dog has no equal, since together you can appreciate every day with one another. If you are considering the addition of a dog to your family, please help save a life and think about one already in his or her golden years.
• Adopt another one of the Yerington Animal Shelter dogs. Every dog that finds a new home opens kennel space, creating an opportunity to save more of the approximately 90 dogs that are still remaining in Gabbs.

For more information:
• Yerington Animal Shelter
217 Trowbridge
Yerington, Nevada 89447
Phone: 775-463-6578

Photo credits: lead photo provided courtesy of the Yerington Animal Shelter, showing Billy at the shelter and with Frank Zwick and Greta.
The remainder of the photos were taken by Frank Zwick.

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