Golden Bond Rescue of Oregon

Adopted July 3, 2008

Another Perfect Match

After losing our 6½-year-old Golden Retriever, Gus, to lymphoma in April, our 8-year-old part Golden Retriever, Maggie was so lonely. Our house seemed empty, since we've always had at least two dogs (besides any cats we had). We began looking for a dog who needed a loving home. Local shelters and rescue groups just didn't have what we were looking for. After discovering Golden Bond Rescue in Oregon, we sent in our application. Within a week of being accepted, we received a call about a 1-year-old female who might become available. You folks do a wonderful job of evaluating the dogs, and it was determined she wouldn't be a good fit, but another dog was just becoming available.

Riley #1611 had just been taken in two weeks previously, and now he needed a family he could stay with the rest of his life. He is a big, beautiful 6-year-old with a sweet, gentle, loving, mellow personality. Since we are in Washington state, Jared, the foster for Riley, volunteered to meet us halfway in the Dalles at a park. Riley was so excited to meet us (and Maggie). He was a perfect gentleman. After spending some time with him, it was decided by Jared and us that Riley was a good fit.

He did great on the 1½-hour drive home. When he got there, he was intrigued with Kitty, our cat, but didn't run at her. He would walk right by her, so rather than taking a couple of weeks to get used to him, she was fine in just a few days.

The next day was Father's day and again, he was thrilled to meet our older parents, but was a gentleman and didn't overwhelm them, which would be possible at 85 pounds. He is so good with Maggie. After having a dog who was very possessive/protective of us, toys, and food, it is so nice for us, and Maggie, not to have to be so careful.

Riley is a delightful boy. He loves everyone who comes into our home and into our shop office, which is next to our home. He sits next to you and leans his head against your leg, and he will accept all the love you want to share.

He had us in stitches when we discovered that he will chase any light beam, whether it be the reflection off your watch or a flashlight beam. He will chase and bite at it until he's pooped.

He is very protective at the fence line. But after five weeks, he is getting used to the regulars who pull up to our shop and settles down much quicker.

Thank you, Golden Bond, for doing such a good job of matching dogs with families and making this process such a delight. We love Riley and look forward to sharing many years with him in our family.

Doug & Linda, "Maggie & Kitty"