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For nearly three years, I have been volunteering with the SPCA of the Triad. During this time, I've seen many dogs come into the center, then leave to their new, happy home. Almost as many dogs as I see at Country Park, where I like to start my day with a morning walk. The other day, while passing the dog park, I saw a familiar face.

About a year ago, the SPCA brought in two dogs, a mother and her pup. The younger of the two, a male mutt-type dog, had long golden fur, more around his neck and head than the rest of his body. So I named him Leo. His bio and photo went online, we took him to pet fairs, but for some reason, there was little interest in this sweet, handsome dog. Leo was selected for the center's training program, New Leash on Life, making him even more of a catch. But still, no one came calling.

Three months ago, I answered the phone and spoke with a very nice woman, who saw a number of our dogs on our Web site and wanted some information about each. She asked about Leo, and I knew I had found him a home. In less than two weeks, Leo was with his new family and visits to Country Park's dog park.

When I saw Leo's very recognizable coat pattern and long bushy hair, I approached the woman, and asked her where she got him. She happily told me the SPCA of the Triad, and I confessed that I was the person she spoke with on the phone. She told me how Leo was doing, how he loved to sleep on their couch, play with his toys in their large backyard and how happy he made her and her husband. I could easily see Leo was very spoiled as he walked from window to window in the backseat of her car, smiling with his tongue hanging out.

I thanked her for talking with me, gave Leo a hug, and continued with my walk. Happy to know he was one happy dog in a happy  home.