With our annual Shakaroo benefit concert just around the corner, it’s time to catch up on a success story from last year’s event.
Today we meet Kelso. This wonderful rescue dog is a German Shepherd who found his forever home with a loving family thanks to Shakaroo 2014. Lynn and Ross Magill heard about the event from friends who support the Everett Animal Shelter.
“We thought that music, wine and dogs sounded like a perfect date night for us, so we decided to go,” Lynn said.
The two did not go to Shakaroo with the intention of bringing home a new family member. But when you consider the Magills’ history of taking in rescue dogs and that their rescue lab, Max, was in need of a playmate, leaving Shakaroo empty handed was almost not an option.
“We have a history of dogs kind of finding us, instead of us actively looking for them, so we were keeping an eye out for one that might be a good fit,” Lynn said. “We knew the right one would come along at the right time. It always just seems to work out that way!”
Lynn and Ross were immediately drawn to handsome, charming Kelso, but so were many of the other attendees. Lynn assumed he would be adopted quickly.
“I figured if it was meant to be, it would work out, and either way, he would have a good home. We wanted what was best for him first and foremost, regardless of which family was chosen,” Lynn said. “After a few days went by and he hadn’t been adopted, I figured it might be a sign.”
Kelso started his journey at the Everett Animal Shelter as a “serious case.” He was brought in when he appeared to be about 18 months old, with numerous health issues, including ear infections and a collar embedded in his neck, which had to be surgically removed. He also lacked socialization, leading to extreme behavioral issues. Luckily, Kelso took direction well and responded to the training and attention provided by shelter staff and volunteers.
Lynn calls Kelso a “poster child for patience and success,” as he has made astonishing progress from the apprehensive pup that first entered their home. In the beginning, Kelso suffered from separation anxiety and was very skittish.
Since Kelso joined the family, he has loosened up. This Shakaroo success story has evolved from a dog that would awake from a deep sleep and bolt if he sensed anyone near him, to a dog that welcomes being dressed up, vacuumed (with a pet-friendly vacuum attachment) and allows himself to be used as a pillow – and uses the Magills as a pillow in return.
“Nothing ruffles him anymore,” Lynn said.
Kelso’s furry adopted siblings have welcomed him into the family with open paws as well. Max and Kelso are inseparable, and he has befriended the Magill’s two cats, showing them affection by giving them tongue baths against their wishes.
For those who are ready, Lynn explains that taking in a rescue pet has numerous benefits, one being financial. Pets adopted from the Everett Animal Shelter are already equipped with a microchip, are up-to-date on their shots, and are spayed/neutered. The shelter pets also benefit from the extensive knowledge and experience of the shelter team. Most importantly, the love and gratitude shelter pets have for those who give them a second chance is immeasurable.
The Magills highly recommend Shakaroo, saying it’s a wonderful night for a terrific cause. “Listen to some music, go grab a merlot, say hi to the dogs,” Lynn said.
Do you want to join in on the Shakaroo fun? For $25, you can reserve a spot at the Everett Performing Arts Center for a benefit concert and Pooch Parade on Feb. 14 from 7-9:30 p.m. To purchase tickets, visit the Everett Animal Shelter, call 425-257-6040, email shakaroo@everettwa.gov or go online to www.everettarf.org.
Learn more about the Everett Animal Shelter. Plan a visit today, follow us on Facebook and Twitter, and check out all of our adoptable pets. And be sure to watch our featured Pet of the Week on the Everett Channel: www.youtube.com/thecityofEverett.
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