By Madison Bendistis
Elm Staff Writer
Meet Porter, this week’s Pet of the Week. Porter is a four-and-a-half-year-old American foxhound available for adoption at the Humane Society of Kent County. As is characteristic of his breed, Porter has large floppy ears and a beautiful spotting on his fur. Porter has a strong nose, but his heart is even stronger.
Kennel Technician JP Hooker said that Porter was surrendered with Pru, another American foxhound, that may have been Porter’s sister or mother.
“Pru got adopted. Porter was briefly adopted, but he was brought back, the only reason being that the people who adopted him expected way too much from any dog,” Hooker said.
When adopting any pet, the adopter is signing up to give the animal the care and attention that it deserves.
“Porter didn’t really get a chance the first time he was adopted, unfortunately,” Hooker said.
Although Porter’s first adopters were not willing to give Porter the care that he needs, the staff at the Humane Society are optimistic about Porter’s future.
“He’s a good dog. He just needs a little time and patience,” Hooker said.
Potential owners should be prepared to put a little extra attention into Porter’s care.
“With a little training, Porter could be potty trained, because that’s one of his issues,” Hooker said. “He’s earned the nickname Porter Potty, because he just doesn’t kennel very well. But it’s all because he’s stressed,” Hooker said.
The Humane Society is especially eager to find Porter’s forever home because he does not enjoy being in a kennel.
“He has such a loud bark, and he’s so stressed out here that he’s constantly barking. He’s also lost a lot of weight since he’s been here,” Hooker said. Being placed in a household, even in temporary foster care, would be beneficial to Porter’s health.
Luckily, Porter is so sweet that training him would not be a large obstacle.
“Porter is good with other dogs, but he can be a little overwhelming, just because he’s so friendly,” Hooker said. Porter likes to make friends with dogs and people of all ages. It should be noted that Porter prefers a cat-free household, due to the nature of foxhounds.
If anyone in the Chestertown community, WC faculty and staff members, or even students with families are interested in rescuing Porter, please contact the Humane Society of Kent County at 410-778-3648 or by emailing info@kenthumane.org.