Interviewing a Shelter Dog Owner...

One of the things I wanted to accomplish with this blog was to show you some of the success stories of shelter dogs. There are many dogs that are lucky to find great owners that treat them well and give them a loving home. This is one of those situations. Justin Agler is a junior majoring in Exercise Physiology at Ohio University. About six months ago, Agler came across a Collie/German Sheppard mix at the Franklin County Dog Shelter in Columbus, Ohio. For $100, Agler was able to buy the dog that has now become known as Murphy.



I have been lucky enough to speak with Agler about his experience at the dog shelter and how raising Murphy has changed him.

Q: Why did you decide to buy a dog from a dog shelter?

A: Well, I think they are as good as any other dogs and they deserve a chance. And, honestly, it's probably cheaper than buying them from anywhere else.

What was it about Murphy that you first liked?

He was a cute dog. In the description of him, the shelter said he was an active, playful dog and I wanted a dog that I could run around with.

Q: How did it seem the shelter handled the dogs?

A: The volunteers that worked there were actually very protective of the animals. It seemed as if they cared a great deal about each of these dogs. They turned out to be friendly, good-hearted people that cared about the well-being of these animals.

Q: How did the dog react once you brought him home?

A: Of course, he tried to chase my cats when I brought them home. He had been in the shelter for over four months because he had been sick. He seemed very happy to be out of the shelter and the little cages.

Q: What do you like to do with Murphy?

A: I like to play with him and wrestle around with him. I take him running with me but he still likes to pull me along when I do take him. I also like to take him to the park and play fetch with him.

Q: What is you advice to other people looking to adopt a shelter dog?

A: You should make sure the dog you choose is compatible with you. I have a very energetic dog which is good for me because I'm very active. Shelter dogs just seem to be more caring and compassionate because all they want is to find a caring home.


*All photos are property of Justin Agler and have been published with his permision.