Dog dutifully shakes hand of owner while being dumped at shelter; now red-listed UPDATE: Rocky was adopted this afternoon by a "nice family," according to Jen Stuart, the animal rescue advocate who spearheaded saving Rocky's life. As for Cupcake (Rocky's sister), she was adopted earlier by a family whose pit bull just passed away. Stuart and all the others involved in getting Rocky into a home or rescue would like to thank everyone for their love and concern for him. They also want to add that the shelter is bursting at the seams and there are so many other animals whose lives are at risk and need a home to call their own. They ask that you visit the West Valley Animal Shelter's website to look at other adoptable pets waiting for a home. ___________________________________ Rocky, a faithful 9-year-old Staffordshire bull terrier, shook his owner's hand as he was being dumped at the West Valley Animal Shelter in Chatsworth, Calif. [FN 1] Unfortunately, Rocky is now on the list to be euthanized, according to an email blast sent out by independent rescuer. He is set to die and needs out, immediately. The reason this man got rid of his faithful and obedient companion of several years is because he and his family "don't have time for [him] anymore." This is a common refrain at shelters. Shelter workers, volunteers, and independent rescuers have heard this "justification" time and time, again. "Someone ought to write a song," said one independent rescuer. There are a variety of reasons why pet owners surrender their animals. Concededly, some reasons are legitimate, such as the death of an owner. Most animal lovers would agree the rationale given by Rocky's owner is not a legitimate one. In fact, they would deem it as inexcusable; maybe even unforgivable. Pets rely on their humans for everything. That "everything" includes that their humans will be there for them for their entire lives, even when life becomes hectic and chaotic. Having a pet is a commitment for the pet's lifetime'which averages about 10 to 15 years for a dog. Unfortunately, Rocky was nothing but an old pair of shoes that the owners wanted to "toss out" at a kill shelter. Jen Stuart, an independent animal rescuer, has spent time with Rocky and is desperately trying to find him a rescue or forever family. She knows first-hand that Rocky is special. Stuart describes him as "happy" and "relaxed," and says that he "loves other dogs and people." She asks people to watch his video so you can see Rocky's endearing disposition for yourself. Anyone or any rescue interested in saving Rocky is asked to contact Stuart by phone at (310) 739-5439, or by email at alexstuart.jen@gmail.com. Other pertinent information about Rocky are as follows: _____________________________________ FN 1: The whereabouts of Cupcake is unknown.