Just in time for Christmas, "Church Dog" gets a new life with an old friend

Many of you probably remember the story of Jack, the stray dog  who lived behind a local church for months while rescuers and animal services officers tried to catch him and get him help.   The neighbors fed him and did their best to keep him safe, but the church pastor threatened to shoot Jack claiming he was aggressive to parishioners – a claim no one in the congregation ever substantiated.  Eventually, amid the public outcry,  pressure from the Dallas police, and the threat of a Sunday morning protest by rescuers, the Pastor backed down.

It was four weeks later when a small but dedicated team of rescuers finally managed to nab Jack.  He was taken to Operation Kindness where he was given a bath, medical attention, a warm, soft bed and plenty to eat.   Over the last few months, Jack has been treated for heartworms, received extensive socialization and learned basic obedience. 

This past Saturday, Jack took his first steps toward the next chapter in his life when he was formally adopted by one of his original caretakers.  Judy Guerrero was one of several people who had fed Jack and kept him safe until he could be caught. 

Judy reports that  Jack was nervous the first day in his new home, but is adjusting quickly.  She says he is very smart and anxious to please as well.  Jack’s a little wary around men, so Judy waited until Monday to introduce him to her 17 year-old son, but she thinks the introduction went well.   Jack hasn’t been introduced to her other dogs yet, but that will happen in time.  For now he is discovering things he’s apparently never encountered -  the television, ceiling fans, washing machine, and the phone. He’s also discovered toys and loves to play.  He has his own bed where he sleeps every night and his own room where he feels safe when Judy is away. 

Judy says she will be forever grateful to everyone who helped to care for Jack, to rescue him, and to socialize him – particularly Metroplex Animal Coalition’s Elaine Munch, who Judy credits with rallying an entire network of people to help, and to J.P. Bonnelly who never gave up trying to befriend Jack, and who even continued to work with him at Operation Kindness even after his rescue.

Every day is a new day for Jack and Judy as they get to know each other.  One thing is for sure, they both have a lot to be thankful for this Christmas.

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Copyright Rebecca Poling 2010.  All rights reserved.