Pet of the Week: Toby

Toby is an extraordinarily friendly red and white Shetland sheepdog mix. He was pulled from the Orange County shelter on his last day before euthanasia — this little guy was declared vicious because he snapped at a groomer.

Those of us who work at Home Free Animal Rescue and Sanctuary are pretty sure it was because his fur was pulled, which is not uncommon, because Toby is interested and engaged with people and his tail never stops wagging. He greets everyone with kisses, and we’ve seen no signs of any troubling behavior. He’s been at Home Free for about three weeks.

Toby is curious about other dogs, and though we haven’t had a chance to formally introduce him to other Home Free residents, we’re pretty sure he’ll be fine with them. We’re also pretty sure he’s house trained.

Toby, at about 2 years old, has a lot of energy. He loves running around the yard and going for walks, but he settles down quickly once back in his kennel. Toby is neutered, microchipped and up to date on vaccinations.

Home Free rescues dogs from high-kill shelters or abusive or neglectful situations and provides a temporary sanctuary while permanent, loving homes are found. It is located at 20302 Riverside Drive in Newport Beach and is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and by appointment on Sundays.

The nonprofit also contracts with Newport Beach to provide animal shelter services for the city. For information on dogs and cats available for adoption, call (949) 370-2776, email [email protected] or visit homefreeanimalsanctuary.org.