At a Glance
- Percy, an 8-year-old American Staffordshire terrier, will mark 1,500 days at PAWS Humane Society on Jan. 23
- The Ohio shelter is hosting a “Paw-ty for Percy” on Jan. 24 to find him a forever home
- Percy has lived at the shelter for four years-half his life
Why it matters: The event spotlights long-term shelter pets who are often overlooked despite being ready for adoption.
Percy the American Staffordshire terrier loves sunbathing, belly rubs, treats and toys. Yet the 8-year-old dog has spent half his life-four full years-inside PAWS Humane Society in Wilmington, Ohio. On Jan. 23 he will log 1,500 days at the shelter, prompting staff to throw him a public birthday party they hope will finally end his wait for a home.
The Party Plan
PAWS announced the “Paw-ty for Percy” on Jan. 11 via Facebook, inviting potential adopters and community members to meet the dog on Saturday, Jan. 24 at 2:00 p.m. sharp. The shelter is located at 5312 N. U.S. Highway 68, and guests are asked to RSVP so staff can prepare enough treats for both two- and four-legged attendees.
Shelter volunteers call Percy “the bestest boy” and praise his calm leash manners and easygoing car rides. Despite being passed over for hundreds of days, Percy greets visitors with tail wags and a sunny outlook, according to News Of Losangeles.
Percy’s Profile
- Neutered, microchipped and current on vaccinations
- House-trained
- Best as the only pet (no dogs or cats)
- Loves people once he feels comfortable
- Adoption fee already covered
“Meet Percy, an adult dog with a big heart and lots of love to give!” his adoption page reads. Staff emphasize that while Percy needs a pet-free home, he thrives on human attention and quickly bonds with new friends.
Why He’s Been Overlooked
PAWS told WDTN that loving, loyal dogs like Percy often fade into the background amid constant newcomer arrivals. Large, adult bully breeds face longer stays nationwide, and Percy’s requirement to be the only animal narrows the pool further. Still, volunteers insist he has personality plus and deserves a couch to call his own.
How to Help
Attend the party, share Percy’s story online, or apply to adopt directly through the PAWS Humane Society website. Every share, according to News Of Losangeles, increases the odds that the dog who has watched 1,500 sunsets from a kennel will soon curl up in a living-room sunbeam instead.
Key Takeaways
- Percy’s milestone stay highlights how long-term shelter dogs can be invisible
- A single event can change a pet’s future
- Adoption requirements-like no other pets-are negotiable for the right match
- Community visibility turns statistics into success stories
