Scout's Story

Scout as a puppy

Pet's name: Scout
Adopted by: Trina and Adam
From: Champaign County Humane Society, Urbana, Ill.

Trina, who sent Scout's story, blogs at Let's Just Build a House, where you can find more Scout photos and updates.

Our dog was first introduced to me by my now husband Adam at the local humane society. I had been basically begging for us to adopt a pet, and when Adam accepted a new job that would require him to be away from home 75 percent of the time, he took me to the local shelter. When the staff first brought the sweet little puppy to the meeting room, he clumsily walked right up to me and plopped down in my lap.

The first night we brought him home, he cried and cried until I of course gave in—I slept on the couch and he slept on the ottoman next to me. I woke up in the morning with him snuggled up under my blanket. He still loves to sneak under the blankets and cuddle.

The only problem was that the shelter had named him "Butch." Not my first choice. His name had to be changed. We decided on Scout. Although, we do call him Butch from time to time when he is being a stinker. We like to say that it was his evil alter ego Butch, not Scout, who chewed on my brand new leather boots. It was Butch, not Scout, who knocked the Christmas tree over when we were at work. Oh no, there goes Butch with the fresh loaf of banana bread in his mouth, stolen off the counter!

Scout is a super happy, playful, snuggly pet. He's a prissy house dog but has a blast every weekend when he visits the farm or the ground where we are currently building our new home. He isn't afraid to jump in the creek, or roll around in the mud. But at the end of the day, is always happy after a bath and snuggling on the couch with us. He really cannot wait to be a country dog next year when the house is finished.

Scout is now three years old and hasn't knocked down holiday decor, or stolen any baked goods lately. He is still playful and full of energy. We love him, and he gives us so much love back every day. We look forward to many more snuggles with him.

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If you adopted a pet from a shelter or rescue group and you'd like to share his or her story, please email me. I'd love to hear from you!