Patriot story: Robert and Baxter

ClosedDeadline: 06/22/2015

Story Details

Background:

Robert is a Navy veteran who in February 2015 adopted Baxter, a then three year-old Beagle mix. We gave a waiver to Robert to adopt from a non-partner shelter, which we would not like to include in the story. The writer will need to phone Robert to ask questions about his military service and how Baxter has enhanced his life. **NEED PHOTOS OF ROBERT AND BAXTER** Must send to patriot@petsforpatriots.org or upload to our contact page; DO NOT send to writer.
  • Assignment goal is to synthesize the information provided by the member patriot into a compelling story
  • It is not necessary to tell the veteran's story in the order that s/he provided the information unless that is the best way to tell the story
  • It is not necessary to use all the quotes provided
  • You may make minor adjustments to the quotes only to correct for grammar, punctuation, spelling, etc.
  • Punctuation always resides inside the quote marks, e.g., "like this," and not "like this",
  • Close the story with a compelling call to action or question based upon the story's narrative and place in italics at the end, e.g., What are you more willing and able to do now that you have a pet in your life?

Quotes:

You asked for a few words about our new adopted dog, Baxter, a 3 year old Beagle-Jack Russell mix. I am a Navy Vet from the Vietnam era and have rescued 8 dogs over time. We had a 15 year old Shih Tzu, Maggue, and a 4 year old Beagle, Blue, and the older dog wasn't well and the Beagle was gaining weight due to lethargy, so we searched for another companion dog to adopt. Thus we found Baxter.Thank you Pets for Patriots for being a part of this endeavor. Baxter came home with us on February 13, 2015 and the Maggie died ten days later, so my Maggie at least got to meet Baxter and show him the good peeing spots around our yard. Baxter has several other names that he goes by, especially in the morning, when he is Mr. Enthusiasm. Sometimes he is Circus Boy from all the circles and flips he does, and sometimes he's just "Wild Man" who flies around the yard (a fenced area 150'x80'). Blue is now losing weight from trying to keep up with Baxter. Everything has worked out well, and once again, we thanks you! ++ Baxter is doing great. He has a second name, “Mr. Enthusiasm”. His motor runs and runs, and then it finally dies out and he’s sound asleep anytime day or night. We love him. ++ Baxter is doing great. There is a companion dog named Blue who we rescued 3 years ago at age 2. We have a large fenced in yard and Baxter loves to race around from one end to the other. He is very energetic, very fast, and very loving. We are happy campers, and thanks for your support.