FARMINGTON – Have you thought about adopting a dog but weren’t sure you’re ready to go through the puppy/younger dog years that include training, housebreaking, hyper activity and high energy levels? Have you thought maybe an older dog would fit better into your home and lifestyle?

The staff at the Franklin County Animal Shelter may have that dog. He is a senior golden retriever and lab mix that they have named Jonah. Jonah may be on the older side, but that doesn’t mean that he doesn’t have a few good years left, they say. He is in excellent shape for an older boy, his eyes are not cloudy and there is no stiffness or lameness when he walks.

Although he is past his puppy stage, Jonah still enjoys getting out and about for a walk, but he isn’t an overly energetic dog. Jonah has an amazing appetite and usually eats more than the shelter’s younger residents, but he is not overweight.

Jonah was found as a stray in Wilton and was brought to the shelter by the animal control officer for that area. Although he is already neutered and was wearing a collar when he arrived, no family has called missing him.

So now Jonah is waiting patiently for a new family to take him in and care for him. One that will play with him and keep him young at heart and one who won’t mind if he wants to be a couch potato now and then.

New dogs at the shelter include a female pit bull mix brought in from Farmington and a neutered male pit bull brought in from Jay.

The staff also invites those who would like to help the shelter to think about becoming a foster parent. There are many types of animals there that need to go to a home before they can be put up for adoption, either because they are too young, too shy or just too skinny.

It’s a big commitment, they say, but usually all these animals need is a home to rest in and some TLC. For more information, contact the Franklin County Animal Shelter at 778-2638.