KCAC's Adorable, Adoptable Pet of the Week is written by Tecla Metzel of Kane County Animal Control.

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“People teach their dogs to sit; it's a trick. I've been sitting my whole life, and a dog has never looked at me as though he thought I was tricky." – Mitch Hedberg, American comedian

When you first meet Tommy, a 3-year-old, neutered red and white Cocker Spaniel-mix, the first thing you might notice is his 100,000-watt smile.

You might also notice that all the woes and cares you were once carrying around with you suddenly seem to dissipate in his presence. The world might even seem a little lighter, a little brighter than before.

Tommy is a happy guy that enjoys playing with soft squeaky toys given to him by shelter staff. If he's given treats or food by hand, he takes it all very gently, almost as if he's afraid the offer might be too good to be true.

It's difficult to gauge how long he had been out on his own before he arrived at KCAC, but his fur was extremely dirty and matted. Living life out “there" can be tough on a dog. When they're finally rescued and brought to a shelter, they might show signs of stress, such as being a little nervous or slightly afraid around new people or other dogs.

In Tommy's case, he sometimes seems a little unsure of himself at a first meeting with another dog, but once he gets acquainted, once he sniffs them and they sniff him back, he starts to relax. It only takes a moment for him to get ready to go on a walk or share one of his toys or play tug-of-war with a squeaky toy.

Better yet, once they both get tired out from running and playing, Tommy can show his new brother or sister how to “sploot," which is basically just plopping down on a cool floor with two legs splayed out behind him and two in front.

Tommy is so looking forward to finally belonging to a forever family. And on that day, you can bet the glow from his smile will be the light shining throughout the universe.

How to Adopt

For more information regarding Kane County Animal Control's adoptable animals and for an adoption application, please go to www.kanecountypets.com.

All Kane County Animal Control adoptable cats and dogs are spayed/neutered, microchipped, up-to-date on all vaccines including rabies. They are tested for feline leukemia/FIV and heartworm.

​The adoption fee for dogs is $200 and $100 for cats. Adoption of two dogs is $300 and it is $150 to adopt two cats.