By Temple,
as told to Jean Clement, Riverside Humane Society Pet Adoption Center volunteer
Gosh, the economy's so bad, even a dog can't get a job these days!
Hi, my name's Temple. I'm a beagle, four years, nine months old, and I'm looking for work.
My human friends here at the Riverside Humane Society Pet Adoption Center have been trying to help me find a job, but so far no luck. They've contacted detection and search and rescue training centers. For a time, I thought the Dept. of Agriculture might be interested in me. Unfortunately, the story's the same everywhere. Nobody's hiring right now.
I'm 100 percent beagle. No doubt about it! I have a lot of energy, intense focus and a nose that knows. You should see me in action! Some of my shelter mates just want to play and aimlessly run around. Silly pups. There's more meaning to life than that! A man has to have a job!
I know I'd be good as a detection dog. You need a sniffer? I'm your dog!
I think I'd also be good at search and rescue. I'll go in, under and over just about anything in pursuit of the prize. Or, if hunting's your thing, I'd be willing to give it a try.
It also might be fun to do field trials. Although, I'm told only a human who's learning the sport or just doing it for fun would want me. You see, I've been fixed, so there never can be any little Temples to carry on the champion line.
And to those who think this boy's too old to do these things, I say, "Watch me!" I'm healthy, fit and raring to go!
I'm not interested in money. As payment for my labor, I'll take attaboys. And good meals, a few toys, and a warm, comfy bed.
In the meantime, while I wait for a home and a job, I'm keeping my skills sharp by hunting for treats, taking agility classes, running on a treadmill, and taking behavior training. All the while, I keep watch of the sky and horizon, dreaming of the day I finally get to track something, whether that be a scent or a critter.
If you want to interview me, please come by the Riverside Humane Society Pet Adoption Center at 6165 Industrial Ave. in Riverside, Tues.-Fri., 10-7, or Sat. and Sun., 10-5. Or call 951-688-4340 to ask about me.
