WINNSBORO – The Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) partners with the Fairfield County Animal Control and Adoption Center (FCAC) to help find loving homes for animals at the county’s Adoption Center. To that end, every month, the Sheriff’s Office “deputizes” one of the pets at the Adoption Center to bring attention to the need for citizens to adopt, foster and rescue these pets so they can have a better life than living in a shelter.
“It’s a way we can do our part to help find safe, loving homes for these animals,” Sheriff Will Montgomery said.
The Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office’s “Deputy Dog of the Month” for March is Smith. Smith’s deputy partner is Tylor Isenhower, a new deputy who recently completed a five-year tour of duty in the U.S. Army.
When Isenhower stopped by the shelter last week to get to know Smith, their conversation went like this:
“Hey, Smith, you’re a good looking dog,” Isenhower said, ruffling Smith’s ears. “How’d you end up at the shelter?”
“Are you familiar with the phrase ‘being in the wrong place at the wrong time?’” Smith asked. “Well, that’s what happened to me about 1 ½ years ago, but ‘boys will be boys’ and that’s a story for a different day. The story for today is that I’ve been here for quite a while, and I’m ready to bust out!” Smith said.
During their get-to-know-each other interview, Smith told Isenhower about some of the things he looks forward to doing when he gets out.
“I love a good run in a field, morning or night, because I do love my snacks and I have to watch my weight. After a good run, some cuddles and hanging out with my people is what I like best,” Smith said. “With a slow introduction, I wouldn’t mind another dog to pal around with, but please, no cats,” he said, rolling his eyes.
“I don’t mind being in my crate and I’m really good about keeping it clean. I’m a little over 3 years old now, and I’m in very good health. I mean, just look at me!” he said proudly. “I don’t have heartworms, thank goodness, and I’m up to date with all my shots.”
Smith looked up at Isenhower thoughtfully, then said with concern in his eyes, “I really can’t understand why I’m still sitting here and not in a home of my own.”
Isenhower, put his arm around Smith.
“Ok, let’s get our picture made together,” Isenhower said, “get it put in the paper and just maybe someone out there who reads The Voice will see what a fine dog you are and realize that you’re the dog for them. Having your picture in the paper will, well…make you famous,” Isenhower said.
Smith smiled, and rubbed his head against Isenhower as he imagined that possibility.
As one of the shelter’s long-term tenants, Smith longs for someone to take him home. Anyone interested in adopting, fostering, or rescuing Smith or any of the other animals at the FCAC, please contact an FCAC staff member at 803-815-0805.Visit their facility online at [email protected] or at the shelter located at 1678 US Hwy 321 Business North, Winnsboro, SC 29180.
