MUTT MISSION WITH A
Tail-wagging mascot handles outreach for animal shelter with a Velvet paw
When entering the Texarkana Animal Care & Adoption Center, one finds a modest office, a desk with a polite receptionist, spare furniture and, just maybe, a dark grey-black wire-haired terrier looking up expectantly, tale politely wagging. This ambassador of the center is Velvet, and she is part of the staff.
“She is part of the family,” said Shamaya Franklin, receptionist and media liaison.
Velvet is described as coming from a “dysfunctional home,” from a family that was not taking proper care of her.
“She originally was on the adoption floor,” Franklin said. “But she charmed Charles Lokey (center manager) and the staff and now is one of us.”
Franklin has associated with the center since age 16. Now an employee, she has also taken in rescue animals. Now she observes Velvet daily as she mingles with staff and prospective adopters.
“Velvet is charismatic,” she said. “She is good at calming people down. She is also house trained, doesn’t leave a mess. When customers show up, she greets them
and makes them feel at home.”
The terrier also likes to travel, accompanying Lokey and other employees on errands, both animal control officers out on the job and other employees.
“She is by their side, all the way,” Franklin said. “She is even protective. She may be small, but she will bark.”
Staff members describe Velvet as a one-of-a-kind dog. A shelter mascot is not uncommon, but Velvet’s expeditionary function is unique. As the shelter employees go about town on their rounds, the furry, funny escort may be part of the entourage.
Franklin says adopting a shelter animal is one of the kindest things animal lovers can do.
“If you have the biggest heart for animals and are looking into a new family member, this is a good investment,” she said. “Keep in mind, you don’t just get a good pet, you save a life.”