For Hercules.
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Hercules came to the shelter where I volunteer several weeks ago--tired and weak. He was a stray picked up by an animal control officer after being spotted scrounging.
Herc was meant to be a strong, robust fellow (he is,perhaps, a Newfoundland/Shepherd mix), but his back legs are weak and his vision and hearing are poor. He appears much older than the vet says he is. Underfed, with skin conditions, it is possible this large guy spent much of his life confined to a crate much too small for his size.
Since entering the shelter he has received much needed medical care, and he is responding. Herc loves his meals, and his warm, comfy bed. He is gaining weight and moving better. He is a sweet, gentle, giant of a guy, and I'm nuts about him! I wish I could take him home with me, but I can't.
Here is a close-up of him now, fed and groomed:
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So, my 2013 holiday wish is for Herc to find a loving home of his own soon, where he can spend the rest of his days being loved and pampered. I wish that for all the other shelter dogs, too.
Here's to you, Herc
It is a pleasure to work with you, and a privilege to know you.
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And that's why you do what you do! On behalf of all dogs in need of homes, thank you for what you do. 
Here's a link to his Petfinder bio, which just went up recently:
http://www.petfinder.com/petdetail/28123581/
I do not know the exact age the vet estimated, but was told it was younger than his appearance lead us to expect. 
