Gonzo the Abandoned Dog Who Won't Abandon His Manners

Gonzo was abandoned and tied to a bench at Greenbelt Lake, but he hasn't abandoned his manners, according to Susie Hall, Greenbelt animal control officer. Now he's looking for a home where he can hang his heart.

Hall fostered Gonzo in her home for a week when the Greenbelt Animal Shelter was full recently. She could tell he'd never been in a house, or got to climb in a bed and sleep, she said.

Whoever abandoned him probably kept him tied up outside, said Hall, who thinks he is a little bit timid because he was neglected.

Despite her home seeming like a new experience to him, Hall said, "He was the perfect house guest."

Potential adopters shouldn't let the size and muscular form of the young dog intimidate them, according to Hall.

"As big as he is, he is very well mannered in your house," she said. "He's kind of like a perfect gentleman, very easy going, very curious, very sweet."

He'd be great for someone looking for an athletic partner to go jogging around the lake with, she said.

Gonzo is around a year and a half old and has all his shots, according to Hall.

The Greenbelt Animal Shelter's hours are Wednesdays from 4-7 p.m., Saturdays 9 a.m. to noon and by appointment. For more information call (301) 474-6124 or (240) 508-7533.