Richie and his buddy Napoleon were found in terrible condition roaming the streets. Although they were both neutered and seemed to be cared for at one point in their life, they were in pretty bad shape. Richie has since made a full recover and is looking for a great home.

Volunteer Update:  Richie went to Cranes Roost Park on Sunday. He walked perfectly on the leash and did excellent with the crowds of people and joggers. He was very submissve when people asked to pet him and sat immediately on command.  Several children ran right up to him and patted him on the head and he never even flinched.  One little girl even pulled his tail and he didnt even acknowledge the little tug.  He was a perfect gentleman.  He never reacted to any of the small or large dogs that passed by him, nor did he react to the yippie dogs yelling at him.  He loved sitting on the park bench (in my lap) watching the birds.  He could not understand the whole flying thing.  It was adorable to watch him try to figure out what they were doing.  He would've sat on the park bench for hours, but instead we sat there for no less than 30 minutes.  He was more than content to just hang out.  He completed a 2 mile walk with no hesitation and then sat perfectly for his bath in the backyard.  He went on another 1 mile walk around my neighborhood to dry off and then was ready for a nap.   Whoever adopts this baby will not only have a loyal companion forever, but will gain their new best friend.  He is nothing less than AWESOME!

As you can probably tell, I am Richie's biggest fan. I wish I could tell you why he is still at the shelter, but I cant find any reason. He is a gentleman with a gracious smile, and a gentle heart waiting for a family to call his own. You have seen the bumpersticker, "Who rescued who?"  Whoever made that slogan must know Richie. When you adopt Richie, your life will be "richer."

According to www.dogbreedinfo.com, early Bulldogs were used in the bloody sport of bull bating. Some of these dogs emigrated with their masters from England to America. Eventually the English Bulldog was bred down in size and his personality was softened, but the American version remained a larger, fiercer dog. The American version has longer legs and more speed and agility than its English cousin. After returning from World War II, John Johnson of Summerville, Georgia was shocked to find out that the breed was nearly extinct, and set out on a mission to revive the breed. Thanks to his efforts, they have made a remarkable comeback. The American Bulldog has also been used as a guard and in hunting bear, wild boar, squirrel and raccoon. They have even been trained to drive cattle and guard stock from predators. Farmers prize these dogs for their stamina, protectiveness, intelligence and working abilities. Some of the American Bulldogs talents are hunting, watchdogging, tracking, weight pulling, and guarding. An American Bulldog should never be confused with uniquely different breeds such as the American Staffordshire Terrier or the American Pit Bull Terrier. The American Bulldog is brave and determined but not hostile. Alert and self-confident, this breed genuinely loves children. It is known for its acts of heroism towards its master. These dogs have fought wild dogs, bulls and even fire. It is said "fighting off one of these dogs is like fighting an animal that possesses an alligator's head and a python's body." Yet when called off by their handler, they immediately obey. No wonder they are said to have "true grit, true devotion and true love." Because of its strong protective instincts, the American Bulldog should be well-socialized and obedience trained at an early age. Some may be aggressive with other dogs and reserved with strangers. They need to be around people to be truly happy. This breed tends to drool and slobber. They have a life expectancy of up to 16 years.