Jimmy greets new people by rubbing his face against them, while doing a mini ‘dog dance’ when they ruffle his fur the way he likes it. While he is happy to stay home alone, he also loves a brisk walk in the outdoors, sometimes jumping up playfully on a human who has forgotten to take him on time. “He’s the perfect dog, and such a pleasure to be around”, says Divya Srinivasan who is the handsome mongrel’s temporary caretaker.
Divya, who works as a yoga teacher and wellness consultant marvels at his unconditional fondness for people, despite his past experience. Jimmy was rescued from a construction site by the Chennai Adoption Drive (CAD) last month after he was beaten brutally by three intoxicated passersby during the Deepavali weekend.
With a swollen neck and injuries under his eyes, he stayed at a veterinary clinic for a few days while he was treated and vaccinated. The construction workers who waited anxiously for news of him rejoiced when they heard he had healed, and are now eager to find him a home that will keep him safe and sound.
Divya jokingly calls him ‘Lord Jim’ (no connection whatsoever to the novel, though), on account of his regal and dignified mannerisms, especially the meticulous way in which he grooms himself. “They are very sensitive”, she says, observing that dogs instantly know when they are in the company of people they can trust. She believes he would make a great pet for older couples or first time dog-owners, given his calm and relaxed temperament, and the fact that he’s a notably low-maintenance pooch.
“Every dog deserves a home”, she says, and is optimistic that Lord Jim will get the fairytale ending he deserves. “He is a shy, quiet and affectionate dog who willingly trusts people and makes no demands”. Jimmy is Divya’s third such foster animal after two of her previous rescues successfully found homes through CAD’s adoption camps. She reveals that the joy of connecting someone to their new family member is what motivates her to keep doing what she does.
“I always cry after I come back home”, she says, referring to the moment she has to part with her animal friends so they can move on to their new lives. “But then I tell myself – they now have a roof over their heads. And someone to love them”.
To adopt Lord Jim from Chennai Adoption Drive at no cost, call 8939311148. He is up to date on his vaccinations and is neutered. Records will be provided to his new family upon adoption.
