Dog that helped train canine cops up for adoption in Brampton

There are plenty of pooches currently up for adoption in Brampton but only one of them has a history of helping train police officers to get ready to take a bite out of crime.

Mustard is a 2-year-old male American Pitbull who’s been at the Brampton Animal Services shelter for several months despite a holiday push to get more pets adopted in Brampton.

But Mustard isn’t your average dog as he also comes with a resume, working to help train Canine officers with York Regional Police last year along with a handful of other dogs.

And while the rest of Mustard’s canine co-workers have since found new fur-ever homes after going to the Brampton shelter last year, Mustard is the only one of his cohorts yet to be adopted.

Spending more than 130 days in the shelter hasn’t hampered Mustard’s spirits as Brampton Animal Services say he still has “a sweet and affectionate demeanour” and “is always eager to make new friends and receive some well-deserved cuddles.”

“This big bundle of joy is guaranteed to bring laughs and smiles to your household every day,” reads Mustard’s bio on the Brampton Animal Services website. “With his playful and lively personality, he is always up for a game of fetch or a walk in the park.”

But Brampton Animal Services staff says not to let Mustard’s energy fool you as the pup also loves cozying up with his humans on the couch.

The big, goofy, and energetic boy does have a few particulars for his would-be family, as Brampton Animal Services says some obedience training is highly recommended. Adopters interested in Mustard should have experience with an active dog, and he gets along best with older children.

Homes with other animals may also not be a good fit for Mustard, Brampton Animal Services says.

Dog adoptions cost $200 plus a licence fee and include vaccinations, sterilization, a free veterinary exam and more to help get your pet ready for their new home.

But there are more than just dogs up for adoption as the shelter also has many cats, rabbits, hamsters and mice. Cat adoptions start at $120 while birds and small animal adoption fees start at $5.

If adoption isn’t an option, Brampton Animal Services is also accepting donations to the Helping Orphaned Pets in Emergencies (HOPE) Fund.

The fund was started in 2001 to raise money for the rehabilitation of sick and injured animals at the shelter so they can be adopted into loving homes, and Brampton Animal Services says a donation can make a perfect gift for the animal lover on your holiday list this year.

All proceeds from donations help pay for extended medical procedures for animals in Brampton Animal Services’ care with no portion used to cover administration or operational expenses.

To see all the animals available for adoption this holiday season or learn more about the Brampton Animal services HOPE Fund click here.