Happy Tails | Baxter

Every single animal that comes through our shelter has a story. Some are complex, many are sad, but all of them get better the minute they arrive at the Virginia Beach SPCA. Baxter was one of 24 dogs to make the journey from St. Landry Parish, Louisiana to the VBSPCA in August 2023. A sweet dog to those he knew and trusted, Baxter could also be guarded around strangers. This made Baxter a difficult dog to adopt out, and he spent 155 days in our care.

Enter Wyatt, a volunteer dog walker for the VBSPCA. He and Baxter formed an instant bond, and it was soon apparent that the two were meant to be. We recently checked in with Wyatt to see how this pint-sized pup is turning heads in his forever home.

How did you know Baxter was the one for you?

I met Baxter while volunteering. I had started the training for dog walking and was firm that I did not want to adopt a dog for a couple of years. Baxter was the first dog I walked. He walked about 20 yards and did his business. From there he firmly planted himself and would not go any further no matter how much I tried to coax him. He was extremely stubborn, and I couldn’t get him to walk further. He immediately turned around and led me back to the kennel. The entire time he seemed apathetic toward me. He led me back into his kennel, I took his leash off, and he became affectionate. All he wanted was some pets and love. The way he looked at me obliterated any resolve I had to not adopt. While he didn’t want to go on a walk it was clear he did want me to stay and spend time with him. I knew almost immediately that he was my dog. We wrapped up the adoption process about a month later, and we’ve been best buddies ever since.

How is Baxter doing in the home?

Baxter has truly come out of his shell since coming home with me. He initially had heartworms, which was a very long process to resolve. Luckily, he is very laid back, so I didn’t have to calm him down very often. Now that his treatment and recovery are over he is energetic and playful. He can be scared of the big wide world at times, but I am slowly working on getting him more comfortable in public.

What sort of activities do you do together?

We cuddle and watch movies, and go on runs and walks. He has amassed many fans on our walks through our neighborhood. It’s not every day people see a lab-basset hound mix! Baxter loves to play tug of war and keep away. He is also fond of car rides when it isn’t too hot, but, unfortunately, his short little legs make it difficult for him to position his head out the window.

How has Baxter enriched your lives so far? 

Baxter fills my life with joy daily. Every day before bed I spend 5-10 minutes fully dedicated to petting and scratching him. It is a nice moment that we share that has brought us closer together, to the point that I can truly say we are best friends. When I get home from work the stress of my day melts away as he greets me. His excitement brings me back to a childlike wonder and appreciation for the world. On our walks I get to spend quiet moments with him, something I think people don’t give themselves otherwise, at least I didn’t. Baxter makes me grateful. He makes me appreciate the world and its beauty. I feel he has broadened my horizons, and I don’t know what I’d do without him.