ASPCA Happy Tails: And the Winner Is…

Last month, while many were consumed by the b-ball stylings of teams competing in NCAA^® March Madness^®, we launched our very own tournament of four-legged champs. With 16 of our favorite Happy Tails adoption stories going head-to-head over four weeks, your votes decided which cats and dogs made it to the championship round. The final furry showdown starred Sherbert, a cuddly lap cat and eternal optimist, and King, a goofy Rottweiler with a heart of gold and a feline fetish.

The competition was intense—but King eventually took home the top prize, edging out his orange-and-white competitor by more than 30 votes. Undoubtedly, it’s hard to resist this sweetheart’s story. When the elder pooch was seized by ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement Agents in September 2007, he suffered from an ear infection, hip dysplasia and various symptoms of neglect. He was eventually adopted by Ashely Santana of New York, NY, who fell for his gentle giant persona.

“The second I saw him I knew he was meant to be mine, but my family wasn't sure about adopting a dog who was so big,” says Ashely. “I brought in my Miniature Poodle, Phoenix, to meet him, and the two got along great.” She adds: “Now over a year later, King lives with Phoenix and two cats, including a kitten with whom he plays all day. No longer the reserved Rottweiler I first met, King loves everyone he meets and even plays with babies!”

Congratulations to King and Ashely! They will receive a Flip video camera to record future memories with Phoenix and the feline gang. And many thanks to all of the competitors, who won the greatest prize many months ago when they found their loving forever homes.