06/07/2026
Our 2nd Senior Sunday Pet is Kirby. He is 6 months shy of hitting the Senior category (8 years old is the norm) but we don't want him still living at the WakeGov Pets: Wake County Animal Center when he hits that milestone.
When you look at his older pictures you may recognize him as Crusty Crab, so named because life handed him a few challenges early on, and he arrived looking a bit like he'd been through one too many adventures. After a regimen of omega 3, a much-needed dental makeover and with a spa appointment booked, Kirby is embracing his fresh start with style and his new name. This guy is polishing up nicely and proving that it's never too late for a second chance.
In playgroup, he happily ran around with a female partner and clearly enjoyed the outing. When he realized she was a girl, he had a brief moment of misplaced enthusiasm, but he took her correction well and adjusted appropriately - showing that he can read cues and respond nicely.
Kirby is young at heart, engages well with people, and listens nicely. He already knows how to sit and is very treat motivated, making him a great candidate for continued training. He was easy to collar and walk, though he can be jumpy at first in excitement.
Inside the building, Kirby can be reactive due to all the noise and commotion, but this likely ties back to limited exercise and stimulation. With regular outlets for his energy, this jumpiness should calm down, letting his better qualities shine through.
Although he is heartworm positive, it is treatable and not contagious. Friends of Wake County Animal Center has provided a $600 sponsorship to help cover the cost of treatment. Email [email protected] for more information.
If you're interested in learning more about him, please reach out to our volunteer matchmakers at [email protected] with the subject line "Kirby 265382".
But even better would be to meet him at WakeGov Pets: Wake County Animal Center. Adoption hours are 12-6 every day. Located at 820 Beacon Lake Dr in Raleigh NC.
See more Kirby pictures by Five Freedoms Photography: Raleigh Pet Photographer in his bio. Link in comments.