10/20/2026
Leigh-Anne Spokane didn’t plan on a name debate becoming part of the adoption story, but that’s how Walter entered the family. When she first met him, he was Dartie, a low-to-the-ground, wiggly dog who reminded them of two very different names. Wilbur felt right for his sausage-roll shape. Walter felt right for his slightly serious, old-man face. Walter won.
They officially adopted him on May 5, 2026.
The timing mattered. The Spokane family had lost their dog, Kayla, just a few months earlier. Coming home without a dog didn’t feel right for long. They were looking for a companion who liked walks, could settle in a crate and would fit into the rhythm of their home.
Because Spokane fosters and volunteers for the Wake County Animal Center, she already knew Walter’s background and had the chance to bring him home on a short foster-to-adopt trial. That time made all the difference.
Walter has settled in quickly. He’s energetic, affectionate and happiest when he’s close to his people.
“Knock on wood, he's doing really well,” said Leigh-Anne. “He is a very good cuddler. Walter is a bit reactive to sounds outside, but we're working on desensitizing him to the many and constant noises he hears on our porch. He's a quick and eager learner and very treat motivated.”
There is also the ongoing issue of shoes. Walter has developed a strong interest in them, and the family is very focused on training him right now on the rules of the house and “how to be a polite member of society.”
This isn’t the Spokane family’s first experience with dogs. Walter is their fourth family dog, and over the years they’ve fostered 10 more. They’ve even raised a seeing eye dog, a specially trained guide dog that helps a person who is blind or has low vision safely navigate the world. For them, a house is not a home without a dog.
“Our favorite breed is 'homeless', so adopting from the shelter or a rescue is very important to us,” she said. “There are so many WONDERFUL homeless animals, and I wish more people would consider adopting a dog.”
Her advice for anyone thinking about adoption is simple: be honest about your lifestyle. Puppies may be appealing, but they require time, patience and training. Adult dogs often come with fewer surprises and just as much love. And no matter the age, training matters. It’s what helps a dog truly settle into a home.
For the Spokanes, Walter is already there. Learning the rules. Taking up space on the couch. And, most importantly, staying.
