Smithtown Adoptable Pet Of The Week: Parker

SMITHTOWN, NY — Parker, a 10-year-old male chihuahua mix, was named the Smithtown Animal Shelter's Pet of the Week.

Parker found himself at the shelter after he lost his beloved owner to the COVID-19 coronavirus during the pandemic, according to the shelter.

"Parker loves meeting new friends, going on walks, snuggling, and snacks," the shelter wrote. "Parker was not taught proper manners when he was younger, leading him to develop food and toy aggression and a habit of guarding things he perceives as 'his.' He requires an adult-only home that is comfortable managing this, and implementing strict rules and structure; all while understanding that Parker is 100 percent worth the effort."

Parker has blood pressure and vision problems, and he needs an experienced owner who is willing to put in the extra effort despite these challenges, according to the shelter.

"This poor boy has been through quite a lot in his life and needs a furrever home that won’t give up on him."

If you are interested in meeting Parker, please call ahead to schedule an hour to properly interact with him in a domestic setting, which includes the shelter's Meet and Greet Room, the dog runs and the Dog Walk trail. Family Pet Meet and Greets and at-home interactions are also welcome and an integral part of the adoption process.

Due to the coronavirus, the Smithtown Animal Shelter has had to restrict public access to confirmed adoption appointments and animal/wildlife rescue. Hours are currently Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sundays and Wednesday evenings are by appointment only.

To inquire about the Pet of the Week or to meet your potential soulmate, call the Smithtown Animal & Adoption Center at 631-360-7575.

The Smithtown Animal Shelter's primary concern is finding the perfect home for each animal that finds his/her way to it. The Animal Control Officers at the Smithtown Animal Shelter will go out of their way to ensure both the rescued and rescuer are made for one another. If you have other pets, you can arrange to bring your four-legged family member into the shelter or they can set up an at-home meet & greet to see how your prospective new addition does with other family members, pets or the household itself. Please allow yourself an hour minimum to meet with your potential new family member.

The shelter is also seeking foster volunteers. Foster parents provide temporary care for cats, kittens and dogs in their own homes. Some animals need as little as two weeks of care, while others may need care for an extended time. Potential fosters need to have no other pets or young children in the home.

If interested, download the Foster Application here.