If the old saying is true that one human year equals seven dog years, then Banjo is well into his golden years.

The 9-year-old Labrador Retriever mix was dropped off by his lifetime owner at the Cobb County Animal Control shelter on Jan. 5.

Although many who come into the shelter go straight for the puppies, operations manager Tom Flynn says dogs like Banjo are ideal additions to a new home.

“You already know what the dog will be like, and what you are getting,” he explains.

In the case of Banjo, you are getting a sweet pooch, who despite a graying face, still has plenty of energy.

He dances around anxiously at the gate of his cage when anyone nears, and as soon as he’s free, he heads straight for the shelter doors, seemingly aware that freedom is on the other side.

Thanks to his previous owner, we know that Banjo is good with children, other dogs, and is fully housebroken.

We are sure that giving a new home to Banjo would be music to this young-at-heart’s dog ears.

His ID number is 526634. His adoption fee is $40 and includes up-to-date vaccinations and micro-chipping.

Cat of the Week

We don’t know how good Rocky the cat’s right hook or left jab is, but we do know that he is a fighter.

Rocky, a large grey and white tabby, has been at the Cobb County Animal Control shelter longer than any other cat there.

While most of us were getting ready for a night of trick-or-treating, Rocky was spending his first night in the shelter after being turned in by his owner.

Even the shelter employees are doing their best to attract attention to his cage. They have dressed up his cage card with neon-colored dots and added this note to the bottom, “Has been here a long time,” with a sad face drawn next to it.

Although Rocky has spent almost three months at the shelter, he is still alert—often the only one to wake up from a cat nap when visitors walk into the room.

He is quiet but friendly, and would do well in a home where he can take plenty of naps in between play time.

His ID number is 524750.  His adoption fee is $35 and includes up-to-date vaccinations and micro-chipping.     

To meet Banjo, Rocky, or hundreds of other animals in need of a home, visit the Cobb County Animal Control shelter at 1060 Al Bishop Drive in Marietta.  To inquire by phone, call 770-499-4136.