My name is Nugget and here's my story

After 10 years, my Mom decided she wanted a dog! Dad was concerned because he thought Mom was too much of a 'softie' and that a dog might get unruly when spoiled....just like the cats. Dad also thought a small dog would best fit their lifestyle.

Luckily, Mom had fallen in love with a neighbor's Golden Retriever and just couldn't get used to the idea of having any other kind of dog. Mom knew she didn't want a puppy when there are so many older dogs needing homes. Mom found out about Norcal Golden Retriever Rescue, which meant she could have the best of both worlds - adopt an older Golden Retriever who needed a home.

That's where I come in. I was picked up wandering and did my time at a local animal shelter. The nice people at the shelter called Norcal GRR to see if they would pick me up. Being that they are nice people too, they came and got me. And on top of that, they gave me a bubble bath!

Mom just happened to call Norcal GRR that same week asking about adopting. They told her what a good dog I was and that I would probably even get along with the cats. They told her I was about 6 or 7 years old, that I was about 10 lbs. underweight, I was housebroken, I appeared obedient, and that I liked to ride in the car. I would say that sums me up pretty well.

Mom and Dad were excited about meeting me the next weekend. They couldn't get to PetsMart quick enough to stock up on all the supplies they needed before bringing me home.

Since it had been just them and the cats for the last 10 years, Mom and Dad braced themselves for a chaotic household - which never came to be. Mom wanted a dog badly, and hoped the cats would forgive her and adjust quickly. They did. After all, they were adopted too!

On the drive home, I put my best foot forward. Mom and Dad were amazed how friendly and calm I was. I immediately liked my new house and back yard, and Dad thought I might as well get used to the lawn mower. I sat and chewed sticks while he mowed all around me. They thought that was pretty cool. I got a little excited when I saw the cats. One ran, so I took that as an invitation to play. I've since learned they don't like to play much. But that's O.K., I've got plenty of sticks to chew on, and more tennis balls than I can count.

Mom wanted to show Dad that she was no softie, so she set up bedding in the garage and declared that's where I would sleep. Dad couldn't believe she would really follow though, but she did. The next day I was so good. I didn't even chase the cats. I know that made points, because when we were all relaxing in front of the big fire that evening (me on my quilt, and each cat on a lap) Dad suggested to Mom that she let me sleep in the house. Mom reminded him about his 'softie' comments, then gave in. They were pretty amazed how I crashed out and didn't move or stir until they got up in the morning. I like to sleep as much as the rest of them! Mom now feels guilty for having me sleep in the garage that first night. But I forgive her.

Life is good! Mom wants to win the lottery so they can buy a house on 10 acres and adopt more friends like me. Let's keep our fingers crossed!

Thank you Norcal Golden Retriever Rescue for the  wonderful work you do! We are so happy with Nugget! 

Nugget's Mom and Dad