West Community Affairs

August 08, 2013

Canine Partner for Life “Star” Finds Her Purpose

As part of the 2010 West without Borders campaign, employees in West’s Exton, Pa., headquarters raised funds to aid Canine Partners for Life (CPL), an organization dedicated to training service dogs, home companion dogs and residential companion dogs to assist individuals who have a wide range of physical and cognitive disabilities. One of the many bonuses to working with the organization was an opportunity to name one of the service dogs. After a vote, the name “Star” was chosen.

For her first year, Star was a “puppy in training” in a volunteer home. She then went to the CPL kennels, where she was trained as a service dog for several months. Star’s high-energy personality was a better fit as a home companion dog instead of a service dog. A few months ago, Star was placed with Zachary Day, a young man who lives with his family in Schuylkill County, Pa.

In his application for a dog, Zach wrote, “I am looking for a new friend who will run, go camping and cuddle with me.” Zach added that he was lonely and wanted companionship.

Zach is an active guy who likes outdoor activities such as playing basketball and hiking. He also enjoys indoor fun with his Xbox and listening to music.

Star’s liveliness and loving personality were the perfect match for Zach. Star likes to take walks, play ball and cuddle with lots of hugs and kisses.

Last month, Zach’s mom wrote, “On a recent night we had a thunderstorm. We heard the thunder begin which usually brings Zach to one of us asking how long the thunder will last. Well, Zach did not come looking for us on this particular evening. However, we did hear him call Star to his room. Later, we found Zach sitting on the floor with his arms around Star, his protector. They stayed together until the storm was over.”

The family loves to travel and enthuses that Star is such a great car rider. She especially likes the quiet time to snuggle with Zach.

“We are all really enjoying having Star here. She is a wonderful addition to our family,” said Zach’s mom.

Star has found her forever home and her forever family.

Several of West’s Exton associates continue to support CPL by providing puppy homes, volunteer support and more. In a recent note from CPL, the organization thanked West for its efforts, and “for making Star a special part of the West family.”

For more information about CPL, visit their website at http://k94life.org/.

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