Collie, 5, Is Burlington County's First Pet Adoption Of 2021

BURLINGTON COUNTY, NJ — A 5-year-old smooth coated Collie mix was the Burlington County Animal Shelter’s first pet adoption of 2021, county officials announced.

Cooper had spent about two weeks at the shelter after being surrendered because his former owners were moving out of state with other family members, officials said.

He was adopted on Saturday by Edgewater Park resident Timesha Matchett and her family. Matchett said she never had a dog growing up, but she was interested in having a pet of her own.
“I wanted a best friend,” Matchett said.

“Cooper is super sweet and friendly but was also very shy when he came in,” Burlington County Animal Shelter Manager Jackie Dennis said. “He quickly came around with all the attention and interaction he received and was put up for adoption and scooped up by a lovely lady and her family.”

While she had originally picked out a younger dog at the shelter, Matchett ultimately decided on Cooper because he seemed like a better fit for a first-time dog owner, she said.

“He was very friendly and seemed like a good fit. It seems like I was at the right place at the right time to adopt him,” Matchett said.

Burlington County Commissioner Felicia Hopson said the first adoption from the shelter marked a happy start to 2021 and a reminder that other great pets are available and waiting to find a new home.

“I know how difficult it must have been to surrender a beloved pet, but it’s heartwarming to hear that Cooper was adopted and has a new forever family to love and care for him,” Hopson said. “It’s a great first, but there are plenty of other dogs and cats still waiting to find a new home and family of their own, so I encourage anyone who is thinking about adopting a new companion to contact the shelter and arrange a visit.”

Hopson said stories like Cooper’s are what makes the shelter a special place. She also credited the shelter employees and volunteers.

“Everyday they come to work and make it their mission to assure all the orphaned and stray animals receive the love and care they need and deserve,” Hopson said. “Our board cannot thank them enough for their hard work and devotion.”

More animals up for adoption at the Animal Shelter can be seen on the shelter’s website.