Port Washington Adoptable Pet Of The Week: Vader

PORT WASHINGTON, NY — Vader, a 1-year-old, is the Town of North Hempstead Animal Shelter's Dog of the Week.

Vader was surrendered to the shelter last summer when he was 8 months old when his owners realized they did not have time to properly care for him anymore, said Genna Tudda, who runs the shelter's office.

"He may have a notorious villain’s name, but we promise, there is nothing nefarious about this boy!" Tudda wrote. "Vader instantly charmed us with his sweet, puppyish face, compact stature, and goofy personality!"

Vader is either mostly or completely deaf. Either his previous owners were not aware or chose not to tell the shelter, according to Tudda.

"Since his arrival, the staff and volunteers have been working with this playful guy on silently teaching commands using hand signals and he is proving to be an 'A+' student!" Tudda said. "He is very treat motivated which helps when it comes to deaf dog training."

For Star Wars Day on May 4th, Vader got into the spirit wearing a special Darth Vader costume and posed with a light saber.

"Add model to his list of special talents!" Tudda said. "Vader is a happy-go-lucky guy that would love to be your hiking, jogging, and yes, photoshoot buddy. He is friendly with everyone and would do best in an active family that is dedicated to training and learning about how to help a deaf dog adapt to life at home."

If you are interested in learning more about Vader, you may call the North Hempstead Animal Shelter at 516-869-6311 or email animalshelter@northhempsteadny.gov.

Before meeting a dog available for adoption, interested parties are required to fill out an application which is subject to the shelter's approval. Once the application is approved, an appointment for a meet-and-greet is made to make sure everyone is happy.

Appointments made in advance will be honored over walk-ins. The adoption fee to adopt any dog from the shelter is $57 and includes up-to-date vaccinations, spaying/neutering, heartworm test, microchip with free, lifetime registration, town license, and a brand new leash and collar.