My name is Buster, and you won't believe my story! I arrived at Castaway Critters as a puppy and stayed longer than any other dog has stayed so far. I saw so many other dogs find forever homes, but it just wasn't ever my turn.

Don't get me wrong. Life at the shelter wasn't bad. The volunteers all loved me, especially Tim Pauley. Tim took me for a "day out" every week. We had a great time running, playing, and even swimming when the weather was warm. On the way back to the shelter, Mr. Tim always bought me a hamburger from McDonalds. I looked forward to my outings with Mr. Tim more than anything.

But I still wanted a home of my own. I waited. And waited.

In September, after being at Castaway for a year and a half, it finally happened! Chuck and Zina saw me on Petfinder and fell in love with me at first sight. There was just one problem: They live in New Hampshire!

Well, Castaway Critters takes home visits very seriously. After approving Chuck's application and talking with him for a long time on the phone, Mr. Tim and his wife Pam decided to drive me to New Hampshire to see if this home would be right for me.

There was barely room in the van for me after Castaway volunteers loaded it up with going away gifts--including a custom-built dog house! It was a long trip, but I experienced so many new things like hot dogs, ice cream, Dunkin Donuts, lobster, and strange accents!

We all knew right away that this home was right for me. I settled right in, and my new family is great! Chuck and Zina love me so much. We jog and walk together. I have my own bed in their room. I even have a grandpa that comes to see me. I never knew I could be so happy! And did I mention the wood stove? I really love the wood stove!

I will always love Mr. Tim, and I know it was hard for him to tell me goodbye. But I also know he's happy for me as are all of the wonderful people who took care of me for so long.

Here are a few pictures of me for you to enjoy. Thanks so much to all of you. I'll stay in touch.

Oh, and you can call me "Busta"