A Letter From Enzo

Meet Enzo: Your Future Best Friend Looking for His Next Big Adventure

Hi there! I'm Enzo—a 4-year-old, 100-pound male chocolate Labrador with a big personality, an even bigger heart (as big as my paws), a constant craving for snacks and playtime, and a soft spot for sprawling out or curling up for a nap! I've been lucky to have a loving, full life so far, and now I'm looking for someone who can help me live a more enriched and purposeful life than I’ve had before.

Why I'm Looking for a New Home

I originally belonged to my human's dad Ron, who got me from a breeder in Ephrata when I was just eight weeks old. In July 2022, I had knee surgery to fix a medial patella luxation (my kneecap slipped out of place). The vet said I was probably predisposed to the injury, which happened during an enthusiastic game of fetch when I overshot the ball and stopped short. The surgeon patched me up, mentioned something about 'early arthritis,' and sent me home with meds—but the joke is on them, because I run, jump, play fetch and do zoomies like nothing ever happened!

My dad was recovering from heart surgery at the time, so my current person, his son Sean, stepped in to care for me during my recovery. I had to be crated and wear a cone for 6-8 weeks, and during that time we really bonded—we've been together nearly 24/7 ever since.

Sadly, my original human passed away in December 2024, and even though I was left to Sean, he's not able to keep me. His wife has pet allergies, and between that and the cost of my food and medications, it's just not something he can sustain. It's heartbreaking for both of us, but we're hoping to find me a new home where I'll be just as loved and maybe even get more time to stretch my legs and be the active, happy Lab I'm meant to be.

🐾 What Kind of Home Would Suit Me Best?

I'd love a home with another dog, kids, or just a lot of company and attention. I'm social by nature and happiest when I'm part of the action—not left alone for most of the day. Even if there's a backyard or another dog around, I really thrive when there are people nearby who include me in their day.

I've spent the last few years going nearly everywhere with my person: to work, to the park, around the house—I'm used to watching everything closely and tagging along for whatever's next. But even with that, I think I'm capable of more. I've got the energy, drive, and curiosity of a true working Lab. I haven't had the chance to learn a real job like tracking or retrieving, but I have a feeling I'd love it if someone gave me the opportunity.

Whether it's helping around a property, joining your adventures, or just keeping a steady routine full of purpose and activity—I'm here for it. I don't need chaos or nonstop stimulation, but I do need consistency, movement, and a sense of belonging.

I'd be a great match for:

Someone with experience owning or training Labs.
A household where people are home most of the time, or where I can go along for the ride.
A place with room to roam, and people who understand that outdoor time isn't the same as attention.
A family or individual who wants a companion, not a background character.

I'm not high-maintenance, but I'm not low-engagement either. I need structure, interaction, and a little adventure. If you're looking for a buddy to share your life with—not just your space—I might just be your dog.

A Day in My Life

Morning: I usually wake up around 7-8 AM. I won't necessarily sleep in just because you do, but lately, I've been known to lounge in bed a little longer if that's your vibe. Even still, I'll need a few potty breaks throughout the morning and I'll be watching you closely to see what kind of day we're about to have.
Mid-morning: Most days, I get 15-30 minutes to roam and sniff around at the park. It's my favorite time of day—but honestly, I'd love even more. Labs like me are supposed to get around two hours of activity each day. I haven't always gotten that, but I'm ready for someone who can help me get there.
Workday: I've been going to work with my person since 2022, and while I'll rest for parts of the day, I don't sleep the whole time. I come up to check in a lot—for treats, potty breaks, or just because I'm bored. My person tries to keep me entertained, but I know it's hard while he's working. I think I'd be happier with more outdoor time or a bit more variety in my day.
Afternoon/Evening: Sometimes I get another outing in the afternoon; sometimes I don't. If it doesn't happen, my person tries to make up for it with an evening trip to the park—but that's not guaranteed. I'm flexible, but I'd thrive with a little more consistency.
Evening wind-down: After dinner and a few potty breaks, I find somewhere cozy to crash—my bed, your bed, or any bed in the house. I usually fall asleep between 6-8 PM. I'll sleep through the night with a few potty breaks, but if anything fun is happening in the house, you better believe I'm in the middle of it. I've got major FOMO (fear of missing out) and I want to know everything about everything.

A Few More Things to Know About Me

I love car rides and go wild with excitement if I think we're heading somewhere fun.
I'm allowed on furniture and generally respectful of house rules—but I do make the occasional mistake.
I don't chew on furniture or shoes, but I will hover while you eat and hope something drops.
I've coexisted with a cat before, though I've also been known to chase them.
I've had two teeth extracted from chewing hard things like antlers. There are no other extractions planned and my remaining teeth are healthy.
I take Apoquel daily for skin allergies, Simparica Trio monthly for flea/tick/heartworm prevention, and glucosamine chondroitin for joint support (that arthritis thing my surgeon told me about).
I haven't been neutered yet, but I have an appointment scheduled for May 7th. If I'm adopted before then, my human's father's estate will cover the cost—as long as a decision is made before the estate proceedings are finalized.
Bonus info: Between my knee history and my skin allergies, the vets say I definitely should not be bred with other dogs. I don't try to hump people's legs, but I do enjoy the occasional pillow hump action.

Final Thoughts

I may not be the snuggliest dog, but I'll always be close by—think of me as your loyal, four-legged shadow. I'm not high-maintenance, but I'm not hands-off either. I need someone who'll give me structure, attention, and enrichment. If you're the kind of person who enjoys walks, adventures, and having a faithful sidekick by your side (and sometimes in your way)—I just might be your dog.

Think we'd make a good team? Let's meet. I'll bring the nose boops and butt wiggles.