Prince
ASPCA Happy Tails: Nothing Compares 2 U
Earlier this year, a three-legged Pit Bull named
Prince
was crowned top dog at the
ASPCA's 5th Annual Talent Competition
in New York City. But it wasn't until this spring, when the rambunctious young thing met his new pet parent, Michael Garcia of Manhattan, that he truly took home the top prize. Below, Michael talks about how he came to live with a Prince.
ASPCA: How did you first hear about Prince?
Michael: I had been interested in adopting a dog for quite some time, but decided to be patient until I found the canine that best fit my personality. I read Prince's biography and watched his video online and was immediately sold, inspired by his enthusiasm in the face of adversity. Prince's talent of being able to catch any ball thrown his way really spoke to me. I was a pitcher in high school and college, and knew that a "catcher dog" would be perfect for me.
ASPCA: When did you officially meet?
Michael: I came to the ASPCA on Sunday, May 16, intending to spend some time with Prince and make an informed decision about adopting him. During our tour, we passed Prince's bed—he was on his back, sprawled out, taking an afternoon nap. What a guy! I spent some one-on-one time with him, loved his energy level and knew I needed to adopt him that day.
ASPCA: Why did you decide to keep his name?
Michael: Mainly because it fits him so well! When we go for walks, he carries himself with great style and is not bothered by loud activity going on around him. Much like a Prince, he has excellent manners and is a total gentleman around my girlfriend as well.
ASPCA: Does Prince have any funny habits or behaviors?
Michael: He has a lot of personality quirks, but they are all equally endearing. He snores when he sleeps and loves having his belly scratched, to which he usually responds with a very contented "smile." Prince is absolutely enamored by any game that involves a ball, and is perfectly happy sitting in Central Park and watching softball games for hours on end. He has the ability to go from total rest to full speed in a split second, and I absolutely love that about him.
ASPCA: What does Prince mean to you and your family?
Michael: Prince means the world to me, and all of the people I keep close to me. He has a heart of gold. Each day I wake up and look at him—always smiling, tail wagging and ready to start the day. Missing one leg doesn't dampen his mood, and as a result, I will never allow anything to dampen mine.
Read more inspiring tales of furry fate in our Happy Tails Archive.