GEORGETOWN, Texas — Rescue dog Champ was officially adopted by his foster, Officer John Schultz, at a special “Champs Day” celebration at the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter (WCRAS) on Monday.
“Your heart goes out for him, knowing what he actually went through," Schultz said. "It’s a new life for not only him but me.”
In August 2019, Champ was allegedly dragged from the back of a pickup truck and run over by his previous owner.
After months of recovery, the bull terrier has healed from what the shelter called one of the worst incidents it has seen. He required multiple surgeries and treatments to help heal lacerations, burns and a broken pelvis.
In December, Champ was living a full life again, even taking a family vacation to New York City.
“I’m glad that I felt that I was chosen by not only him but the shelter staff, that this honor is besieged upon me," Schultz said. “No matter what happens to him, he’s going to be able to bounce back and conquer it.”
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The shelter said Champ wanted to share the celebration with his shelter friends.
“Champs Day is not only a day to celebrate Champ,” said Cheryl Schneider, shelter director of WCRAS, “it also celebrates all of the animals who need a little extra help to find their families and all the individuals who help make that happen.”
WATCH: Champ is officially adopted
Monday’s celebration began with an adoption ceremony at the Precinct 3 Justice of the Peace courtroom at 100 Wilco Way in Georgetown, led by the honorable Judge Evelyn McLean, the shelter said.
“So, after hearing the testimony today, I wholeheartedly grant this adoption between Officer Schultz and Champ Schultz and that is [the] final order of the court," McLean announced at the adoption ceremony.
The ceremony was followed by a Champs Day reception at the WCRAS Adoption Center Lobby across the street, featuring refreshments and free adoptions for anyone wearing a superhero-themed outfit.
For more information on the event and how you can adopt or donate, visit the shelter’s website.
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