Caroline and Steve Chandler and their kids, sons Stephen and Preston and daughter Ashton, moved to their home in Buffalo Creek 24 years ago. Today, Caroline and Steve are empty-nesters but have their Golden Retriever, Waylon, to keep them company. Waylon was adopted by the Chandlers almost 5 years ago when he was only 8 months old. He was the first foster puppy the Chandlers took in—and after just 2 hours in their care the family knew Waylon had found his forever home on Bridle Path Court.

 

Although AKC registered, Waylon was in pretty rough shape when he came into the family. He had been living in a horse barn, had a broken ear drum, a severe case of worms, and degenerative eye disease. Their vet was able to treat all of Waylon’s ailments but knew something was seriously wrong with his eye.  After going to a pet ophthalmologist, Waylon was diagnosed with degenerative eye disease. Over a number of years Waylon went through several treatments to try and save the eye. It wasn’t getting better, and with the possibility of cancer, the decision was made to remove the eye—and Waylon has never missed it! In fact, perhaps a coincidence, Waylon will bite off one eye of every stuffed animal he plays with.  

 

So many rescues are described as having a loving and affectionate personality. The same can be said for Waylon. He was adopted during COVID so received (and gave back) lots of attention from the entire family. He loves his belly rubs and cuddles. He is not food driven but does enjoy a pup cup every now and then. He loves the pool, swims every day in the summer, and has been known to jump in even in cold weather. He chases birds and squirrels in the yard and Caroline believes he dreams of catching one someday! Puppy day care is an outing he looks forward to once a week.

 

Waylon waits patiently for his daily walks with Caroline – his favorite time of day. Caroline describes him as intuitive and the best communicator in the family, saying love is his main language. Caroline and Waylon have a special bond that allows her to understand him even though he doesn’t speak. He does well with car rides, even long journeys like trips to Ole Miss to visit Preston. He best friend is Gunny, a Lab that lives two doors away. Gunny bought Waylon a special Golden Retriever bed for Christmas this past year.

 

When the Chandlers decided to be a foster family for rescues they had no idea they would adopt their very first placement. But Waylon was the perfect fit for the family. Waylon found his forever home with the Chandlers who have given him a second chance at a great and healthy life. In return, he speaks his love language with cuddles and affection, providing endless love and joy to the family.

 

To learn more about how you can become a partner with Stroll Buffalo Creek please reach out to Teri Preas
teri.preas@n2co.com