“I adopted Charley when she was 8 weeks old,” says Kim Fennema. She welcomed this Lab mix from Florida All Retriever Rescue (FARR) with open arms. “The mother and puppies were brought here from Alabama to Florida with the Pilots for Paws program.” 

Charley has lots of brothers and sisters with 10 surviving puppies in her litter. Kim was fortunate enough to get one from FARR, which fosters most of the dogs. Furry friends in are fostered in the comfort of people’s homes as they are cared for and socialized. 

When she went to look at Charley, she went to the foster mom’s house. The foster mom had Charley’s mom and all ten puppies. “It worked out for me,” says Kim. She adopted Charley and this beloved dog was thrilled to find her FUREVER home. 

Charley, who is all black with white paws and white markings on her chest, is dog-gone adorable.  She has a sweet personality and is very loving. With her constant companionship, unconditional love, and wagging tail, Kim is thrilled to have her fuzzy friend. 

Lots of Energy!

Charley, who is now 2 ½ , has the energy of a wild toddler. Her playful personality is delightful. Kim jokes, “She’s either going 100 mph or asleep.” At 59 pounds, Charley is actually the smallest of the litter. However, by her boundless energy, you would never guess.

A master swimmer, Charley has the doggie paddle down. She loves the water and it’s a sight to see. As for other dogs, Charley would rather keep to herself. 

“She doesn’t really care about chasing other dogs at the park. She only wants to fetch, retrieve, and bring back her tennis ball,” explains Kim.

Minding Her Manners 

Recently, Charley went to a 22-day program at The Doghouse LLC in St. Pete, where she learned to heel, place, stay, and all the basic commands. The Doghouse, which is owned by a local husband and wife, raises Labs. 

“I am a really big fan of the Doghouse LLC,” says Kim. “If I have to go out of town, she goes there to hang out.” The owners have raised Labs and they love having Charley at their facility. 

From Texas to Florida 

Kim, who moved to Florida from Austin, Texas prior to the pandemic, decided to adopt a puppy during Covid. It added happiness to her days of working remotely, which she still does today. Interestingly, she is able to work in catering sales for the University of Texas – Austin while working in St. Pete. She couldn’t be happier about that. 

Kim also feels fortunate to live near her son and daughter-in-law here in St. Petersburg. They reside 2 miles away. With family nearby and a four-legged friend at home, Kim feels fortunate to live here in the Sunshine State. This animal lover wouldn’t have it any other way. 

If you see Charley out and about, be sure to say hello! If she’s not distracted by a tennis ball, she would love to meet and greet some more friendly folks here in St. Pete.