Story #32: Duffy, Our Adventure Buddy
As told by Gary and Melissa Porter, Adopters & Donors
A Friendship That Lasted a Lifetime
Long before online adoption sites existed, we discovered Duffy in the newspaper. He was “Pet of the Week” at Anderson Humane, listed as a “Lively Bull Terrier Mix.” That description barely captured his boundless energy and curious spirit. From the moment we met him at his Meet and Greet in South Elgin, we felt an instant and undeniable connection. He jumped into our hearts, and we knew he belonged with us.
We brought Duffy home to Geneva in September 1989.
For more than thirteen years, he was more than our dog. He was family. Every day was an adventure. He ran alongside us on morning jogs, accompanied us on trips across Montana, explored new trails with boundless enthusiasm, and curled up at our feet in quiet moments at home. Duffy had a personality that filled a room and a spirit that reminded us how joyful life could be when shared with someone who truly loves you.
Duffy was the perfect companion for an active couple just starting life together. He taught us patience, loyalty, and the kind of joy that comes from small, everyday moments. A wagging tail greeted us at the door, a playful nudge brought a smile, and his steady presence offered comfort in every moment.
When we lost Duffy in February 2003, our hearts were broken.
The memories we shared remain a constant source of happiness and gratitude. His life was chronicled in our book, Duffy: The Tale of a Terrier, a celebration of a dog who brought love, laughter, and adventure into our lives. Duffy was our first pet together as a couple, and he showed us the profound impact an animal can have on shaping a family, deepening a bond, and filling a home with love.
Duffy’s story reminds us that every adoption has the potential to change lives for both humans and animals.
The love we shared with him continues to guide us, inspire us, and remind us why Anderson Humane’s work matters. Every pet has a story, and every adoption is a chance to create a lifetime of memories.
Anderson Humane gave us the gift of Duffy, a bond that changed our lives and shaped the way we view love, loyalty, and adventure. That gift has never left us.
Ready to start your own rescue story?
Meet adoptable animals at Anderson Humane by visiting ahconnects.org/adopt, or help make the next 60 stories possible by donating in honor of our 60th Anniversary.
