Chance’s best friend says goodbye

For nearly a month Manuel Salazar came to work early almost every day. Why? So he could walk Chance, the dog that was shot on the Viejas Indian Reservation and left for dead.

After Chance spent time at the VCA Emergency Animal Hospital he was brought to the County Animal Shelter.

Salazar was at work at the County Carlsbad Animal Shelter when Chance was brought in. The dog, a retriever mix, was very quiet at first, but “the next day he perked up.”

Chance went home with his new forever family, the Cavanaughs, Wednesday.

“He is perfect for the soul,” said Salazar, 35, “He is fantastic at making people happy.”

Salazar and Chance developed their special connection during their regular 15-minute walks. “I came in early to work just to walk him,” said Salazar who has worked at the shelter for 18 months. “There were very few days I missed.”

That bond was evident during Chance’s goodbye from the shelter. Chance ran to his former caretaker the minute he saw him.

Surprisingly, the father of two does not have any dogs, but says he loves life and has always cared for people and animals. Previously Salazar worked at a Texas animal shelter for eight years.

Is he sad that Chance is now with his new family?

“Yes and no. We know not to get too attached,” said Salazar. “Goodbyes are sad but it’s a new beginning for him, which is fantastic.”