|
||
|
Bronko
Click here to see more videos of the HOPE Dogs!
Week 1 ║ Week 2 ║ Week 3 ║ Week 4 ║ Week 5 ║ Week 6 ║ Week 7 ║Week 8 ║ Week 9 Week 10 ║ Week 11 ║ Week 12 ║Week 13 ║ Week 14 ║ Week 15 ║ Week 16 Week 17 ║ Week 18 ║ Week 19 ║ Week 20 ║ Week 21 ║ Week 22 ADOPTED!!! New Pictures from Bronko's foster mom!
UPDATE 5-16-10
For information on adopting Bronko, please contact the HOPE Program by CLICKING HERE or calling 717-379-2511. You can complete an application online by clicking here.
Hercules Cocoa Chi Chi Todd Lucie Casey
Week 22
For information on adopting Bronko, please contact the HOPE Program by CLICKING HERE or calling 717-379-2511. You can complete an application online by clicking here.
Hercules Cocoa Chi Chi Todd Lucie Casey
Bronko spent a lot of time in the doggie yard this week. Although he plays well with all of the other members of his pack, Lucie is the apple of Bronko's eyes. "They've really become the best of friends." Bronko and Lucie love playing tug of war with a rope toy. Bronko will get the rope and hold it in his mouth, usually laying on his back while chewing it. Lucie will come up to him while he's growling and carrying on (Bronko's play noises are just that...play noises). She'll just reach into Bronko's mouth and take the rope. The two of them either play more tug-the-rope or Bronko will just let Lucie have it. When Lucie has the toy, however, she teases Bronko until he chases her around the yard for another good romp! "There has been steady improvement with Bronko. Every day his endurance increases. He runs a lot more and longer than he did when he first came into the program." His handler says that warm weather means more exercise for this pup! "Bronko would be an asset to any family. I really like this guy. He's mellow, loves attention and is friendly with everyone. Whoever decides to adopt Bronko will be very lucky to have him in their lives."
For information on adopting Bronko, please contact the HOPE Program by CLICKING HERE or calling 717-379-2511. You can complete an application online by clicking here.
Hercules Cocoa Chi Chi Lucie Casey
Bronko also attended the Pet Expo at the Tree of Life Lutheran Church in Linglestown last weekend. He was very curious about all of the new sights and smells that he encountered. Admittedly, Bronko was a bit exuberant at times, but he loved the pets that he got from his loving public and laying in the HOPE trainer's and volunteers' laps during the event. Bronko is a strong boy, who wants nothing but a loving family to accept his smiles into their life. He's made such an impact on everyone in the prison with his antics and personality. We only HOPE that this sweet boy can smile in his forever home soon!
For information on adopting Bronko, please contact the HOPE Program by CLICKING HERE or calling 717-379-2511. You can complete an application online by clicking here.
Hercules Cocoa Chi Chi Pumpkin Lucie Casey
Bronko has a new girlfriend and her name is Lucie. She and Bronko hit it off right away and they've been romping in the yard like they've known each other forever! Bronko loves being outside. He really enjoys rolling around and rubbing his back in the grass (and "chowing down" on it). All of the handlers in the program have worked with Bronko and he will listen to all of them as he goes through his training routines. "Bronko has come such a long way and he's really made me proud." Bronko has full run of the tier. Everyone just loves him! "Actually, Bronko is a ham. The more attention he gets the more he wants." He likes laying outside of his cell door and watching what's happening around him. His handler says that there is always someone calling for him. Bronko will look at them, but will stay at the door until his handler tells him to "go say hello." Then, Bronko will mosey up the tier to visit his admirers. Bronko had a lot of admirers at the Meet and Greet at Borders in Camp Hill on Saturday! Once again, he showed just how good he is with children. He was laying in his favorite "froggie" position and a little girl thought that he was laying there just for her to love. She laid her head on Bronko's back and quietly said "Doggie." Of course, Bronko rewarded her with a couple of his famous kisses. He also thought it was very nice of two ladies who came to pay him a call to sit on the floor so that he could sit in their laps! What a charmer! Bronko's handler isn't sure why it's taking so long for this pup to be adopted. "Everything happens for a reason and I'm sure the reason is so that Bronko gets a family that will love him as much as he will love them. Bronko is a gentle giant and he deserves a loving family. God knows, I love him!"
For information on adopting Bronko, please contact the HOPE Program by CLICKING HERE or calling 717-379-2511. You can complete an application online by clicking here.
Hercules Cocoa Chi Chi Pumpkin Lucie Casey
Bronko loves all of the attention he gets at the jail. Because of his long stint in the program, he has almost become one of the staff at the prison and he is absolutely adored. It's no surprise to see Bronko lounging outside his cell door waiting for someone to come and give him a belly rub. He had a great time in class this week testing out the new handlers. He had lots of fun trying to see when they meant business and when he could get away with a few of his tricks. Bronko brings so much joy to the cell block with his sweet personality and silly antics. Now, all he needs is a home of his own.
For information on adopting Bronko, please contact the HOPE Program by CLICKING HERE or calling 717-379-2511. You can complete an application online by clicking here.
Hercules Cocoa Chi Chi Pumpkin Lucie
Bronko is doing just fine. He had a grand time going out in the yard for some exercise this week. "When Bronko wants to, he can really move out!" One day, Bronko decided to chase a tractor outside of the fence and just followed it from one end of the yard to the other. Since Bronko found a new motivation for exercising, his handler let him have his fun. Of course, Bronko still loves to sniff out the wildlife during his romps in the yard. He found a new bunny's nest this week, but being the sweet soul that he is, he simply sniffed at it then went on his merry way to chase the tractor! When he's not chasing tractors or sniffing out bunnies, Bronko loves playing with Cocoa. The two of them together are quite a sight to be seen! His handler thinks that in another life, Bronko must have been a steer. He knows that dogs tend to eat grass when their tummies are upset, but Bronko likes to eat the grass just because it's there (as do the other dogs in the program). Bronko's handler says that it's really time for him to find a good home of his own. "Bronko is such a loveable dog...he's really laid back and is fun to be with. The family who adopts Bronko won't be doing him a favor, he will be doing them a favor because he will be the loyal companion and playmate that they've always wanted!" Fingers and paws crossed, Bronko!
For information on adopting Bronko, please contact the HOPE Program by CLICKING HERE or calling 717-379-2511. You can complete an application online by clicking here.
Hercules Cocoa Chi Chi Pumpkin Lucie
Bronko got to go outside a lot more this week. His handler is looking forward to working with him on his new agility training. Bronko already seems to enjoy going through the tunnel, and he has no trouble jumping, so his handler feels that he'll do a great job! "It will be fun for both of us." Bronko also has fun sniffing out the wildlife in the yard. He and his handler found a newly-dug rabbit's nest. Although Bronko was inquisitive, he left the nest alone. There also are some groundhogs living outside the block. Bronko knows where they are and has a new game of quietly going up to their hiding places to visit them. He hasn't actually met one of the groundhogs, but his handler is confident that if/when he does, he will just be as curious about them as he is about the rabbit's nest.
Bronko's handler says that he is the most "laid back" of the dogs currently in the program. But he loves getting attention, especially from the female volunteers from the HOPE program. When they come onto the block, all Bronko wants to do is be with them! This pup has been a star in the program for some time, but with all of the television coverage he's received recently, more people stop his handler and ask if he's the one they've seen on T.V. Bronko's handler confirms the fact, and tells them "and for five doggie bones, he'll give you his autograph." Kidding aside, his handler is so proud of Bronko's accomplishments. He also loves Bronko's experience with the little girl at Borders last week. In his handler's words..."There was this little one year old. She was standing in front of Bronko and she barely reached his head. The little girl hugged Bronko and in turn Bronko gave her a big kiss. If that didn't sell Bronko, I don't know what will." Here's to finding your true forever home, Bronko!
For information on adopting Bronko, please contact the HOPE Program by CLICKING HERE or calling 717-379-2511. You can complete an application online by clicking here.
Hercules Cocoa Chi Chi Pumpkin
The big yard is really a treat to Bronko. Luckily, the weather was cooperative so Bronko was able to go out a couple of times a day to romp, run and just walk around the space. When the weather didn't cooperate, Bronko's handler made sure that he had plenty of exercise walking and greeting his friends on the tier. All of the exercise has been great for this pup, because he's shed a couple of pounds! "Bronko is a really nice guy. He loves to be petted and when I have him on the block, everyone will give him all the attention he can handle. Bronko just sits there and takes it all in." His handler noticed that Bronko especially likes the upper level of the block because it seems he likes to look down on everything that's going on around him.
Bronko has more than accomplished his basic commands. His handler still has a lot of people reinforce his training, however, so that this pup will do his commands regardless of who is handling him. Oh, and between Bronko, his handler and the fencepost (or anyone who is reading this post)...Pumpkin is Bronko's girlfriend in the prison. He's a charmer! And, boy did Bronko show what a charmer he was at the St. Pitty's Day event at Borders in Camp Hill on Saturday! He couldn't get enough of the attention he received. He loved everyone he met, but he took a special interest in one very small girl. She was just his size, and since she lives with a big dog, she wasn't shy at all about giving Bronko kisses and pets. It was a mutual kissing fest, and they were adorable together! Bronko loved being an ambassador for the HOPE program on Saturday, and he thought that taking a snooze in front his cell door when he got back to the prison was just icing on the cake of a fabulous day!
Bronko's handler says that he's pretty sure that he's spoiled him, but in a good way. Bronko has learned his commands, how to be patient, and is just looking for the right family to let him know that he is safe and loved. His handler says that if a poll was taken on the block, the overwhelming opinion would be that Bronko has given more to the prison population than he has received during his time in the program.
For information on adopting Bronko, please contact the HOPE Program by CLICKING HERE or calling 717-379-2511. You can complete an application online by clicking here.
Hercules Cocoa Chi Chi Pumpkin
Bronko is a big flirt. When the news crew came to tape a story about the program, he just kept snuggling up to the reporter and laying down at her feet. He really knows how to work it. Now, he just needs someone to let him keep on showing that sweet, affectionate behavior that we've all come to know and love. He is more than ready for a home of his own.
Bronko has learned to get along well with all of the other dogs in the program. He doesn't like to play with all of them, but he always shows his good manners when passing by or training together. This week, he had playtime with Pumpkin, Hercules and Chi Chi and loved every minute of it out in the bright sunshine with his buddies. He and his handler have been spending a lot more time outdoors this week since the weather has been so accommodating. When Bronko comes in from his extended playtimes, he lays down in his favorite spot and zonks out for an afternoon nap...that sometimes stretches far into the evening.
Yesterday, Bronko and his handler were outside enjoying the morning sun when a volleyball from the neighboring yard made it's way over the fence. His handler tried to kick the ball back to the other yard, but misjudged the fence. Bronko made short work of the ball and thought it was so nice that the other fellas had thought to share a new toy with him!
For information on adopting Bronko, please contact the HOPE Program by CLICKING HERE or calling 717-379-2511. You can complete an application online by clicking here.
Hercules Cocoa Chi Chi Pumpkin
Bronko is doing so well that his handler thinks he should just keep him so
he can be the HOPE mascot on the block! He's kidding, of course, but Bronko
is such a great dog and so fun to be with that his handler would welcome him
as a permanent "cellie" if he could. The handler worked on introducing the
new kids to the "veteran" dogs in the program this week. Bronko is adjusting
to his new pack mates, and he's doing just fine in showing him his doggie
manners. As those of you who have been reading about Bronko know, he's been
on a diet. His handler keeps Bronko to his food regimen, and is really
looking forward to nice days so his pup can get more yard time to get some
exercise and burn off some more calories! Speaking of yard time...Bronko had
a bath one day this week. Since it happened to be a nice day outside, his
handler took him out to the yard to run and dry off. Bronko's handler
wouldn't have minded so much if he rolled around in the grass and got a
little dirty, but Bronko "decided to plunk down in the crushed stone in the
yard which is actually the same consistency of coal dust with the same
effect. "Boy, oh boy, Bronko really enjoyed himself, and I'm sure he also
enjoyed the [additional] bath I had to give him."
For information on adopting Bronko, please contact the HOPE Program by CLICKING HERE or calling 717-379-2511. You can complete an application online by clicking here.
Hercules Cocoa Chi Chi Pumpkin
Bronko has been doing great since returning to the prison. His handler reports that Bronko "told" him in his unique language that he would really like a nice home, but he would feel more comfortable in one where there aren't any cats. Bronko has been practicing all of his known commands and he's always ready and willing to learn new things...like nicely saying "hello" to folks without jumping on them! This pup loves his pets, and never tires of the attention that he receives. Bronko's handler is still amazed that he holds no animosity towards people after the abuse that he suffered as a pup. As he showed during his visit to Borders last week, Bronko loves everyone, and they love him! Bronko has become so used to having his paws cleaned, that as soon as his handler tells him "down," he turns over on his back with his four paws in the air. "It's really funny to see." When he returns to the cell for lights out, Bronko voluntarily goes to his crate and patiently waits for his handler to make their bed. Of course, once the bed is ready, Bronko is front and center to grab his spot! His handler admits that he may be biased, but he thinks that Bronko has come a long way in the last few weeks. We do too, Bronko! Keep being yourself, you big love muffin!
For information on adopting Bronko, please contact the HOPE Program by CLICKING HERE or calling 717-379-2511. You can complete an application online by clicking here.
Tess Marty Hercules Cocoa Radar Pumpkin
Bronko had quite a week. He went to what he thought was his forever home...for one day. As it turns out, Bronko was not a huge fan of the cat, despite having visited the home previously. In his defense, it takes much more than just a few hours to help any dog transition into a new environment. But, a parole violation is a parole violation so Bronko headed back to the jail to wait for a better match. As Bronko's handler said in one of his reports, patience is a virtue. On the positive side, Bronko showed his sweet spirit at the Meet & Greet at Borders in Camp Hill on Saturday. He did his handler proud at the event! Bronko loved sitting on the HOPE volunteers' laps and soaking up all of the attention that he got from the customers who came by to see him. He looked like he was smiling the entire time! Although some folks were a bit leery about his size at first, Bronko quickly showed them just what a mush he is when it comes to being petted and loved. He doled out kisses left and right. In fact, he seemed to especially like the little people in their strollers...they were just at his kissing level! So for now, Bronko is back at the prison making his "funny noises" as he tells his handler about his week and about his dream of finding his true forever home.
For information on adopting Bronko, please contact the HOPE Program by CLICKING HERE or calling 717-379-2511. You can complete an application online by clicking here.
Tess Marty Hercules Cocoa Radar
Bronko has been doing very well on his diet. It took him a little while to get used to his new fare, but he now cleans his bowl without "grumbling" and giving his handler "strange looks!" Bronko's handler is so proud of his pup's leash manners. Walking this big boy used to be quite a challenge, but as they say, "Patience is a Virtue," and Bronko "bless his soul has made a complete circle." The two of them can now walk to the yard without pulling on Bronko's part or sore muscles on his handler's part! Bronko continues to cooperate when his handler cleans his paws before entering their cell. He also knows knows that he can't get on the bed until his handler takes the mat off of it, and pulls down the covers! Bronko patiently waits in his carrier until his handler gets into bed, and then happily joins him. "Bronko's really cool. What a dog!"
For information on adopting Bronko, please contact the HOPE Program by CLICKING HERE or calling 717-379-2511. You can complete an application online by clicking here.
Bronko was put on diet last weekend. His handler sat back to watch Bronko's reaction to his new food. Let's just say that it was a learning curve. Bronko took a bite, chewed it once or twice and spit it out on the floor. He gave his handler a look of confusion. After about five minutes, Bronko bravely walked up to his new food again. He ate a full mouth-full, then looked at his handler as if to say "why are you doing this to me?" In just in a couple of days, however, Bronko learned to eat his new grub with no fuss and without giving his handler pining looks. "Good boy!" Bronko continues to do well on his leash! Although he still has his moments, for the most part, his handler says that he has a nice time taking him for a walk. Bronko's handler introduced him to a new toy in the play yard this week. It's a basketball-sized red ball that is made of hard plastic. When he realized that he couldn't eat the ball, Bronko opted instead to show his handler that he's a Pele in the making with his soccer skills! His handler says that he continues to love hearing the bed-time stories that Bronko tells him. He looks forward to the "neat noises" Bronko makes while he's being pet as the two of them nestle down for the night. "It really gives me great pleasure to see him enjoying himself so much. Bronko is a a very patient, smart and friendly dog. He's come a long way."
For information on adopting Bronko, please contact the HOPE Program by CLICKING HERE or calling 717-379-2511. You can complete an application online by clicking here.
"Bronko is really doing great." His handler worked with him this week to curb his enthusiasm when accepting treats. Bronko is much gentler now when he knows that he is receiving a reward for being a good boy. There is a big cat living outside the fence in the doggie yard. Whenever Bronko goes out for a potty break, he always has to check to see whether or not the feline is lurking about. His handler doesn't know what Bronko would do if he actually met up with the cat, but he does know that Bronko has taken quite an interest in it. This pup knows that he has to have his paws washed after being in the yard. At first he wasn't too keen on the idea, but now he patiently waits while his handler gets warm water on the wash cloth. In fact, by the time his handler comes back to him, Bronko is usually laying down with this back feet stretched out in anticipation of having clean paws again! Bronko also received a couple of "bird baths" this week, and really enjoyed the attention he received! "Bronko is a talker." He lays down with his handler and puts his big head on his handler's shoulder. When his handler's shoulder goes to sleep as a result, he asks Bronko to move, and inch-by-inch, the two of them get comfortable. Bronko really loves having his ears massaged and the space between his eyes rubbed. He loves nothing more than to be cuddled and pampered, and he makes really nice noises when having this quiet time with his buddy. Bronko is also very respectful of his handler's possessions. When left alone in their cell, he never touches anything except for the things that his handler leaves for Bronko to keep him occupied while he goes about his day. "Bronko is sure a pleasure to be with and to be around. He is really a good boy!"
For information on adopting Bronko, please contact the HOPE Program by CLICKING HERE or calling 717-379-2511. You can complete an application online by clicking here.
Bronko's handler reports that this bundle of love really likes running in the yard, but he'll come back to him when called to do so. Bronko has such a good disposition when it comes to his favorite pack-mates. Little Miss Penney (whose entire length isn't as long as Bronko's tail) was standing right next to Bronko one day. She looked at him, barked and gave him a little nip. Bronko turned around, but just ignored her. It was if he was thinking "What's up with that, Penney?" Bronko really likes sweet Penney and will miss her when she leaves for her forever home. Cocoa is also one of Bronko's favorite pals. She'll get Bronko to lay on his back, and he'll just let her nibble and lick him. "You can tell that both of them are really enjoying each other's company." Bronko's temperament and his love of being with other people extends to life in the prison as well. There is one inmate on the block that doesn't like dogs, but he will go out of his way to meet and pet Bronko. His handler says "I think that about says it all."
For information on adopting Bronko, please contact the HOPE Program by CLICKING HERE or calling 717-379-2511. You can complete an application online by clicking here.
Tess Marty Penney Denver Cocoa Marty
Bronko's handler reports that he's coming along very well. Bronko is not the mad man on the leash that he once was. He's still eager to get to the places he likes best, but his handler is patient and consistent and Bronko is learning that leash manners equals getting what he wants! His handler says that Bronko is really learning a lot and he's proud of him. Bronko will do his commands with or without treats. In fact, his handler has learned that Bronko responds to his training better without being distracted by treats. This big love muffin also loves his toys. Of course, being an exuberant pup, he tends to like to get the stuffing and squeaker out of his toy as soon as he can, but his handler says that with patience, Bronko will reward you by not eating up his play-things. Bronko loves to have his belly rubbed, and also loves to cuddle with his handler in his bed. Sometimes during the night, Bronko will stretch, which means that his handler almost winds up on the floor! Bronko then will happily go to his crate to catch some more sleep. Remember that Bronko was hesitant to shake hands? Well, now he'll do it from a stand, sit, or lay position! Way to go, Bronko! His handler says that "Bronko is one cool dog, and he's a real pleasure to train."
For information on adopting Bronko, please contact the HOPE Program by CLICKING HERE or calling 717-379-2511. You can complete an application online by clicking here.
Tess Marty Penney Denver Cocoa Marty
Bronko had another fun week at the big house. He and Cocoa have become best buddies and they love to romp and play in the doggie yard together. Bronko loves to play chase with her, but Cocoa (at half his size) corners much better than he does. Bronko found out just how true that was this week. He and Cocoa were playing their favorite game of tag and chase when Cocoa decided to show of her u-turn skills. She headed off in the other direction while Bronko headed straight into the fence. After he got up and shook off the embarrassment, he looked at the fence as if to stay "Where did you come from?" Everyone got a good laugh out of it and Bronko quickly got over his annoyance with the wayward fence and moved on to another super fun game of chase with his best pal, Cocoa.
For information on adopting Bronko, please contact the HOPE Program by CLICKING HERE or calling 717-379-2511. You can complete an application online by clicking here.
Tess Marty Penney Denver Cocoa Marty
If anyone is looking for an 80-pound snow plow, Bronko is your dog! His handler says that Bronko LOVES the snow. He was out in the doggie yard, put his head down under the fluffy white stuff and ran! When Bronko came up for air he had a funny look on his face like he did something wonderful! Another Kodak moment for the HOPE program! Those of you who have been reading about Bronko know that his handler likes to have his pup's paws spiffed up before going into their cell. Bronko not only has learned the drill, he seems to look forward to it. To his handler's dismay, however, no matter how many times he tried, Bronko wouldn't give him his paw to shake. Well, guess what...Bronko shook his handler's hand this week! "You can't imagine the joy it gave me to see Bronko show me that he trusts me completely." Bronko has gone from being a hard dog to walk, to one that his handler finds a real joy to take out and about. Bronko still pulls every now and again (especially to get to the play yard), but he's making progress day by day! Bronko also is a cuddler, and of course, his handler is happy to share some quiet time on his bed with his "lap dog"! Bronko puts his head on his handler's shoulder and makes funny noises, like he's trying to tell him about his day. What a sweetheart! His handler thinks that Bronko is really starting to reach his full potential in the program. He's very well liked by the staff members and other inmates and his handler thinks that he's just a pleasure to be around. Oh, and by the way, Bronko is now officially, 100% housebroken! Keep up the good work, and keep bringing joy to your handler, Bronko!
For information on adopting Bronko, please contact the HOPE Program by CLICKING HERE or calling 717-379-2511. You can complete an application online by clicking here.
Tess Marty Penney Denver Cocoa Marty
Bronko's handler is still amazed how sweet this boy is after being treated
the way he was in his early life. They had a couple of touchy moments this
past week over a rawhide bone and a toy, but after a few strokes on his head
and some gentle words, Bronko and his handler came to an understanding and
all is good. Bronko also has gotten much better on his leash. His handler
says that although it's still a work in progress, Bronko is much easier to
walk than when he entered the program just a couple of weeks ago!
For information on adopting Bronko, please contact the HOPE Program by CLICKING HERE or calling 717-379-2511. You can complete an application online by clicking here.
Tess Marty Penney Denver Cocoa Marty
Week 1
Bronko is an 80 pound lap dog. His handler says that Bronko loves nothing more than being snuggled and petted. He even has bed privileges already! Bronko is a big sweetheart and loves everyone. Despite his rough start to life, he is very trusting and easy going. His handlers have tested him in many different ways already and Bronko shows terrific manners every time. He will give up toys and bones when asked and his handlers can even take his food away without any worries. This boy is a gem and will be ready for a family of his own in no time at all!
For information on adopting Bronko, please contact the HOPE Program by CLICKING HERE or calling 717-379-2511. You can complete an application online by clicking here.
Tess Marty Penney Denver Cocoa Marty
UPDATE - 11/30/09
For information on adopting Bronko, please contact the HOPE Program by CLICKING HERE or calling 717-379-2511. You can complete an application online by clicking here.
Tess Marty Penney Champ Cocoa Marty
|
|
|
|
Hounds of Prison Education
|
|