Dog who survived bear attack finds adopted home

LAKE COUNTY, Fla. — When Deana Osenieks’ 7-year-old son saw Percival on the news, he knew that the Treeing Walker Coonhound would make the perfect addition to the family. Percival had been up for adoption through Lake County Animal Services after the hound was found in March badly injured due to a bear attack near the Ocala National Forest.

The Volusia County family -- two kids and three dogs in tow -- visited Percival at the Lake County Animal Services shelter in Tavares and held their breath that Percival would be theirs.

“I had to tell them if it’s meant to be, it’s meant to be,” Osenieks said.

Osenieks discovered that Percy would make an ideal best friend for the family’s dog, Shotgun, a Redbone Coonhound who got his name after suffering two bullet wounds. Coincidentally, Shotgun was a Lake County Animal Services shelter dog before being adopted by the Osenieks last year through a local rescue group.

“Percy has the same demeanor as Shotgun, real gentle and sweet, and we are really excited,” said Osenieks. “The kids adore the hounds because they are so cuddly and affectionate.”

Percival, along with Shotgun and the family’s two other dogs, will be treated to a carefree life on 2.5 acres in New Smyrna Beach, where there is plenty of room to roam and explore.

“I think he is going to have an awesome life,” said Osenieks. “He’s a good fit. He is a sweet dog.”

To adopt a dog like Percival, visit http://www.lakecountyfl.gov/adopt.

WFTV