Go Go gets to go home

SANDUSKY — First, Sharayah Simco found a forever home for herself. Then, more recently, she found a "furever" home for her new companion. Simco, who moved to Sandusky earlier this year, adopted a hound mix named Go Go on Wednesday. While the Humane Society of Erie County does normally publicize adoptions, it went above and beyond to highlight a new connection formed between Simco and Go Go, who also goes by "GG." Here's why. Go Go stayed at the shelter for 189 days, translating to a six-plus-month stint at this Sandusky-based nonprofit. The society dedicates itself to caring for cats and dogs with hopes of adopting each one out. In the days and weeks beforehand, many people pushed for Go Go's adoption. For example, they passed along Go Go's photo and brief biography to others, characterizing her as an "absolute sweetheart." Because many had a personal stake in Go Go's journey, an adoption post published Wednesday and featuring her with Simco garnered nearly 600 positive reactions on the society's Facebook page just one full day later. Many people liked, commented and shared the post. Those and others familiarized themselves with Go Go at public events, shelter visits and through the Register's weekly adoption listing of animals. In fact, the society even used a photo of Go Go as its profile picture on Facebook. There's nothing wrong or abnormal with Go Go, which mystified people, especially society workers, about why she stayed at the shelter for so long. Depending on several factors, such as age and breed, a dog's stay at the shelter can vary. "Some are here for a few days, some for a few months. I'd say the average is (about) three to six weeks," society executive director Melissa Gundlach said. "Go Go was here for over six months. That is a long time." Everything involving Go Go, however, seemingly worked out in the end and for everyone's best interest, Simco explained. "I adopted her because I just felt a connection with her," Simco said. "I was looking online and just saw something in her eyes, and I knew I needed to meet her." Simco looks forward to spending many days, weeks and years with Go Go, promising she'll forever be loved. "When I met her (on Wednesday), I just had the biggest smile on my face," she said. "She was just so energetic but also so sweet and very attentive. I knew she needed a home, and I wanted to help give her one." Gundlach not only thanked Simco but also the society's "amazing staff" who cared for Go Go over the past few months. "We sure love a happy ending. That's why we do what we do," Gundlach said. Want to adopt? The Humane Society of Erie County, 1911 Superior St., Sandusky, offers animals for adoption. The shelter is open by appointment six days a week, Mondays through Saturdays, and call ahead before arriving. Normal adoption fees: • Cats under 1 year old and younger cost $100. • Cats over 1 year old cost $80. • Adoption fees for dogs/puppies vary. The fees cover various services, such as spaying and neutering. People can call 419-626-6220 or search for "Humane Society of Erie County Ohio" on Facebook for more information. Gundlach encourages anyone to at least consider adopting an animal. "Adoption saves two lives: the one you rescue, and the one waiting to step into that kennel space," Gundlach said. "Thank you to everyone who has rescued an animal. It's life-changing for them and for you."