After Being Returned, Lucont Is Still Waiting For His Forever Family In St. Mary’s County

CALIFORNIA, Md. — Every morning, Lucont waits. From inside his kennel at the St. Mary’s County Animal Adoption & Resource Center, the handsome AKC Catahoula Leopard Dog watches for familiar faces, especially one volunteer who has become his favorite. According to volunteers, the moment Lucont sees him approaching, his entire expression changes. His tail starts wagging, his eyes brighten, and for a few moments, the shelter fades away.

It’s a reminder that even after months without a permanent home, Lucont hasn’t stopped believing someone will come for him.

That hope is exactly why volunteers with the Friends of St. Mary’s County Animal Shelter are once again sharing his story.

A Second Chance Still Waiting

Lucont arrived at the shelter alongside one of his siblings. Although both dogs were initially adopted into separate homes, Lucont was returned to the shelter in late May through no fault of his own.

Now, he has become one of the shelter’s longest-term residents.

Despite the disappointment of returning to kennel life, volunteers say Lucont continues to greet each day with the same joyful enthusiasm that first won them over.

“Even after spending so long at the shelter, Lucont hasn’t lost his happy, goofy spirit,” the Friends of St. Mary’s County Animal Shelter wrote in a recent Facebook post.

Built For Adventure

Lucont is everything many people love about the Catahoula Leopard Dog breed — athletic, intelligent and full of energy.

The excitement starts the moment his kennel door opens.

“I have to brace myself because he’s ready to head straight to the yard!” a volunteer wrote. “Once he’s free, he’s absolutely beautiful to watch — running, exploring and soaking up every moment.”

Volunteers say Lucont especially enjoys watching other dogs through the fence and always hopes they’ll join him for playtime.

Whenever another dog appears on the opposite side of the fence, Lucont eagerly watches, hoping for a chance to run and play alongside a new friend.

His playful personality is matched by an affectionate one.

While he may not always realize just how big and strong he is, volunteers describe him as a sweet, loving dog whose biggest desire is simply spending time with people.

Ready To Learn, Ready For Home

Shelter staff say Lucont was previously reported to be crate-trained and may only need a refresher on housebreaking as he settles into a new home.

He’s highly food-motivated, eager to please and quick to learn, qualities volunteers believe will help him adjust quickly with consistency and patience.

For an active individual or family looking for an adventurous companion, Lucont could be an ideal match.

While Lucont’s energy is impossible to miss, volunteers say his biggest strength is the relationships he builds with people.

“Lucont forms deep bonds with his people,” the Facebook post reads. One volunteer takes him out nearly every day, and “his whole face lights up when he sees him coming.”

That connection, volunteers say, is exactly what Lucont hopes to find again with a family of his own.

A Smile Worth Saving

Volunteers encourage prospective adopters to watch the accompanying video, which captures the goofy, affectionate personality that has made Lucont a shelter favorite.

The Friends of St. Mary’s County Animal Shelter believe the right home is still out there.

“If you have strong arms, an active lifestyle and a big heart, come meet this gorgeous boy this weekend. He just might make you smile every single day.”

Animal Adoption & Resource Center
22975 FDR Blvd.
California, MD 20619