Happy Tail: Abandoned in a backyard, a Dalmatian becomes a beloved mascot

When Black Jack's guardians lost their home to foreclosure, they moved out and left the Dalmatian alone in the backyard.

A neighbor opened the gate and let Jack loose on the streets, where animal control officers eventually picked him up. At the shelter he became very sick with kennel cough, and his days were numbered.

Fortunately, Save a Spot Dalmatian Rescue in Turlock, CA, took him in and nursed him back to health.

Nathan and Teresa Pry saw Jack on Petfinder and went to meet him. The Prys work for Angels Camp (CA) Fire Department Station 21; Nathan is a captain and fire marshal and Teresa is a firefighter. They thought the 2-year-old Dalmatian would make the perfect spokesdog to help Nathan educate the public about fire prevention and safety.

Jack, now 3 and an official fire prevention and public education dog, "loves to ride in the fire engines, greet the public and participate in fire prevention duties," according to the Prys. He shows kids how to stop, drop and roll and get low and go.

"When children see Jack, the loud noises of sirens, bright flashing lights and people in uniform aren't so scary," the Prys write. "He is helping them understand that firefighters are here to help." An elementary-school student recently nominated Jack for a Kindness Hero award, which Jack received at a City Council meeting.

Off-duty, Jack lives with the Prys, their 3-year-old daughter and their dogs Belle and Josey. "Even though Jack has been through a lot," the Prys say, "he is the one of the most loving animals you will ever meet."