Something strange is happening at Heart of RI. Volunteers arrive as fully functioning adults. Then they meet Beard, find the nearest person and ask:

“Have you met Beard yet?”

The answer always comes with a faraway look.

“Oh, I’ve met Beard.”

Beard is a handsome guy built like security at Bones & Honey but possessing the soul of an exceptionally loving weighted blanket. He is sweet, wonderful and absurdly lovable. Most shelter dogs need us to promote them.nBeard appears to be quietly recruiting witnesses.

We cannot confirm that he plays competitive chess, owns psychedelic pants or has an elaborate secret life after dark. We can confirm that he has completely enchanted everyone at the shelter. Some dogs make a big entrance. Beard simply looks at you, welcomes you into his mysterious little universe and leaves you wandering around asking strangers if they’ve met him.

Now we’re asking you: Have you met Beard yet? Be prepared to become part of the problem.