For Jake Mitchell, visiting the car shop is no longer just a routine workday. Since adopting Darcy, every day has turned into an adventure.
Jake, who specializes in differential mechanics, has always had a fondness for rescue dogs, and Darcy was no exception. “We’ve always adopted,” he said. “There are so many great dogs that need a home.”
After meeting Darcy several times, Jake knew she was the right fit.
With her unique merle coat and soulful eyes, Darcy quickly became more than just a pet; she became Jake’s best friend and the unofficial mascot of the shop.
“She’s always happy as long as she’s with her people,” Jake said. “She gets along great with other dogs and kids. She’s also a great snuggler and will sleep all day if you let her. She had a hard life before she came here, but you’d never know it.”
Due to her past experiences, Darcy suffers from separation anxiety. However, Jake works in a dog-friendly environment, allowing him to bring her to work easily—a decision that made all the difference.
“She adjusted right away,” he said. “She warmed up to everyone and all the dogs. Now she spends her days napping and playing with her ball, knowing I’m close by.”
Though not interacting with customers directly, Darcy is cherished by Jake’s coworkers who ensure she’s well-supplied with treats and affection.
Jake recognizes that adopting shelter dogs can pose challenges when introducing them to new homes or routines but believes the rewards outweigh these difficulties.
“Take your time when looking for your companion,” he advises. “The perfect fit will come along if you trust the process. Use meet and greets and, if you can, let the dog experience your home or work environment to see how they react.”
Now while Jake deals with gears and grease at work, Darcy snoozes nearby peacefully beside her forever family.



