MIDDLEBURY — Homeward Bound, Addison County’s Humane Society, has turned to Two Brothers Tavern in Middlebury for help in finding a permanent, loving home for two dogs — Atticus and Mandi —surrendered to the shelter in July. 
Homeward Bound Executive Director Jess Danyow explained that the two dogs came to Homeward Bound because one of their elderly owners died and the other was unable to care for them alone.
“Atticus has lost one eye to glaucoma and has a 50/50 chance of losing vision in his second eye as well; he receives two eye drop medications to help lower that risk,” Danyow said. “Mandi, who has been with Atticus since she was a puppy, serves as his ‘seeing eye dog’ and provides Atticus with a great deal of security. In honor of their strong bond, we are requiring that these two be adopted together.”
Two Brothers Tavern is using social media to introduce their customers to Mandi and Atticus and they’ve papered the restaurant with information about the duo as well.
Atticus is a 12 year-old, AKC Certified Golden Retriever, neutered male. He is a very affectionate, empathetic, grandfatherly dog who seeks human contact above all else. According to Atticus’s previous owner, the dog always seemed to know when something was bothering him and would try to provide comfort. Atticus is wonderful with other dogs, Danyow said, and will even lay down to let smaller dogs and puppies climb all over him in play.
Mandi is a 9 year-old, AKC Certified Duck Tolling Retriever, spayed female. She is an energetic, athletic, playful gal who will chase down tennis balls for as long as someone can throw them. She is very affectionate, and once attached to someone she will always want to be in their company.
Holmes Jacobs of Two Bothers Tavern has a soft spot for the situation.
“My brother (Beal) and I are tight. We own a business together. I understand how important it is to keep family together,” Jacobs said. “We are happy to be helping get the word out to our customers about Mandi and Atticus. We think these two deserve a very happy ending.”