BRUNSWICK

A male beagle taken from an outdoor kennel at the Coastal Humane Society a week ago was returned Thursday afternoon.

Shadow, a year-old male beagle that went missing from the shelter Sept. 21 was returned Thursday, according to a news release issued by the Coastal Humane Society.

Shelter officials said the couple suspected of taking Shadow from the shelter came forward after seeing news coverage of the story.

“They were extremely apologetic,” said shelter manager Aggie Purinton, who received a call from the family Thursday. “They couldn’t afford the adoption fee, and in a moment of desperation and impulse, they decided to take the dog.” “It was very difficult for them to come forward,” Purinton said. “We appreciate their compliance and would like to protect their privacy. It is apparent that they love the dog and that this family took good care of Shadow while he was with them.”

The shelter stated in its release Tuesday, “We won’t ask questions if Shadow is returned,” and Jane Siviski, marketing and development coordinator for CHS, said Thursday after Shadow’s return that the shelter doesn’t plan to press charges. The focus was instead on getting the dog back. Deputy Chief Marc Hagan of the Brunswick Police Department said this morning no charges had been filed and likely won’t be if the shelter doesn’t press charges.

Lisa Smith, customer service manager at the shelter, said, “Our goal is to place as many animals as we can with loving families that can afford them. We understand that people with every kind of budget want to open their homes to animals, but it is also important to be conscious of the costs associated with the ongoing care of an animal.”

Shadow’s return would not have been possible without media coverage and the support of the community, according to CHS.

“Everything happened exactly as we’d hoped,” Smith said. “The dog was returned to CHS and is safe and healthy.”

Siviski said Shadow was returned around 5 p.m. and had been playing with his canine friend Keno, who was later adopted in a day of happy endings.

Of Shadow, “He’s as happy as a clam,” Siviski said, adding he didn’t act as if he had any idea anything was wrong and it seemed the people who had him had treated him very well.

Shadow was being treated for Lyme disease when he was taken, a condition that if untreated can be debilitating for dogs. Shadow will now continue to receive treatment for the condition and will return to the adoption floor when CHS veterinarian Dr. Mandie Wehr gives the medical clearance.

To see photos of Shadow’s return, and all of the animals up for adoption, visit the shelter’s website at www.coastalhumanesociety.org.

To make a donation to help animals find homes, visit the shelter’s website or mail donations to 30 Range Road, Brunswick, ME 04011.

dmoore@timesrecord.com