Not every town has a mascot. And when they do, it’s usually the kind you expect an animal native to the area, or a character tied to the local high school football team. Mascots are intended to be chosen symbols that represent tradition, history, or pride.
But once in a while, a different kind of mascot comes along, one that no one planned for, no one voted on, but somehow the whole community chose. That’s exactly what happened in Blythewood. Our mascot isn’t a hawk or a bulldog. He’s a big, gentle, purple-spotted dog named Barney, and he found us, not the other way around.
Barney has even had a taste of public office, visiting Town Hall and serving as the Mayor’s “dog for a day” — a reminder that politics is always better with paws.
Barney’s story began like a mystery. He appeared on the streets, turning heads not just because of his size or his sweet face, but because of the unusual purple patches that stained his fur. No, it wasn’t magic; it turns out he’d been sprayed with something called Blu-Kote, a treatment for wounds that left him with an eye-catching hue. The citizens who first found him even tried giving him a good scrub, but the purple didn’t budge. In time, it will fade, and his coat will return to a brilliant white, but honestly, that purple has made him unforgettable.
After spending some time at the shelter, Barney’s story nearly ended too soon. Just a few weeks ago, he was placed on the euthanasia list, with only hours left. But Blythewood residents once again refused to let him go. A local family stepped in, pulled him from that list, and opened their home to foster him. They cared for him, kept him safe, and gave this gentle giant the chance to wait in comfort instead of a cage.
Now, thanks to their compassion, Barney has been given yet another chance at life. He’s waiting for someone to write his next chapter this time, a forever home where he’ll never have to face the risk of being unwanted again.
Why Barney is Special
Barney is about three years old, weighs 59 pounds (though he could stand to put on a little more), and is truly the definition of a gentle giant. Despite his size, he doesn’t bark much, doesn’t jump up on people, and is downright polite. He’s done well with other dogs his size, and he’s even been tested around cats no problems there.
Personality-wise, he’s affectionate, loyal, and thrives on human interaction. He loves being around people and has a playful, energetic side that makes him perfect for someone who enjoys long walks, runs, or backyard play sessions. He’s smart, eager to learn, and responds beautifully to consistent training.
In short: Barney is the kind of dog who will stick by your side and make every day brighter.
Who Barney Needs
Barney would do best with:
- An experienced dog owner, ideally someone familiar with larger breeds.
- A home with a fenced yard or space to run.
- A family who can spend real quality time with him daily — he loves attention.
- Households without very young children or small pets, unless the family has experience with careful introductions.
A Blythewood Dog, A Blythewood Home?
We’d love for Barney to stay in the Blythewood community — after all, he’s already something of a local celebrity, even visiting the mayor at Town Hall! But more than anything, Barney deserves a safe, loving forever home, whether that’s in Blythewood or beyond.
Barney is available for adoption or foster through Columbia Animal Services in Columbia, SC. He’s neuter-pending, microchipped, up to date on vaccines, and heartworm negative.
So if you’ve been waiting for a sign to adopt, consider this your moment. Barney has already survived the odds. Now he just needs a family that sees not just the purple, but the pure heart underneath it.
Come meet Barney. This gentle giant is ready to trade his foster family for a forever one.”
To make Barney part of your family, contact Columbia Animal Services at (803) 776-7387 and ask for Shelter ID: A301609b.
