Nine years ago, Kelly and Tony Stagliano made the move to Hershey just as their oldest child was starting kindergarten. Nearly a decade later, they can confidently say it’s the best neighborhood around, thanks to its close proximity to the schools, a vibrant downtown, and a community of wonderful neighbors. But three years ago, the downtown Hershey Stagliano home got just a little bit sweeter—and a lot fuzzier. 

     Enter Benji, a five-year-old rescue mixed breed who has completely stolen the hearts of Kelly, Tony, and their two kids, Alana (now in 9th grade) and Lucas (now in 7th grade). 

     Benji’s journey to his forever home was a true community effort. It all started with family friend and professional photographer Jacquie Dormer, who generously donates her time and talent to animal rescues to help pets get adopted. When the Staglianos mentioned to Jacquie that they were looking for a dog, she knew just who to call, sending over a photo of a pup with an irresistibly fuzzy face. A meet-and-greet was quickly arranged by Benji’s foster mom, Lindsay, and it was love at first sight. Alana and Lucas bonded with him instantly, and he officially became a Stagliano. Today, they celebrate his birthday every year on that very special "gotcha" day.

     Interestingly, Benji came with his name, and it fit him so perfectly that the family kept it. After the adoption, they even sat down together to watch the classic 1970s movie Benji—a fitting tribute to a clever, once-stray dog who found his happily ever after. 

     While he might not have a long list of complex tricks, Benji excels at what matters most: being the most loving dog imaginable. He can fetch small toys and sit politely for treats, but his true talent is being the ultimate snuggly lap dog. He also has a hilarious, unique habit of sleeping flat on his back, looking exactly like a fuzzy potato. 

     More than anything, Benji’s favorite people are his kids. He throws a massive celebration every single day when Alana and Lucas walk through the door from school. In fact, one of his absolute favorite activities is hopping into the car with Kelly or Tony to go pick them up from their after-school sports and activities. 

     When he isn't waiting on his favorite siblings, you can usually find him happily playing with his favorite squeaky toys or begging for his absolute favorite snack: peanut butter. Whenever the house is filled with that familiar squeaking sound and a very happy, peanut-butter-coated grin, the Staglianos know Benji is exactly where he belongs: happy, safe, and deeply loved.