By Velia Tarnoff Special to OnMilwaukee.com Published Mar 06, 2007 at 7:43 PM

OK, so you wouldn’t guess it by looking out the window today, but spring really is just around the corner.  Wouldn’t you love to share your many, upcoming runs, bike rides and Frisbee throws?   

This blog isn’t turning into a singles dating service pitch.  It’s turning into an “adopt-a-dog-from-the-Wisconsin-Humane-Society” pitch.

Phantom (pictured above) is waiting for you at the Humane Society (4500 W. Wisconsin Ave.).  He’s an 11-month-old, Smooth Coated Collie mix that will inspire you with his zest for life, gravity-defying aerobatics and spectacular vertical jump.  Seriously, this dog’s athletic prowess is impressive -- and his tennis-ball retrieval skills may convince you to get him started with agility sports competition.

Phantom’s energy could be daunting for some, but he’s perfect for an active person.  He’ll provide company during your workout and become your favorite personal trainer.  Plus, he loves belly rubs.

The adoption fee for Phantom and all dogs at the Wisconsin Humane Society includes neuter surgery, microchip identification, a health exam and initial vaccinations as well as one month free health insurance.

Velia Tarnoff Special to OnMilwaukee.com

Velia Tarnoff counts among the loves of her life her daughter, her husband, her friends, writing, developing theories, dancing, live music, Southern California, black coffee and red wine. She's happiest when she can put as many of those together as possible. WWith more than 20 years of experience as a radio reporter and public relations professional, Velia is a natural communicator who loves to hear stories, to share stories and to tell it like it is.

Velia earned her B.A. from the UW School of Journalism and is thankful for every moment she spent on that wonderfully wacky campus.

And, in the interest of full disclosure, Velia is the wife of OnMilwaukee.com Publisher Andy Tarnoff.