It became official on October 28: Manny Salazar is not returning to Rockwall. Manny, who was profiled here at neighborsgo in July, was hired as a shelter attendant by the County of San Diego, California.

“I’m so excited that everything worked out,” Manny said via phone from southern California. “But it’s just now sinking in that I’m staying here.”

The neighborsgo profile was instrumental in landing the job, Manny reported. “My new supervisor read the article and said how impressed he was with it,” Manny said. “I really think that’s what got me the job.”

As a Rockwall Animal Control officer, Manny was one of the best friends a stray animal could have. He was also responsible for the creation of many community outreach programs, which the Rockwall Animal Services department has continued following his departure.

He had to return to his native southern California due to family considerations.

Manny reports that he’ll have his hands full at his new job. The shelter in northeast San Diego county is more than triple the size of its Rockwall counterpart. The California shelter has 120 dog kennels and a huge holding facility for cats, as well as dedicated rooms for rabbits and lizards. “I got the job today (October 28), and I can’t wait to get started,” Manny said.

Rockwall’s loss is San Diego’s gain. Manny admits the San Diego shelter has one definite advantage over Rockwall’s facility. “There’s a P.F. Chang’s a couple of blocks away,” Manny said. “I love it! I’m going to be there for lunch all the time!”