Radar, Local 2's weather dog, made his first on-air appearance on April 21, 2004, becoming an instant hit.

Radar, a Wheaten terrier mixed-breed adopted from the Houston Humane Society, was 4 months old when he joined KPRC Local 2.

Houstonians have a true stake in our mascot, since viewers helped decide his name. Radar was the overwhelming choice in a Click2Houston online poll with 62 percent of the vote. More than 5,800 people voted on the following name choices.

Radar: 3,644 votes, 62 percent
Sunny: 887 votes, 15 percent
Twister: 739 votes, 13 percent
Muggy: 512 votes, 9 percent
Windy: 89 votes, 2 percent

Appearing on Local 2 weather segments, Radar's happy-go-lucky disposition and love of the camera made him the perfect on-air mascot. He also helped teach Houstonians how to become the best pet owners they can be.

In February 2007, after nearly three years of working here at KPRC Local 2, Radar became the pet of a Local 2 employee who has cared for him throughout his time at the television station.

Radar will also now spend time each week at the Weather Museum, located at 5104 Caroline, meeting his many weather fans here in Houston, and encouraging people to learn more about the weather.

While he no longer appears daily in our newscasts, Radar continues to represent KPRC Local 2 and the Weather Museum at many festivals, fairs and school events.

And, of course, when Radar appears, our cameras will be there with him.

Radar Becomes "Best Dog On The Planet"

Like thousands of other "children," Radar was sent to doggie school to learn when he first arrived at KPRC.

After a 30-day stay at Rover Oaks Pet Resort, 2550 W. Bellfort, Radar graduated doggie kindergarten as the "best dog on the planet."

Trainer Jim Burwell said discipline was a big part of Radar's stay.

"The general method is positive reinforcement training, working dogs with food treats and then weaning them off food treats," Burwell said.

To learn commands like sit, stay and "go to your place," Radar first responded to a clicker, and then received a treat for training. Staff members were also taught how to handle Radar and his new tricks.

Radar Adopted From Humane Society

Radar came from the Houston Humane Society.

If you would like to adopt an animal, contact the Houston Humane Society at (713) 433-6421 or on the web at www.houstonhumane.org.

Check Out Radar's Slideshows

Radar In Pictures
Meet Local 2 Pets