Pepper, an Australian cattle dog, has endless energy and is eager to learn and to please. He is about 1 year old and weighs 43 pounds. Pepper walks well on a leash, is a good car traveler and knows basic commands, such as sit, shake and come, but he will need additional training. This bright young dog likes to fetch and drops the ball at the thrower’s feet. He gets along well with children and other dogs. He has been neutered, vaccinated and given an identification microchip. Animal Rescue of Tracy is a nonprofit, all-volunteer rescue group that has pet adoption fairs for dogs and cats from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays and noon to 4 p.m. Sundays at the West Valley Mall. Through Dec. 31, all-black cats and kittens and those with tuxedo markings have reduced adoption fees — $52 for kittens and $25 for adults. For information: 642-4324 or www.animalrescuetracy.org.