LOXLEY — When Principal De Ann M. Ramey and her staff arrived at school last Thursday, they found a new “student” on their doorstep.

They’d love to keep him. He’s bright, playful and energetic.

Unfortunately, they can’t keep the three-month-old black and white male puppy dubbed “Loxley.”

“He has to go before Monday,” said Ramey with regret. “We have students coming (for an enrichment program) Monday, and he has to be gone.”

The puppy was either dumped at the school or found his way to the school last week. Either way, judging from the toys, water bowl and blanket in front of the office door, the wriggling puppy has found a way into the hearts of the staff.

“He’s just the cutest thing,” said Ramey, “and smart. He already knows how to sit. Unfortunately, we all have other pets and our husbands have said ‘no’ to another dog.”

If a home for “Loxley” isn’t found, he will have to go to an animal shelter, Ramey says.

“He can’t be here when the kids are here,” explained Ramey. “He might bite somebody.”

“Loxley” has already had a first vet visit.

“One of the teachers and the bookkeeper brought him to the vet,” said Ramey. “We had some big thunderstorms last Thursday and he was very frightened.”

She isn’t entirely sure, but Ramey said she believed that “Loxley” got a clean bill of health.

“The little guy just needs a good home,” said Ramey, giving the delighted pup a scratch behind the ears.