Orphans of the Storm® is still open just by appointment only, but you are now able to book appointments online directly on our website! You can still call 847-945-0235 to schedule an appointment as well. Don’t delay, there are so many sweet and snuggly dogs ready to meet you!
Ozzie the four-year-old Labrador Retriever/Hound mix is a smart, gentle boy who also has a playful streak. Being a retriever, he is excellent at playing fetch and especially loves tennis balls. He can catch the ball in midair and brings it right back to drop at your feet. He isn’t pushy about playing fetch, though–if you don’t throw it right away, he’s content to snuggle instead. But as soon as you pick up the ball again, he is ready to play!
Ozzie is very photogenic
Ozzie already has some good manners. When he comes to the gate at the entrance to the shelter’s walking trail, he sits nicely without being asked while he waits for you to open it. Ozzie is super snuggly and loves to lean against you while you pet him, especially if you’re scratching his favorite spot on his hip. He is an excellent walking companion and does great on the leash. Ozzie gets along well with other dogs and attends play group, so he could go to a home with or without another dog. Ozzie would also prefer an adult-only home. Come in soon to see if Ozzie is the pooch for you!
Ozzie enjoying his tennis ball and the shade
Mr. Brightside the two-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a serious chonk who will make you smile just by being in your presence. He loves being with people and has done great at offsite events where he had the opportunity to make lots of new friends. But his absolute favorite things are toys! Mr. Brightside heads straight to the toy bin before every walk and literally climbs inside, snuffling around for the perfect toy (or toys) to carry with him on the trail.
Mr. Brightside has the cutest wrinkly forehead
You might think Mr. Brightside would be distracted and want to play instead of walk, but having a toy in his mouth actually makes him a super easy walking buddy! He lumbers along and only stops occasionally to adjust how he’s holding his toy. He can sometimes destroy stuffed animal toys, so would do best with sturdier options in his new home. Mr. Brightside is looking for a home where he can be the only pet and get all of your love and attention. This big boy will give you plenty in return! Come in soon to meet Mr. Brightside!
Mr. Brightside proudly showing off his toy
Princess Peach the two-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is all about comfort—as a princess should be! She loves to create her own bed in the yard by digging in the dirt until she gets down to the cool part, then curls up and settles in. You may want to set aside a shady part of your garden where you won’t mind her digging! Princess Peach also likes to stretch out on cool concrete during hot afternoons and get belly rubs.
Princess Peach was very happy with her hole
When she isn’t lounging, Princess Peach is the perfect walking buddy. She often looks up at whoever is holding the other end of the leash and wags her tail to let you know she’s having a good time. Princess Peach is very snuggly and likes to give doggy kisses. And she doesn’t only like people—she’s happy to spend time with other dogs, too. She regularly participates in play group and has a long list of doggy friends, so she could go to a home with or without another dog. Schedule an appointment soon to meet Princess Peach!
Princess Peach will be a great #TongueOutTuesday participant
I also got a quick but affectionate hello from the not-yet-profiled Mama Mae.
With the weather getting warmer, now is a great time to adopt a dog from Orphans of the Storm® who will join you on nice walks and quality time in the yard!
Sugar the five-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is ready to be your companion for outdoor activities. She loves going for walks and prefers to lead the way by keeping a brisk pace, so she may do better with a harness. Sugar also likes to spend time in the yard, where she sometimes is interested in playing with toys but sometimes gets distracted by everything else going on around her. Sugar is as sweet as her name implies–she loves to cuddle and will give doggy hugs and kisses. She joined me on the bench and especially likes getting her sides and chest scratched.
Sugar is always smiling
Sugar is working on her doggy socialization skills in play group and has made a couple doggy friends, but for now she is looking to be the only pet in her new home. She also gets overexcited when she’s in the yard and sees another dog walk by, and she may try to jump over the fence–so if Sugar goes to a home with a fenced-in yard, she’ll need to be closely supervised or kept on a leash. Sugar already knows some commands, like “sit” and “paw,” and would be eager to learn more. She loves treats! Make an appointment at the shelter soon to meet Sugar!
Sugar enjoying the sunshine
Amber the one-year-old Shepherd mix is super smart and very treat-motivated. She already knows “sit,” sometimes comes when called, and will do an almost perfect heel with 100% attention on you if she thinks you have a treat. She’ll poke at your hands and pockets if she thinks you’re holding out on her! But when you show her you have no more treats, she’s happy to lead the way on walks and get snuggles. Amber is just barely out of puppyhood, so she still needs to learn that not everyone likes to get doggy hugs. But if you do like doggy hugs, Amber is your girl.
Amber has the happiest smile
Amber likes spending time in the yard and enjoys following her nose around to explore. She poked her nose in the toy bin and found a stuffed squeaky that she liked and carried around for a bit. Amber isn’t a fan of other dogs, so she’s looking for a home where she can be the only one. She loves people, though, and greeted everyone we passed during our walk with a wagging tail and a lick on the hand. If you’re looking for a young, active dog to keep you always entertained, come in soon to meet Amber!
Amber doing what she does best: doggy hugs
Fox the three-year-old Hound mix gets off to an energetic start when he first comes out of his kennel, but he slows down the longer he’s out and about. He is truly in his element on the trail–his nose leads the way, and he loves poking around in the bushes and taller grasses to find all of the most interesting smells. If you like visiting forest preserves and other outdoor areas, Fox would love to join you!
Fox is so handsome
Fox also understands the importance of cuddling and is happy to take a break from his exploring to get some pets. He especially likes getting his hips scratched and will start leaning towards whichever side you’re scratching. He joined me on the bench a few times and gave me some doggy kisses. Fox can be friends with pretty much anybody. He has a long list of doggy friends that he likes playing with during play group, so he could go to a home with another dog. He could also go to a home with cats and children 10 or older. If you’re looking for a family pooch, come by the shelter to meet Fox!
Fox eager to be on the trail
Stewie the four-year-old Catahoula Leopard Dog mix has the prettiest blue eyes that especially stand out against his white fur. He loves to be close to people and wants to greet everyone with a doggy hug, and he’ll happily continue to stand up on his hind legs while you scratch his neck and chest. Stewie gives lots of doggy kisses and snuffles around your face and ears, and either joined me on the bench and leaned against me or put his front paws in my lap when I sat down. He sometimes jumps up on you when he gets excited, but he settled down the longer we were out, so he’ll probably be mellower once he’s comfortable in his forever home.
Stewie about to jump up for a doggy hug
Stewie is a known fence-jumper, even if a person is in the yard with him, so he will need to be closely supervised or kept on a leash if he goes to a home with a fenced-in yard. Stewie enjoys participating in play group and has made several doggy friends, so he could go to a home with or without another dog–but he would probably do best with a dog that has the same energy level as him. If you’re looking for a sweet and playful guy, visit the shelter soon to meet Stewie!
We love our Orphans of the Storm® success stories! Sandy was adopted from the shelter last September, and this is what her new family has to share.
We just wanted to write & say thank you for all you do at your organization. We were rescued by Lucky (shy Sandy) in September and she has been such an incredible addition to our family. Our sweet older rescue dog is in his later years and we knew he needed a friend. We looked for months and the second we saw Lucky, we knew she was the one.
She was so scared when we first brought her home that we had to carry her outside to go potty and hand-feed her in her bed. Now, that same sweet dog is full of love for her furry brother and for her human brother and sister. She gives kisses all day, runs crazy laps through the yard, and has found her voice. She loves to snuggle and her favorite treat is carrots.
She used to be scared on walks and at the dog park, and now those are her favorite activities. She refuses to go anywhere without her furry brother–she won’t get into the car or go on walks without him. We are so truly Lucky.
Thank you so much. From Ross, Christine, Isla, Tres, Bubba & Lucky
Thank you for sharing Lucky’s story with us!
If you would like to have your own Orphans of the Storm® adoption success story here on the dog blog, please email meetthepooches@gmail.com.
Apologies for the long silence! It’s been a few months, but the pooches at Orphans of the Storm® are still eager to meet their new forever families.
This weekend is the last few days of Orphans of the Storm®’s Paws o’ Gold adoption event for St. Patrick’s Day. Through March 21st, if you adopt a senior animal (7+ years), or an animal that has been at the shelter longer than 6 months, ALL fees are sponsored, including vet fees (at Orphans’ partner vet only). Any adoption also receives a goodie bag to help get you and your new best friend started. For more information and to see the full list of eligible dogs and cats for this event, see the Facebook event page.
And here are some dogs who are younger and newer to Orphans of the Storm®, but ready for it to be their lucky day!
Cheerio the three-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix loves toys–and loves having lots of options for toys, so his future home will need to be well stocked! Cheerio took the lid off the toy bin all by himself and then climbed into the bin so he could check out every toy available before deciding on the ones he wanted to play with. Cheerio enjoys playing fetch, but his favorite is tug of war. Whenever I let go of the toy, he brought it right back and nudged me with it until I took it and started tugging again. Cheerio already knows “sit” and is very treat-motivated, so he’ll be a fast learner when it comes to new tricks.
Cheerio is the best playmate
Cheerio likes to lead the way on walks and moves at a quick pace. He has the potential to be a great jogging partner, because he doesn’t stop to sniff too often. When I sat down on the bench, though, Cheerio was happy to pause and joined me for some snuggles and lots of kisses. Cheerio has gone to off-site events and gets along with people of all ages, including children. He prefers the company of people rather than other animals, though, so he’s looking for a home where he can be the only pet. Come in soon to meet Cheerio!
Cheerio is a smiley boy
Bonus photo of Cheerio climbing inside the toy bin
Reina the five-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a little shy and skittish, but is coming out of her shell more every day. She has a very serious and regal look that matches her name perfectly. Reina did some exploring around the yard and likes to keep an eye on what’s happening around her or who is walking by. After she finished going around the yard, she came over to get some pets before waiting by the gate to let me know she was ready to go for a walk.
Reina has the pointiest ears!
Reina likes to lead the way on walks, but that’s mostly because she’s eager to get back to her kennel. Once settled in a home where she feels safe and comfortable, she’ll probably be much calmer on walks. She did take a few breaks with me, though, and happily joined me on the bench for some more cuddles and even gave me a couple gentle doggy kisses. Reina attends play group and was a little unsure during her first visit, but is making more dog friends and getting more comfortable. She prefers the company of gentler dogs like herself. This sweet girl is ready for a home to call her own, so make an appointment soon to meet her!
Reina the queen says, “I have no time for peasants.”
Bruno the two-year-old Great Dane/Pit Bull Terrier mix gets excited when it’s his turn to come out for a walk. He can be a little overenthusiastic for the first few seconds and likes to jump up as a greeting, but once he gets on the trail, he is actually extremely easy to walk. He goes at an easy pace and likes to stop and sniff. Bruno is very strong when he wants to be, though, so if he decides to go in a particular direction then that’s probably the direction you’re going to go! Bruno is looking for a home that has experience with large, strong breeds.
Bruno being an excellent walking companion
Bruno loves toys and is good at chasing after them, and sometimes good at returning them. He also loves just romping around in open space, so he would appreciate having a fenced yard to call his own where he can play and stretch his legs. Bruno occasionally attends play group but would do best as the only pet in his new home (he thinks cats are toys). He would also do best in a home with teenagers or just adults, since his size and strength might be too much for younger children. Bruno is a sweet, goofy boy looking for a home that understands him. If you think that’s you, make an appointment to come in and meet Bruno!
Bruno is a cutie
I also saw Bjork, who I haven’t spent much time with since I first wrote about her in October, but she was her same playful and affectionate self—lots of belly rubs, doggy kisses, and toy-chewing were involved!
Orphans of the Storm® has dogs of all sizes, colors, ages, and breeds. Schedule an appointment soon to find your new forever friend!
Blocky the ten-year-old Pekingese/Shih Tzu mix is super sweet and snuggly. The moment I knelt down next to him, he put his front paws in my lap and cuddled up next to me so I could pet him. He happily joined me on the bench later and enjoyed watching the world go by as I pet him some more. His fur is so soft, and his face is too cute!
Blocky standing proud
Blocky may be a senior, but those little legs can go faster than expected! Blocky loves to romp around the yard and lead the way on walks. He gets along with other dogs, so he could go to a home with or without another dog. Blocky is currently in a foster home, so you will need to email fosterdogadopt@orphansofthestorm.org to schedule a meet-and-greet if you’re interested in him.
Blocky will be a regular on his forever family’s couch
Chase the two-year-old Labrador Retriever/Shepherd mix arrived at the shelter very shy and scared, and wasn’t too interested in leaving his kennel. He didn’t mind being picked up and carried to a quieter area, though, and gained more confidence the longer he was out and about. Once he was willing to walk, he actually did well on the leash. Chase is a sweet boy who gave my hand some gentle licks while I scratched under his chin.
Chase doesn’t mind wearing a poofy scarf around his neck on cold days
Chase can (and will!) jump fences, so he needs to go to a home where he will be closely supervised if he’s off-leash in a yard. Chase has the potential to go to a home with other dogs and with children over 10. He’s currently in a foster home where he’s getting used to being a family pet and learning that he doesn’t have to be so nervous. If you’d like to meet Chase, please email fosterdogadopt@orphansofthestorm.org to schedule a meet-and-greet.
Chase doing a little more exploring
Bandit the four-year-old Mountain Cur mix is a sweet boy with some anxiety. He can be a little nervous with new people, but once he feels comfortable with you, he really likes to snuggle. Any time I knelt down to his level, he immediately sat right next to me (sometimes on my foot) so I could pet him. Bandit likes to lead the way on walks, but doesn’t pull on the leash.
Bandit likes to stop and sniff on his walks
Bandit occasionally participates in play group but usually keeps to himself, though he has made a couple doggy friends that he will play with. Bandit prefers the company of quiet, gentle adults, so he would do best in an adult-only home where he can be the only dog. Bandit also requires an intro class before being adopted, so his new family can learn more about how to understand Bandit’s personality. If you have a quiet home that could benefit from a snuggly companion, come in soon to meet Bandit!
Bandit will be your little shadow once he feels comfortable with you
Latin the two-year-old Shepherd mix loves to both give and receive affection. He gave me a doggy hug as soon as he came out of his kennel, and gave me a few more both when we were on our walk and when we were in the Enrichment Park. He also likes to tuck his chin and bury his face in your lap while you scratch his neck and ears. Latin joined me on the bench and covered me with lots of doggy kisses, too.
Latin smiling on the bench
Latin can pull a bit when he first comes out of his kennel, but he settles down into a nice walking companion when he’s on the trail. He sniffed at some toys and watched me throw them, but wasn’t too interested in playing fetch or chewing. Latin doesn’t really enjoy larger play groups, but he still has the potential to go to a home with another dog. Be sure to say hello to Latin on your next visit to the shelter!
Latin coming in for a doggy kiss
Raptor (Hudson) the eight-year-old American Bulldog mix is super playful. He loves all kinds of toys, but especially loves playing tug-of-war with a rope toy. Raptor has it down to an art form: he brings you the toy, pokes you with it until you take the other end, and then tugs! Whenever you let go, he repeats the process. If you happen to ignore him, he drops the toy at your feet and gives a bark or two to get your attention again. Raptor also fetches toys, but still prefers to play tug when he brings it back to you.
Raptor showing off his toy collection
Raptor is also a perfect leash-walking companion. Even though he’s a big boy and could potentially be strong, he doesn’t pull at all and goes at an easy pace. Raptor will gladly stand next to you while you scratch his back and hips. He occasionally attends play group and has made a couple doggy friends. Raptor could go to a home with teenage children. If you’re looking for a fun and lovable playmate, come in soon to meet Raptor!
Raptor is a handsome boy
Sheldon the five-year-old German Shepherd mix is a smart, active boy who likes to have things to do. These activities could include walks, playtime, food puzzles, learning new tricks–Sheldon is up for all of it! Sheldon walks nicely on the leash for the most part, though he can be strong when he wants to go in a certain direction. He does best when walking with a front-clip harness.
Sheldon is also affectionate. He gives the occasional doggy hug so you can scratch his sides, and he also leans against your legs when you sit down so you can pet him some more. Sheldon can bark and pull when he passes by other dogs on the leash, but he attends play group pretty much every day and has the potential to go to a home with another dog. He’s also looking for an adult-only home or home with teenage children, with people experienced with larger working breeds like his. If that sounds like you, be sure to say hello to Sheldon on your next visit to the shelter!
This will be a common view of Sheldon because he loves getting his hips scratched
Pope the three-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix can be a little unsure of new people, especially men, but turns into a total lovebug once he gets comfortable. Pope rested his head in my lap so I could scratch his ears, and would poke my hand with his nose whenever I stopped petting him to let me know I should continue. He leaned into me so much that he eventually flopped over for a belly rub, where he contentedly closed his eyes while I pet him.
Pope enjoying a chin scratch
Pope isn’t only about the cuddles, though–he also loves to play! He particularly likes tennis balls and is great at chasing after them, and can even catch them in the air after a bounce. Pope has started to attend play group and was nervous at first, but has made a couple doggy friends so far and will probably only gain more confidence the more times he attends. Pope is looking for a cat-free home, and could also go to a home with children over 10. Give Pope a chance to show you what a sweet, happy boy he can be!
Pope loves his belly rubs
I also saw Cocoa and Roger (who has since moved to a foster home).
The cooler fall weather means it’s time to bring a new, cuddly companion into your home! Make an appointment to visit Orphans of the Storm® soon and meet the cute and affectionate dogs available for adoption.
Smiley the three-year-old Pit Bull Terrier is a lovable low-rider. He often looks very serious, but when he does give a doggy smile, you can see why he got his name! You can’t help but smile back. Smiley is a very easy walking companion, in that he moves slowly in order to thoroughly sniff everything and generally doesn’t want to walk too far. He prefers roaming around the yard at his own pace.
Smiley has the cutest body shape, with his short legs and giant face
Smiley greets new people politely and especially enjoys getting his hips scratched. He wriggles around happily when you scratch the right spot. Smiley regularly attends play group and does well with other dogs, though not always with larger males like himself. He can actively play with the more rambunctious dogs, but gets along with calmer dogs too, so Smiley could go to a home with or without another dog. If you’re looking for a new companion to make you smile every day, come in soon to meet Smiley!
Smiley wasn’t feeling so smiley during our photoshoot
Gumball the two-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a big, active boy. He gets the zoomies when he’s first let off-leash in the yard and happily runs a few laps before settling down to a slower walk and sniffing around to explore. Gumball loves toys and likes to have a variety of toy options to choose from. He alternates between chasing after them when you throw them and carrying them in his mouth while he walks around.
Gumball has a great smile
Gumball can be very strong when he wants to be, so a front-clip harness would probably be your friend if you’re the one to bring him home. He walks nicely on the leash once he gets his initial energy out, though. Gumball was content to take breaks as we made our way around the trail so I could pet him, and he particularly enjoys getting his sides scratched. If you’re looking for an active playmate, be sure to say hello to Gumball on your next visit to the shelter!
Gumball following his nose
Noelle the nine-year-old Husky mix is a volunteer favorite because she is so mellow, sweet, and easy-going. She’s probably the easiest dog to walk at the shelter right now, and she loves going for walks–when she finishes her first loop of the trail, she often starts heading in the direction of a second loop instead of heading back to her kennel. Noelle also enjoys spending time off-leash in the yard and meanders at her own pace, but comes back to whichever person is with her to get some chin scratches.
Noelle is a happy girl
Noelle does great with other dogs and attends play group every day. When she wants to play with a certain dog, she pokes them with her front paw. Noelle could go to a home with or without another dog. She could also go to a home with older children who understand she’s a senior and won’t jump all over her or be too loud around her. Noelle has been getting treated for a couple medical issues, but is now healthy enough to go to her forever home. She’s just looking for an understanding and accommodating home. If you’ve been thinking about adopting a senior, come in soon to meet Noelle!
Noelle is getting her fluff back for winter
Otter the three-year-old Hound mix is very sweet and affectionate. When you scratch his back and hips, he turns his head around to lick your hands. He’s also a leaner and will lean against your legs as long as you’re petting him. Otter likes to jump up a lot as if he were going to give a doggy hug, but he doesn’t actually make contact. It’s more like (hop) “Hi!” (hop) “Here I am!” (hop) “Got anything for me?” Then he stops hopping when you pet him or give him a toy.
Otter is very attentive to his person
Speaking of toys, Otter loves them. He is excellent at playing fetch. Otter runs after the toy, picks it up, brings it back, chews it for a few seconds, drops it at your feet, and patiently waits for you to throw it again. Otter is also a good walking buddy. He walks at a brisk pace but doesn’t pull on the leash. He isn’t a fan of other dogs, though, so he will pull a bit if he sees another dog coming. Otter would probably do best as the only dog in his new home. If you’re looking for a dog who is equal parts active and snuggly, stop by the shelter soon to meet Otter!
Otter was ready for his close-up
Bjork the six-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a sweetheart. She gave me a doggy hug as soon as she came out of her kennel and was much more interested in snuggling than walking. She joined me on the bench whenever I sat down and, since the majority of my face was covered from my mask and my hat, Bjork decided to cover my neck in doggy kisses instead. She also loves belly rubs and will not-very-gracefully flop onto her back to request one.
Bjork likes toys and belly rubs simultaneously
Bjork can keep herself entertained with toys. She especially likes stuffed squeaky toys, and will either play fetch with you or with herself. Bjork walks great on the leash 99% of the time, but she will dart after squirrels and chipmunks so you want to make sure you’re holding onto her leash properly. Bjork can play with other rambunctious dogs in play group, but can be too much for calmer dogs. She could go to a family home with children over 10. If that sounds like you, be sure to say hello to Bjork on your next visit to the shelter!
Bjork has the cutest perky ears
Tesoro the four-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a sweet boy with a gentle expression. He picked up the first toy he saw and carried it with him as we made our way to the off-leash yard. He likes to sniff at toys and carry them around, but wasn’t too interested in playing fetch during this outing. Tesoro came over to me to get some pets and stood politely at my side. He also put his front paws on the bench next to me when I sat down and enjoyed getting chin and chest scratches.
Tesoro has such a sweet face
Tesoro walks at a slow, easy pace the majority of the time and likes to take his time sniffing along the ground, but he can be strong and pull when there’s a particular direction he wants to go. He enjoys roaming around the yard and following his nose. Tesoro prefers to be with calmer, mellower dogs in play group. Since he’s a big boy, Tesoro would do best in a home with children over 10. Stop by the shelter soon to see if Tesoro is the one for you!
Tesoro likes to stop and smell all the plants
Crash the seven-year-old Cardigan Welsh Corgi/Chihuahua mix is super cute and cuddly. She joined me on the bench as soon as I sat down and just wanted to be pet. When I stopped petting her, she poked my hand with her front paw a couple times to let me know I should continue. Crash didn’t get off the bench until I stood up, so we probably could have sat there together all afternoon.
Crash sticking out her tongue
Crash is a perfect leash-walking companion. She stayed right by my side the entire way around the trail and went at whichever pace I did. When passing other dogs, she usually ignores them if they ignore her but will pull and bark if the other dog is also pulling and barking. Crash would prefer to be the only dog in her new home. Even though she’s small, she has more than enough to offer her new family. Be sure to say hello to Crash on your next visit to the shelter!
Crash exploring the yard
Travis the five-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a big snuggler. He loves to get his back and hips scratched and turns his head around to lick your hands while you do so. He likes to give doggy hugs and will also sit at your feet while you scratch his chin and neck, with his tail wagging the entire time. With a little encouragement, Travis hopped up onto the bench next to me and poked my mask with his nose.
Travis has the best forehead wrinkles
Travis likes having different toy options, but he mostly pokes at them with his front paw and his nose and only chews on them a little bit. He walks nicely on the leash for the most part, though he will pull towards squirrels and chipmunks if they run across his path. Travis plays well with other dogs in play group, so he has the potential to go to a home with another dog. Come in soon to see if Travis is the pooch for you!
Thanks to play groups, we have a much better understanding of which dogs at Orphans of the Storm® get along with other dogs and which don’t. Right now, there are so many adoptable dogs who enjoy the company of other dogs. If you already have a pet at home and are looking to add another, here are just a few to consider–and there are plenty of others!
Bradshaw the seven-year-old Labrador Retriever mix is super sweet. He just wants to be loved, and has the most contented expression on his face whenever he gets pet. He particularly enjoys getting his sides and hips scratched, but anywhere really works for him! Bradshaw enjoys taking his time to explore around the yard, sniffing here and there before coming back to you to get more snuggles.
Bradshaw keeping an eye on things
Bradshaw is a very easy walking companion. He goes at a slow and steady pace and, since he’s older, he doesn’t need long walks. Bradshaw attends play group almost every day and enjoys the company of calm, mellow dogs like himself. This means he could go to a home with or without another dog. If you’ve been considering adding a sweet senior to your home, be sure to say hello to Bradshaw on your next visit to the shelter!
Bradshaw smiling while getting pet
Murdoch the one-year-old Border Collie mix is very easy-going. He’s a great walking companion who doesn’t pull at all on the leash and just stays one or two steps ahead of you. He occasionally stops to sniff around, but mostly trots along evenly. When Murdoch was in the off-leash yard, he poked a few toys with his nose but wasn’t too interested in chasing after them or playing fetch.
Murdoch showing off his blue eye and floofy tail
Murdoch started off by slowly exploring the yard, then got the zoomies and ran a couple laps with a happy doggy smile on his face. He’s a handsome, fluffy boy with one bright blue eye and he’ll definitely catch your attention as you walk through the kennels. Murdoch attends play group and likes being with other dogs, though other large males don’t always like him back. He could go to a home with or without another dog. If you’re looking for a go-with-the-flow kind of dog, come in soon to meet Murdoch!
Murdoch enjoying the trail
Roger the three-year-old Doberman Pinscher/Shepherd mix is a big, strong boy with a big heart to match. He is an excellent snuggling companion. Every time I sat down on a bench, Roger immediately stopped whatever he was doing and came over to lean against my legs and give me doggy kisses. He especially enjoys scratches on his sides, hips, and neck and will stand by you for as long as you keep petting him. Whenever we passed someone new on our walk, Roger gave them an enthused doggy hug and wanted to snuggle with them too.
Roger being a snuggle-bug
Roger likes to lead the way on walks and would probably do best with a front-clip harness to deter him from pulling. He did slow down the longer we were out on the trail, though. Roger regularly attends play group and gets along with both the calm, gentle dogs and the dogs who like to chase and play tag. He could go to a home with or without another dog. Visit the shelter soon to meet Roger!
Roger is so cute with his one floppy ear
I also spent some time with Eerie, Gazoo, and Oswald, but all three of them are shy little Chihuahuas who just wanted to be carried and cuddled rather than walk on their own, so I wasn’t able to get pictures–my hands were literally full!
If you’re looking for a dog who likes to play hard and then snuggle hard, Orphans of the Storm® has the right dogs for you!
Hunter the two-year-old Irish Wolfhound mix is very handsome. I’ve been wanting to walk him for a while, but he’s popular with all of the volunteers so usually someone else gets to him before I can! Even though Hunter is a big boy, he’s very gentle and even skittish sometimes with loud noises or sudden movements. (For example, when a small little fluffball barked at Hunter from its kennel, poor Hunter jumped and accidentally ran into a wheelbarrow.)
Hunter enjoying a hip scratch
Hunter is a great walking companion. Despite his size, he doesn’t pull on the leash or try to lead the way. He just goes at an easy pace right by your side. Hunter enjoyed exploring around the Enrichment Park and followed his nose to get all the smells. When he finished his tour of the yard, he came right to me so I could pet him. Hunter is looking to be the only dog in his new home. Come by the shelter soon to meet Hunter!
Hunter has the cutest wrinkles between his ears
Daffodil the one-year-old American Staffordshire Terrier mix is a sweet, snuggly girl. Every time I knelt down to her level, she came bounding over and cuddled up next to me while I pet her. Daffodil has the best, happiest doggy smile and will smile at you the entire time you’re petting her. She also likes to give doggy kisses. One of Daffodil’s favorite things, though, is water. She loves jumping into the puppy pool and lays right in the middle to cool off. Then she’ll come and snuggle with you some more!
Daffodil being smiley
Daffodil prefers hanging out in the yard rather than walking, and can sometimes resist going for a walk. If you start to jog for a few steps, though, the momentum gets her going and she walks well. Daffodil is looking for a home where she can be the only pet, and would probably do best with an adult-only home as well. Daffodil just moved to a foster home, so if you are interested in meeting her, please email fosterdogadopt@orphansofthestorm.org and they will set you up!
Daffodil has the right idea on a warm day
Meredith the two-year-old Catahoula Leopard Dog is a big fan of cuddling. She literally sits on your feet (not next to, but on) and looks up at you so you have no choice but to pet her. When I knelt down to her level, she came right over and leaned against me so I could pet her even more. She also likes to give doggy kisses. And when Meredith is happy, her entire body wags from side to side along with her tail.
The happy face you could come home to every day if you adopt Meredith!
Meredith loves playing with toys. She’ll happily carry one around in her mouth while she romps around the yard and plays a bit of fetch with herself. She’s also learning how to play fetch with people, but she doesn’t always bring the toy right back. Meredith likes to lead the way on walks and moves at a brisk pace, but doesn’t pull if you’re keeping up with her. Every single person we passed during our walk stopped and exclaimed over how pretty she is, so she’s sure to get compliments from her future neighbors. Be sure to say hello to Meredith on your next visit to the shelter!
Meredith taking a break from her toy
Charlie Daniels the five-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a happy, playful boy. When I came to get him from his kennel, he gave me a quiet “woof” to let me know he was ready to go and then gave me a doggy hug right away. Charlie Daniels is great at snuggling and sat next to me on the bench, where he gave me doggy kisses while I pet him. He particularly enjoys hip scratches. Charlie Daniels is a nice leash-walking companion overall, but can occasionally pull if there’s a particular direction he wants to go.
Charlie Daniels loved this squeaky cow
Charlie Daniels loves toys and especially loves playing fetch and tug-of-war. He brought a toy straight to me and stood in front of me until I took it. We played tug for a few seconds, then he dropped it so I could throw it for him. Rinse and repeat! Charlie Daniels could go to a home with or without another dog, and he could also go to a home with children. If you’re looking for a new furry family member, come in soon to meet Charlie Daniels!
Charlie Daniels trotting along
I also saw Emma (who basically fell asleep in my lap while I rubbed her belly) and Princess (who just wanted to spend the whole time snuggling).
If you’re looking for a new companion to get you out of the house and moving, Orphans of the Storm® has lots of dogs ready to be your new walking buddy!
Nyla the two-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is super sweet. She likes to give very gentle doggy kisses and lean against your legs so you can pet her. When you scratch her sides, she does a happy wiggle and looks up at you with a big doggy smile. Nyla is a perfect walking companion. She walks at an easy, steady pace and never pulls on the leash. She occasionally likes to pause and sniff around, but keeps moving for the most part.
Nyla is happiest with a toy
Nyla loves toys, especially soft squeaky toys. She happily chases after a toy when you throw it, and then chews on it to hear the squeaker. Nyla also likes when you play tug-of-war with her. Nyla attends play group almost every day and loves playing with the other dogs. She could go to a home with or without another dog, and could also be a family dog for children. Nyla has some food allergies and will need to follow a special diet. Be sure to say hello to Nyla on your next visit to the shelter!
Nyla spying on the laundry room
Ella the four-year-old Mastiff/Husky mix is very gentle, despite her large size. She likes to take her time meandering around the yard, stopping and sniffing and watching cars drive by. Ella sniffed at some of the toys in the yard, but wasn’t interested in playing with any of them on this particular outing. Ella has lots of fluff and will need regular brushing, and she politely stands still while her tufts of excess fur are brushed out.
Ella has one pretty blue eye and one pretty brown eye
Ella does very nicely on the leash. She walks just a few steps ahead and doesn’t pull at all. Where Ella really shines is in play group. She is a play group rockstar and can adapt to all play styles, from the gentle and dainty dogs to the rough and rowdy dogs. Ella has a long list of doggy friends. This means she could go to a home with or without another dog. If you’re looking for a big but gentle fluffball, come in soon to meet Ella!
Ella following her nose
Hero the six-year-old Australian Cattle Dog (Blue Heeler) mix is super affectionate. He gave me a doggy hug as soon as he came out of his kennel, as if we were already old friends. He also gave me some doggy kisses and wanted to snuggle every time I knelt down to his level. Hero likes toys and gently picks them up to carry them around the yard. He prefers to lead the way on walks and can occasionally pull when he wants to walk faster, but overall is a good walking buddy.
Hero romping in the Enrichment Park
Hero is looking for an experienced Cattle Dog owner who knows how to properly channel his energy and intelligence. He is food-motivated and eager to learn new tricks. Hero is not a fan of other dogs, so he is looking for a home where he can be your one-and-only. And since Cattle Dogs are known for herding anything, Hero would also do best in a home without young children. If that sounds like you, come in soon to meet Hero!
Hero is very attentive
Jace the three-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a big, handsome boy. He was very mellow in the yard and slowly followed his nose around as he explored. He didn’t even notice when I threw a toy in his direction! When I sat down on the bench, he immediately came over and sat at my feet so I could pet him. Jace also has a tickly spot on his neck that he especially likes to have scratched while he kicks his back leg.
Jace knows how to turn on the charm
Jace can sometimes pull a bit on the leash if there’s a particular direction he wants to go, but in general he was happy to stay by me. He climbed into an empty puppy pool and snuffled around, so maybe he would also enjoy splashing around a puppy pool with water in it. Jace regularly attends play group and could go to a home with or without another dog. Stop in soon to say hello to Jace!
Jace coming over for a snuggle
Princess the four-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is very sweet. She is a super easy walking companion–she stops when you stop, goes when you go, and keeps pace with you whether you’re walking faster or slower. Sometimes she walked so close to my side that I was worried about stepping on her paws! Even when she was off-leash in the Enrichment Park, Princess just followed me around and was rarely more than an arm’s length away.
Princess was a little concerned about the coming thunderstorm
Princess loves to get lots of pets and scratches. Whether it’s her back, chin, chest, or neck–she’s always happy to get attention. And she’ll gladly give you some doggy kisses in return. Princess enjoys treats and takes them gently. She poked a toy with her nose but wasn’t too interested in playing. Come by the shelter soon to meet Princess!
Princess has the sweetest eyes
I also saw Boon and Delilah (who loved splashing around in the puppy pool).
If you’re looking for a new furry family member to brighten your days, there are lots of dogs at Orphans of the Storm® right now eager to fill that role! (And also, the bright sun caused some serious shadows, so apologies for the darker photos.)
Garris the three-year-old Hound mix is super cuddly. He loves to give doggy hugs and will happily stand on his back legs for as long as you keep scratching his sides, neck, and ears. He also likes to give doggy kisses. Garris seems a little anxious at the shelter and can sometimes be a little mouthy when he gets wound up, like a puppy, but he’s still gentle about it.
Garris loves hugs
Garris enjoys playing with toys and happily chases them when you throw them, and then romps around the yard carrying one in his mouth. He can sometimes pull on the leash when he wants to go a certain direction, but he settles down as soon as you start petting him again. He literally melts into your lap! Garris gets along with other dogs, so he could go to a home with or without another dog. He could also go to a family with children over 10. If you’re looking for a sweet and snuggly companion, come in soon to meet Garris!
Garris smiling on his walk
Ace the three-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a happy boy. He likes to share his happiness with others by jumping up and giving enthusiastic doggy hugs. Even so, Ace knows when it’s time to behave and knows “sit” and maybe some other basic commands. He also takes treats very gently. Ace loves treats in general, whether it be a rawhide, a stuffed Kong, or a Pupsicle.
You can’t help but smile back when Ace smiles at you
Ace walks nicely on the leash, both when using a harness and when using a regular collar. He enjoys rolling on his back in the grass and wriggling around to hit the right spot. Ace also likes dipping his paws into the puppy pool and splashing around on hot days. He isn’t a big fan of other dogs, so he is looking to be the only dog in his future home. Ace recently moved to a foster home, so you will need to call the shelter to schedule an appointment to meet him.
Ace showing off his “sit” skills
Gunner the six-year-old Shepherd mix is a big, strong boy. He can throw his weight around when he wants to, but generally is pretty gentle and easy to handle. Gunner liked to sniff at the toys in the yard, but wasn’t interested in playing fetch on this particular outing. He mostly preferred following his nose around the yard and meandering at his own pace.
Gunner shining in the sun
Gunner kept to himself at the beginning of our time together, but by the end he was enjoying back and hip scratches and stood by my side to get more loving. Gunner likes to lead the way on walks and prefers going at a brisk pace. He participates in play group and has made some doggy friends that he enjoys romping with. This means he could go to a home with or without another dog. If you love big dogs, come in soon to meet Gunner!
Gunner enjoying yard time
Sophia the four-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is such a cutie. She wants to say hello to everyone she passes, human and dog alike. Although she pulls towards dogs when she passes them on walks, she never barks at them. Sophia particularly enjoys getting her chin scratched, but she’s happy to receive any attention. She sat at my feet to get some pets when I sat down on the bench and looked up at me with a happy doggy smile.
Sophia has the cutest pointy ears
Sophia walks nicely on the leash. She leads the way but never pulls. Sophia gets along with other dogs and attends play group. This means she could go to a home with or without another dog. Since she’s so gentle and sweet, she could also go to a home with children. One thing that her future family should know is that Sophia is capable of jumping fences, so she will always need to be supervised in the yard. If you’re ready to add a furry friend to your family, be sure to say hello to Sophia!
Sophia camouflaging in the woodchips
Delilah the two-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is super happy. Her tail is constantly wagging and she always looks like she has a smile on her face. Delilah loves toys and can keep herself occupied by playing fetch with herself, tossing a toy into the air and then jumping up to catch it. Delilah is also very smart. When I asked if she was ready to go for a walk, she went straight to where her leash was hanging on the fence and eagerly waited for me to clip it on.
Delilah says, “Put on a happy face!”
Delilah loves to snuggle. She will lean into your lap or put her front paws in your lap and cover your face with doggy kisses. She also gives very sweet doggy hugs. When on walks, she starts by wanting to lead the way and can pull a little, but she slows down into a nice walking pace after her initial excitement gets out of her system. Delilah gets along with other dogs and regularly attends play group. She could go to a home with or without another dog. Stop by the shelter soon to meet Delilah!
