Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Who Want to Play, Then Snuggle

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).

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Enjoy the Bright Autumn Sun

Orphans of the Storm® just welcomed in dozens of new dogs this week, so be sure to stop in over the weekend to meet them! But below are some dogs who have already been at the shelter for a few weeks and are hoping they won’t be overlooked.

Rocky the six-year-old American Staffordshire Terrier mix found himself at the shelter after his owner passed away. This means he has a lifetime of experience living in a home and is already housebroken. Since Rocky is a middle-aged gentleman, he is very mellow and well-behaved. He’s already gone to off-site events and enjoys getting attention from the new people he meets there.

Rocky has a very expressive face

Rocky is an excellent leash-walking companion. He walks at an easy pace and doesn’t pull at all. He happily came over to me to get some snuggles when I sat down on the bench. Rocky occasionally attends play group but can get overwhelmed with larger, boisterous groups, so he prefers the company of calmer dogs like himself. If you’re looking for an easy-going buddy, be sure to meet Rocky on your next visit to the shelter!

Rocky is a cute little guy

Maisie the nine-month-old Shepherd/Border Collie mix is definitely still a puppy. She has that playful, happy puppy energy that immediately puts a smile on your face. Maisie is super snuggly and loves to give doggy kisses. When we were in the off-leash run, she spent most of her time by my side so she could get lots of pets. Maisie also enjoys playing with toys, including both chasing and chewing.

Maisie is ready to cuddle

Maisie is athletic. She could potentially be a great running partner, because she led the entire way around the woodland preserve and only slowed to a walk when I couldn’t keep up anymore. Maisie is a play group regular and has a long list of doggy friends, so she could go to a home with or without another dog. She could also probably go home to a family with children. If you’re looking for a happy, playful pup, come in soon to meet Maisie!

Maisie taking a break from our run

Freyr the two-year-old Terrier mix is a total sweetheart. He loves to give doggy hugs and doggy kisses. When I knelt down to his level, he burrowed himself in my lap and rolled halfway over so I could give him a belly rub. As we were walking around the woodland preserve trail, he stopped and sat right in front of me so we could cuddle more. Freyr is great at walking on the leash.

Freyr is hoping for lots of toys in his new home

Freyr is a playful pooch. He loves toys and particularly enjoyed chewing on a tennis ball, though he also likes to rip his toys apart. As soon as I said it was time to go for a walk, Freyr dropped his tennis ball and came straight to me to get his leash put on. He’s a smart boy! Freyr attends play group and enjoys being with the other dogs, so he could go to a home with or without another dog. Come in soon to meet Freyr!

Freyr has one beautiful blue eye

I also saw Anya, Barney, Jupiter, Kira, Oreo, and Reno.

Play group this week included Anya, Barney, Cocoa, Dunkin, Freyr, Kira, Maisie, Nutella, Polly, Reno, and Wombat, as well as not-yet-profiled dogs Edith, Fannie, Phat, Red, Sasha, Sophie, and Tahini.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Visit the Enrichment Park

The Orphans of the Storm® website is still undergoing maintenance, so be sure to stop by the shelter to learn more about these new dogs and others who haven’t been added to the site yet.

This weekend was my first time in the Enrichment Park! I only took one new dog in this time (since Jack Russells are known for being good at agility) but also took in a few of my “regulars.” Next time, I will bring more treats! Scroll to the bottom of this post for some videos.

Milo the three-year-old Labrador Retriever/Bloodhound mix is a big, strong boy. He loves playing with toys, especially ones that squeak. The Hound part of him also enjoys getting the chance to sniff everything thoroughly. Milo is already housebroken and he gets along with children (though his size may intimidate some), so he’s ready and eager to join a family home.

Milo says, “Oo, is that toy for me?”

Milo is a sweet boy who likes getting attention and plenty of petting. Even though he’s strong, he walks well on the leash most of the time. Milo sniffed one dog politely through the fence when we were in the off-leash run, but then got bark-y around some other dogs when we were on our walk. He would prefer to be the only pet in his new home. Come in soon to meet Milo!

Milo doesn’t mind a little rain

Ducky the two-year-old Hound mix still acts like a puppy in that she is enthusiastic about everything and everyone. It isn’t just her tail that wags when she’s happy–it’s her entire body! Ducky is super snuggly and will give you as many doggy hugs and doggy kisses as you want. Any time I knelt down to her level, she would come bounding over and put her front paws right in my lap.

Ducky incoming!

Ducky is very playful. She enjoys chasing after toys, playing tug-of-war, and wrestling with other dogs. Ducky is dog-friendly and currently sharing a kennel with Paco (see below), and has had playdates with other dogs including Jack. So, she could go to a home with or without another dog. Ducky can pull on the leash a bit due to her enthusiasm, so she may need a little training. If you’re looking for a fun new playmate, come in soon to meet Ducky!

Ducky at a slower speed

Paco the four-year-old Hound/Mountain Cur mix is an easy-going and mellow guy. He walks nicely on the leash, even when he first comes out of his kennel. Paco enjoyed exploring the off-leash run on his own, but would come back to me every so often so I could pet him.

Paco is apparently concerned about Ducky’s photobomb

Paco gets along with other dogs, so he could go to a home with or without another dog. However, he isn’t such a fan of cats. Paco is currently sharing a kennel with Ducky (see above) and politely tolerates when she jumps on him or nibbles his ear. He also sniffed another dog on the other side of the fence and wagged his cute little tail. If you’re looking for a good walking buddy and someone to relax with afterwards, stop by soon to meet Paco!

But Paco also knows how to smile

Phantom the Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix is the cutest. Literally everyone we passed during our walk commented on his looks. He looks like a little piglet, and has a face that will automatically make you smile (which I unfortunately did not capture well in my photos). Phantom is surprisingly strong for his tiny size and will sometimes insist on taking you in the direction he wants to go.

Phantom following his nose

Phantom is a serious sniffer. He’s one of those dogs who not only sniffs, but also licks things to pick up even more information. That includes plants, toys, and people! Overall, he does a pretty good job walking on the leash. Phantom gets along with some dogs, but isn’t as fond of others. Be sure to say hello to Phantom on your next visit!

Phantom appreciates a good stretch

Dynamo the three-year-old American Staffordshire Terrier mix is friendly with pretty much everyone. When we were in the off-leash run, Dynamo put his front paws up on the bench next to where I was sitting so I could pet him. He greets the people he knows with enthusiastic doggy hugs.

Dynamo enjoys his walks

Dynamo likes walking at a quicker pace, but doesn’t pull on the leash at all. He’ll be a great walking companion. Dynamo gets along with other dogs and wants to say hello and play, unless they don’t like him first (for example, Dunkin doesn’t like other dogs and instigated a barking match). He’s a happy boy looking for a happy home to join. Stop in soon to meet Dynamo!

Dynamo is a handsome pooch

Charles the eight-year-old Jack (Parson) Russell Terrier mix is adorable. He is so small! But don’t be fooled by his diminutive size–terriers like him have plenty of smarts and spunk and will keep you active. Charles likes to romp around, but he also doesn’t mind being picked up and held. He also has a unique bark!

Charles making his way up and over the A-frame

Charles walks nicely on the leash and holds both his head and tail high. Charles explored the Enrichment Park and went over the A-frame with just a little bit of encouragement, though he wasn’t too sure about trying it a second time. This little guy has lots of love to offer. Say hello to Charles on your next visit to the shelter!

Charles’ little legs move fast

I also saw Belle (who rolled over at my feet for a belly rub), Big Boy (who climbed into my lap and gave me doggy kisses), Clarinet, Scotty, and Thunder.

Now for agility videos!

Nash absolutely loved having such a large space where he could run freely. He was far more interested in romping than being agile, but he did eventually make it over the hurdle. I stopped filming too soon and missed the part where he sat perfectly after he completed his jump! Nash is such a good boy.

Ross is an agile and athletic dog, which I learned from seeing him climb over a fence a couple months ago! But he was apparently feeling less inspired today and wouldn’t even look at the tunnel, let alone go through it. But he too made it over the hurdle a couple of times, and at different heights.

Barney was my star of the day. He sat nicely on the “starting block” and loved being in the tunnel, though he turned around halfway and came out the same way he went in. Barney is super smart, already knows commands, and just wants to please people. (To clarify at the end of the video, he does know how to high-five–but I mistakenly had a treat in my hand when I asked him to, so he understandably wanted the treat.)

As you can see, results varied but a good time was had by all!

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Looking to Celebrate Father’s Day with a New Family

Father’s Day is this Sunday. What better way to celebrate than by adding a fur-child to the family? The dogs at Orphans of the Storm® are happy to show you why you should pick one of them to come home with you.

Apollo the three-year-old American Staffordshire Terrier mix is a handsome boy. He can be strong and pull on the leash when he wants to, but most of the time he’s a good walking companion. Apollo is a friendly guy who likes being with people. After you meet him once, he’ll always greet you with a wagging tail (and maybe a doggy hug!) after that.

Apollo is always alert

Apollo would enjoy being in an active home where he can go on long walks and have playtime with toys. He has a bit of a prey drive and may try to chase wildlife while you’re outside. This also means he would do best as the only pet in his new home. If you’re a one-pet kind of person, come in soon to meet Apollo!

Apollo doesn’t mind a bit of rain (apologies for the blurriness though)

Marnie the five-year-old American English Coonhound mix is a sweet and gentle girl. She enjoyed meandering around the off-leash run, following her Hound nose wherever it led her. Whenever I knelt down to her level, she would come over and stand next to me to get some pets. Marnie has that sweet Hound expression that just makes you want to give her a hug!

Marnie says, “Can we PLEASE go play with that dog up ahead?”

Marnie loves other dogs. She was sharing her kennel with another dog who has since been adopted, and she wanted to run and catch up to every dog we saw on the woodland preserve trail. When she’s not trying to say hello to another dog, though, she walks very gently on the leash. Be sure to say hello to Marnie on your next visit to the shelter!

Marnie’s ears are extra floppy

Taz the two-year-old Terrier mix is super cute. He has ears that are maybe a size or two too big for his little body, and a curly tail. Taz likes romping around the off-leash run. Although he sniffed at some toys, he wasn’t too interested in playing fetch on this particular outing.

Taz is a precious pup

Taz also likes going for walks. He does nicely on the leash and didn’t pull at all (except for when it was time to go back in his kennel, then he pulled in the opposite direction–but that’s understandable!). Taz was happy to stop and take breaks every once in a while so I could pet him. This friendly little guy is ready to find his forever family. Come in soon to meet Taz!

Taz enjoys a thorough sniff through the grass

Karma the one-year-old German Shepherd mix is a sweetheart. Even though she’s barely out of puppyhood and an active working breed, she walks great on the leash and was either right by my side or just a few steps ahead of me. Karma likes to snuggle and will either lean her body against your legs or rest her head in your lap.

Karma is a pretty girl

Karma has moderate hip dysplasia, which is common in large breeds and treatable in a variety of ways. But right now, it isn’t slowing her down! Karma gets along with children. However, she isn’t a fan of other dogs and would do best as the only pet in her new home. Stop by soon to say hello to Karma!

Karma has plenty of fluff to go around

I also saw Brutus, Foxy, Howard, Jasmine, Jess, Lucy Locket, Naida, Nash, and Parker (who covered my face in kisses and refused to get out of my lap).

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Are Looking for Their Valentine

What better time to open your heart to a new love than Valentine’s Day? That’s why Orphans of the Storm® is having a Find the Love of Your Life event this Saturday, February 11 through Tuesday, February 14. Adoption fees will be waived for all dogs and cats six months and older. (Vet and vaccine fees still apply.) So stop in and feel the love for yourself!

Vanilla the two-year-old American Staffordshire Terrier mix has been waiting for a while now for the right person to come in and find her. She may seem like a bit of a handful when you walk by her kennel (she can be a little barky), but she is actually very easy to get along with. She just wants to grab your attention! She didn’t bark at all when we were out for our walk.

Vanilla is ready to be your walking partner

Vanilla and I headed straight for the woodland preserve. Vanilla walks nicely on the leash and barely pulled at all. Mostly she stayed by my side or just a little ahead of me and occasionally stopped to sniff. Vanilla loves getting loved and will stand next to you for as long as you’re petting her. Vanilla doesn’t like other dogs, so she would need to be the only pet in her new home. If you’re a one-dog type of person, come in soon to see if Vanilla is the one for you!

Vanilla says, “Hi there!”

Christi the eleven-year-old Shepherd/Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix is such a sweetheart. When she realized it was her turn to come outside, she jumped up like a puppy! Other than that initial burst of excitement, Christi was very mellow. She is super easy to walk on a leash and moves at a good walking pace.

Christi’s sweet face and wagging tail

Christi is very affectionate. She covered my face in doggy kisses at every opportunity she had. When I sat down on the bench or on the ground, she would sit right next to me and enjoy a nice scratch on the back. Christi also has the sweetest expression on her face all the time. Don’t just walk past Christi’s kennel because of her senior age. Give her a chance to show you how much love she has to offer!

Christi enjoying the sunshine

Fiona the five-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix was found hit by a car. The vets weren’t sure if she was going to make it, but we’re all very glad that she did! She has become a volunteer favorite. Now Fiona has made a full recovery and is ready to start her second chance at life with a loving family. Despite her traumatic past, Fiona is always happy and greets everybody with an enthusiastically wagging tail.

Fiona needed a drink after all her romping

Fiona loves to give doggy kisses. I walked her once in the fall before she was available for adoption and we barely got anywhere because she kept hopping in my lap and kissing my face. This time, she was more energetic and explored the off-leash run for a while before we took a lap around the woodland preserve. Fiona would do best as the only dog in her new home. Stop in soon to meet Fiona!

Fiona from back in the fall. We’re all dreaming of green leaves!

Holly the one-year-old Hound mix has plenty of energy, which is understandable for a dog as young as she is. We were off and running as soon as her leash was on. When we got to the off-leash run, Holly had a fun time racing the dog on the other side of the fence. She briefly joined me on the bench for a quick pat on the back before hopping off to do some exploring in the bushes.

Holly debating between joining me on the bench and racing the dog on the other side of the fence

Holly and I then took a walk/run around the woodland preserve. Holly would probably enjoy living with someone who has better endurance than I do! She was happy to lead the way around the trail and, being a Hound, stopped to sniff the trees and bushes every so often. Since Holly is still a puppy, she could probably use some training to learn some basic commands. If you’re looking for a fun-loving pup, come in soon to meet Holly!

Holly has a cute face

Riley the ten-month-old Labrador Retriever/Mountain Cur mix is very nervous at the shelter, but very sweet. He wasn’t too sure about coming out of his kennel at the beginning, and then wasn’t too sure about going back inside his kennel at the end, so he ended up being carried both ways. But he wasn’t squirmy or fidgety about getting picked up.

Riley didn’t know what to make of the snow flurries

Riley really starts to come out of his shell when he’s around other dogs. We spent some time with two smaller dogs and Riley was very good with his polite greetings. His tail even untucked and started wagging! When I sat down on the ground next to him after that, he put one paw in my lap and tentatively poked my nose with his nose. Riley will probably need a little extra TLC in his new home so he can learn that the world isn’t so scary. If you’d like to be the one to help Riley with that, come in soon to meet him!

Riley is ready to mingle! Especially with other dogs

I also saw Bella, Blush, the other Riley, Scotty, and Zoey.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Want to Ring in the New Year with You!

At the end of each year, I like to revisit some of Orphans of the Storm®’s dogs who have been waiting a little longer than most for their turn at a forever home. The list below is by no means complete, and these dogs have waited anywhere from a couple months to several years. I spent a few hours with them this week and we had a great time walking around the woodland preserve and hanging out in the off-leash run.

Zoey the five-year-old American Staffordshire Terrier mix knows her basic commands. She can sit, heel, drop, come, and probably some others I haven’t tried out myself yet. She also likes to play and is happiest when she has a toy with her. I’ve heard some people hypothesize that Zoey is part Husky (due to her coloring), which makes sense to me because she loves to run. One of Zoey’s endearing traits is that her teeth chatter when she’s excited.

Zoey

Bella the twelve-year-old Boxer mix is one of my favorites, and she has been for a long time. I take her out almost every week now. Bella is one of the biggest dogs at the shelter, but she’s very easy to walk. Since she’s older, she’ll let you know when she’s walked long enough and is ready to turn back. But she does enjoying spending time outside, even if it’s just laying in the yard. Bella isn’t a fan of other dogs and would need to be the only pet in her new home, but she loves people and will give you plenty of affection.

Bella

Lucy the fourteen-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix does not act her age at all, so don’t dismiss her as being a couch potato. Lucy walks at a quick pace (and will occasionally even run for a bit) and jumps on and off benches with ease. Lucy is a big snuggler and will plop herself into your lap and wriggle around excitedly while giving you lots of doggy kisses. She makes funny snuffling noises when she’s happy, and several volunteers refer to her as “the alien” because of her cute bulging eyes.

Lucy

John Boy the four-year-old Labrador Retriever mix is a great walking companion. He’ll jump up and down in excitement when he realizes it’s his turn to go out, but once the leash is on, he settles down and just enjoys being out and about. John Boy enjoys a good scratch on the back. He’ll sniff your face a bit and once he decides that you’re worthy, he’ll gladly give you doggy kisses. John Boy would do best in an adult-only home with experienced dog owners who can make sure John Boy lives up to his potential for being a great pet.

John Boy

Noah the two-year-old Hound mix is another great leash-walker. We took a nice stroll around the woodland preserve and stopped every once in a while for a pat on the back or scratch under the chin. Noah isn’t overly affectionate (in that he won’t cover your face with doggy kisses all the time like some other dogs would), but he will stay by your side and join you on the couch. Noah would prefer to be the only dog in an adult-only home.

Noah

Sammy the two-year-old Labrador Retriever mix loves to play tug-of-war, but she doesn’t really care about winning. Every time I let go of the toy, she would stop and look at me like, “Hey, that’s not how it works,” and then poke me with the end of the toy so I would grab it again. She knows commands like  “sit” and “shake” and can even catch treats in midair. Sammy is a big-time snuggler and will attempt to climb into your lap whenever she gets the opportunity.

Sammy

Some other long-timers who would like to make 2017 the year they find their forever home are:

• Aleck
• Barney
• Blush
• Coal
• Courage
• Diamond (watch her night out with volunteers)
• Honey Lamb (watch her night out with volunteers)
• O’Shea
• Puggie
• Roxy (watch her night out with volunteers)
• Scotty
• Thunder (watch his night out with volunteers)

The shelter is closed on New Year’s Day, but we hope to see you in 2017 and help you find your new best friend!

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Are Eager to Head Home

Orphans of the Storm® recently opened its Highland Park location, so we are having an open house on Saturday, October 22 from 10am-4pm! There will be a number of dogs and cats eager to meet you, and adoption fees will be waived if you adopt during the event. Click here for more details. But if you don’t find the furry friend you’re looking for at the Highland Park location, there will still be dozens more waiting to meet you at the shelter’s main location in Riverwoods.

Bob the eleven-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix doesn’t act like a senior dog, so don’t get turned off by his age. He’s a sweet boy who loves being with people and also loves going for walks. When we were in the off-leash run, Bob alternated between sniffing in the bushes and snuggling with me. He gave me a couple doggy kisses, too.

Bob romping in the run

Bob really perked up when we went to the woodland preserve. You can tell when a dog is really in his element, and that was Bob on the trail. He walked at the perfect pace and always had his head up, so he looked like he was prancing. Bob would do best as the only dog in his new home. If you’re looking for a great walking companion and a lovable senior, come in soon to meet Bob!

Bob says, “Whatcha got there?”

Tyson the two-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix is a fun boy. I first met him last week when he was out with another volunteer, and Tyson hopped up on the bench next to me and covered my face in doggy kisses as if we were old friends. When I took Tyson out myself this week, he was happy to join me on the bench again but didn’t stay for long because he was eager to romp around.

Tyson is always ready to cuddle

Tyson was found as a stray, but must have been with a person at some point because he sat when I asked him to, and then immediately stuck out his paw to shake without any prompting. He’s an athletic and energetic dog who would make a good running partner, based on how we made our way around the woodland trail. Stop in soon to see if Tyson is the one for you!

Tyson has such a sweet (big) face

Shaylon the three-year-old Foxhound/Beagle mix is extremely affectionate. When we got to the woodland trail, I expected Shaylon to act like every other Hound and just follow his nose. Instead, all he wanted to do was cuddle! When I knelt down next to him to take his picture, he climbed right into my lap. When I sat down on a bench, he hopped up next to me and put his front paws on my legs.

Shaylon sniffing in the woodland preserve

Shaylon even tried to stop me from walking by standing on my foot! He also had no issues with me picking him up. We eventually got into a good walking rhythm and Shaylon did well on the leash. He barked a bit when he first got out of his kennel (and he has that signature Hound howl), but didn’t make a peep after that. If you’re looking for a cuddle buddy, come in soon to meet Shaylon!

Shaylon being a lapdog

Minnie the four-year-old Shepherd mix is super sweet and friendly. When I first came to her kennel she was looking a little sad, but when she realized it was her turn to come out, her tail slowly started wagging and eventually she was wriggling all over. She immediately gave me a doggy hug once she had the leash on and continued to want to cuddle the entire time we were out.

Here comes Minnie!

Minnie is enthusiastic and will basically launch herself into your lap whenever she gets the opportunity. Whether I was kneeling on the ground or sitting on the bench, Minnie came running over and tried her best to curl up next to me. Minnie walked nicely on the leash when we went around the woodland trail and would often look up to check in with me. Be sure to say hi to Minnie on your next visit to the shelter!

Minne about to join me on the bench

Andy the two-year-old Bloodhound/Labrador Retriever mix (not to be confused with the other Andy) is a big, strong boy who is also a big sweetheart. One of Andy’s favorite things is tennis balls. He will happily chase one down if you throw it, but then he’ll just carry it around in his mouth and chew it. He’ll also occasionally drop it and kick it around with his front paws, which is adorable and also convenient in that he can play fetch without a person! Andy enjoys getting plenty of attention and will gladly stay by your side as long as you’re petting him.

Andy enjoying his tennis ball

Andy loved his tennis ball so much that he carried it all the way around the woodland preserve. He was even about to bring it back to his kennel with him, but dropped it just outside the door. Andy, being a Bloodhound, loved being in the woods and walked at a quick pace–so quick that even though it was a walk for him, it was a jog for me. If you’re looking for an active playmate, stop in soon to meet Andy!

Andy is so handsome

I also saw Bella, Candice, Diamond, Lucy, the other Lucy, and Snuffles.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Take a Woodland Walk

It was a busy day at Orphans of the Storm®, so that meant more walks around the woodland preserve trail when the off-leash runs were occupied. There are lots of good walking buddies at the shelter right now who have nice leash manners!

Max the four-year-old Shepherd mix is a big, big boy–or, more accurately, he’s a gentle giant. Max was nice and calm while he got his leash put on, and gave a quick tail wag before we headed off on our walk. Max is a very handsome boy, so between his size and his coloring, he’ll get lots of looks and attention when his future family walks him around the neighborhood!

Handsome Max

Max likes to walk at a quick pace, but doesn’t pull on the leash. He occasionally stopped and sniffed, but mostly just followed the trail with his head held high. We stopped at one of the benches towards the end and Max enjoyed getting a good scratch on the back. Max gets along with other dogs and is currently sharing his kennel, so he could go to a home with or without another dog. Stop in soon to see if Max is the pooch for you!

Max smiling on his walk

Ramsey the three-year-old Hound mix came from a family who could no longer care for him. This means he already has a lifetime of experience being a family dog and probably already knows some basic commands. We first went to the off-leash run, where Ramsey showed off his cuddling expertise when he joined me on the bench, put his paw in my lap, and gave me some doggy kisses.

Ramsey is always up for cuddling

Ramsey and I then hit the trail. Ramsey is great at walking on the leash and either stayed right by my side or just a couple steps ahead of me. He would sometimes look up at me as we walked, which is a good sign that he’ll pay attention to his new family’s instructions. Ramsey would do best in a home with adults and/or teenagers. If that description fits you, be sure to say hi to Ramsey!

Ramsey says, “Ready or not, here I come!”

Lola the one-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix is a little cutie who can also be a little bit of a handful at first, but calms down considerably after a couple minutes. She wanted to play tug-of-war with the leash when she first got out of the kennel, but once we got to the woodland trail she started walking nicely. She has a cute, happy face and pretty brindle fur.

Lola stopping for a quick drink

Lola enjoyed sniffing and exploring the different plants along the trail. At the end of our walk, Lola stretched out in a shady spot of grass to cool off and relax. I was able to give her a quick belly rub then. Lola is not a fan of other dogs and got pretty distracted by them when we passed others on our walk, so she should be the only dog in her future home. If you’re a one-dog type of person, come in soon to meet Lola!

Lola being a good walking companion

Josh the five-year-old American Staffordshire Terrier mix is such a good boy! Another volunteer was already out with him and Josh greeted me with an enthusiastic tail wag when I took the leash. Josh walks super nicely on the leash and didn’t pull at all until the very end of our walk, when I think he was ready to go back inside to get a drink and enjoy the air conditioning.

Josh’s sweet face

Josh hopped up on the bench next to me when we took a break halfway around the trail. He sat when I asked him to, though that may have just been a coincidence. I then asked him to “shake” and picked up his paw, which he had no problems with. When it was time to get his portrait taken for the website, he calmly stood next to me while I tied a bandana around his neck and then posed for the camera with a cute head tilt. He also loves treats and takes them very gently from your hand. Be sure to say hi to Josh on your next visit to the shelter!

Josh made sure to stop and smell the flowers

Carlos the five-year-old Black and Tan Coonhound mix is a friendly boy with plenty of energy. He was jumping up and down when he saw it was his turn to come out and quickly led the way to the off-leash run. There was a much smaller dog in the run next to us. Carlos politely sniffed it through the fence and went back multiple times to say hello again. His tail was always wagging and he didn’t bark at all.

Carlos with his wagging tail

Carlos absolutely loves walks. When I said, “Do you want to go for a walk?”, he immediately perked up and jumped up to put his front paws on me, saying, “Yes, please please please!” Carlos, like some of the other Hounds I’ve walked, was in his element in the woodland preserve. You can really tell that he was bred to be in that environment. We ran all the way around the trail, and Carlos either had his nose to the ground or high in the air. If you’re looking for an active companion, come in soon to meet Carlos!

Carlos says, “Is it walk time yet?”

I also saw Aleck, Merlin, and O’Shea.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs in the Dog Days of Summer

There are still plenty of days left in the summer, and plenty of dogs at Orphans of the Storm® eager to spend them with you!

Brock the six-year-old Shepherd mix and Susana the five-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix came in together after their owner could no longer care for them. If possible, they would like to go to their new home together. I actually had no idea that they came from the same home until after I had walked them, but it made perfect sense because I kept thinking to myself, “Wow, they get along so nicely!”

Brock following his nose

Brock and Susana are both mellow dogs. They were happy to come outside, but still walked nicely on the leash without much pulling. We cut through the cat wing on our way outside, and Susana didn’t pay any attention to the cats, while Brock sniffed at a couple with a wagging tail.

Susana coming over to cuddle

When we got to the off-leash run, Brock and Susana spent most of their time exploring. They started in the far corner and slowly but surely made their way all the way around, being sure to investigate behind the bushes too. They stayed close together and even stopped to get a drink at the water bowl at the same time.

Brock investigating under the bench

Susana was the first one to come over and get some pets from me. She enjoyed a good scratch under the chin and on her hips. Brock then started to warm up to me too, and he liked getting his back scratched the most. If you’ve been considering the idea of two new additions to your family, come in soon to meet the calm and sweet bonded pair of Brock and Susana!

Susana says, “What’s that over there?”

Mookie the three-year-old American Staffordshire Terrier mix is a big boy, but don’t let that deter you! He is much calmer than you might think. Although he could certainly throw his weight around if he wanted to, he walks pretty well on the leash and didn’t pull much at all. He has a big, lovable head with a wrinkly face you just want to squish!

Mookie enjoying the sunshine

Mookie mostly meandered around the off-leash run, following his nose. I tossed a tennis ball a couple times to see if he wanted to play fetch, but he would just look at it and then look at me. Whenever I knelt down, he would come over so I could pet him. Stop in soon to say hello to Mookie!

Mookie’s big head

E-Gray the four-year-old Hound mix is a sweet boy who can be a little nervous and shy when he first comes out of his kennel, but warms up after a few minutes. He walked nicely on the leash and stayed pretty close to my side while we made our way to the off-leash run.

E-Gray not so sure about the situation

E-Gray gets along with other dogs. He was sharing his kennel with another dog who has since been adopted, and politely sniffed the dogs who were on the other side of the fence in the run. E-Gray eventually felt comfortable enough to give me a few quick doggy kisses while I was petting him. Come in soon to meet E-Gray!

E-Gray wondering what I’m doing

Emmett the ten-month-old Labrador Retriever mix has lots (and I do mean lots!) of puppy energy still. As soon as he was on the leash, we were off and running. Emmett has that cute puppy quality of getting easily distracted. There was a lot of, “Oo, a person! Oo, a ball! Oo, a rope! Oo, wait, back to the ball!”, which is entertaining to watch. Emmett does love his toys.

Emmett says, “Whatcha got for me there?”

Emmett would be great for an active family that likes to go on walks or runs. We ran all the way around the woodland preserve trail, though Emmett was smart and stopped for a break at each water bowl. He’s a very friendly guy who likes to give doggy hugs and is always happy. If you’re looking for a fun-loving pup, stop by soon to meet Emmett!

Emmett taking a break in the shade

I also saw Aleck, Blush, and Thunder. It’s been a while since I’ve walked Thunder, and I was happily reminded what a wonderful dog he is! He walked nicely on the leash, joined me for some cuddles and kisses while we sat on the bench, and always had a wagging tail. He doesn’t like other dogs, but if you’re fine with a one-dog household then please consider Thunder!

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Ready to Clear the Shelter

If you’ve been wondering whether this summer is the right time to adopt a pet, the answer is yes! For the second year in a row, Orphans of the Storm® is participating in the national Clear the Shelters event on Saturday, July 23. Over 100 animals were adopted from Orphans of the Storm® at the event last year, and we’re hoping for even higher adoption numbers this year!

But, if any of the dogs profiled this week (or listed on the Dog Profiles page) have already caught your eye, don’t delay! The shelter is open until 8 p.m. on Thursdays and until 5 p.m. every other day of the week.

Pippa the one-year-old Australian Cattle Dog mix is a true athlete. You’ll see her jumping up and down inside her kennel, and she even does that every once in a while when she’s on a walk! She’s a perfect candidate for agility. Pippa also seems to love water and was splashing her front legs around in the water bowl. So, if you have a pool or live near water, Pippa would fit right in with your activities!

Pippa will happily share her personal space

Pippa was actually pretty calm when we were in the off-leash run. Every time I sat down on the bench, Pippa hopped up next to me and gave me doggy kisses. She would then sit or lay next to me while I pet her. She enjoyed following her nose and sometimes did a little digging in the gravel to see what she could unearth. Pippa can be a little bark-y inside her kennel, but she didn’t make a peep when we were outside. If you’re looking for a fun-loving girl to join your active family, come in soon to meet Pippa!

Splish-splash, Pippa’s taking a dip!

Daffodile the three-year-old American Staffordshire Terrier mix is a pretty girl with lots of energy. She makes a cute little noise when she’s excited, such as when she realizes it’s her turn to come out for a walk. We quickly made our way to the off-leash run, where Daffodile scampered around and explored. She watched me throw a tennis ball, but didn’t seem too interested in fetching it.

Daffodile has a cute spotted nose

Daffodile can be a cuddler. After she had burned off her initial energy, she joined me on the bench, gave me a few doggy kisses, and attempted to climb into my lap. Daffodile would like to be the only pet in her new home. She’s a strong girl who could probably use a refresher on how to politely walk on a leash, but once she’s in a home where she gets regular exercise that shouldn’t be much of an issue. Stop by soon to say hi to Daffodile!

Daffodile relaxing on the bench

Jacob the five-year-old black Labrador Retriever mix is one of the best-behaved dogs I’ve walked recently. When I came to his kennel with the leash, he sat and stayed (without being told!) until the leash was put on. Then he walked very calmly, just a couple steps ahead of me. He would occasionally look up at me as if to check that he was doing a good job. Of course I told him what a good boy he is!

Jacob asks, “Are you ready for a doggy kiss?”

Jacob enjoyed a good scratch under the chin and behind his ears. It seems as though he might like other dogs, because every time we passed one he would start wagging his tail and want to say hello, though we never got close enough for an official greeting. Jacob already has some gray fur around his nose, but don’t let that deter you. He still has lots of companionship to offer! Be sure to say hi to Jacob on your next visit to the shelter.

Jacob following his nose through the grass

I also saw Aleck, Blush, Coal, Duke, Lucy, the other Lucy, Merlin, Roxy, Weezie, Windy, and Zoey.