Orphans of the Storm® Dogs to Take on Walks

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).

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Who Found Their Forever Homes, Part XXIII

Here is another success story to put a smile on your face today! Dog walker volunteer Christy adopted her two dogs, Westley (tricolor) and Preston (brown-and-white), from Orphans of the Storm®. Here are their stories.

We adopted Westley (formerly Toby) in October 2017, when he was about 2 years old. We had walked a few other dogs when we saw him, and there something about his eyes that we connected with.

He had some separation anxiety when we first brought him home (which usually involved him gathering things we had recently touched, like our shoes, into a pile) but he was basically potty trained and seemed to have had some training in his previous home as he picked up commands really quickly. He also got along well with our two senior cats right away.

He didn’t seem sure about toys when he first got home, but after a few weeks we found a toy he loved (his Kong Wubba). Over time he has amassed a large collection of squeaky toys that for the most part he is gentle with. After a few months, the separation anxiety went away (he figured out that we would always come home) and we couldn’t imagine our life without him.

Last year we started thinking about getting a second dog so that Westley could have a playmate. We tried a couple of dog meets but the look with Westley’s eyes told us we hadn’t found the right dog. Then last September, we came in and saw Preston. Just like with Westley, there was something in Preston’s eyes that said we should take him for a walk. He was a bigger dog than we were looking for but he was such a gentle soul. He walked well on a leash and he knew some basic commands. He also gave amazing hugs. We came back later with Westley and it was clear that Preston was meant to be his brother.

Westley and Preston at their first meeting at the shelter

When Preston came home, he and Westley quickly became inseparable. They walk really well together on the leash and really enjoy their neighborhood walks each day. It took several attempts, but Westley did teach his brother to “play” with him in the backyard. Each morning after breakfast they run in the backyard to chase squirrels up a tree and then play for a few minutes (sometimes it’s zooming around the yard together, other times it’s playing together with squeaky toys–Preston can actually throw the toy and then chase it all over the yard). Preston was also about 2 years old when we got him. They are both totally bonded to us and to each other and we can’t imagine our lives without them.

P.S. We did DNA tests on both of them. Westley is an Australian Cattle Dog mix (50% Cattle Dog) and Preston is more of a mutt (25% Australian Cattle Dog, 25% Boxer, 25% Staffordshire Terrier, 12.5% Chow Chow, and 12.5% other).

Thank you, Christy, for sharing your adoption story and these adorable pictures and videos! And for being a dedicated volunteer!

If you would like to have your own Orphans of the Storm® adoption success story featured on the blog, please email meetthepooches@gmail.com.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Will Leap into Your Heart

Leap Day is tomorrow, and the dogs at Orphans of the Storm® would leap for joy if they found their forever homes!

Roxie Marie the two-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is an excellent snuggler. As soon as I knelt down to her level, she curled right up against me and then put her front paws in my lap so she could cover my face with doggy kisses. When I sat down on the bench later, Roxie Marie hopped right up next to me and particularly enjoyed getting her hips and sides scratched. Her tail is constantly wagging.

Roxie Marie has good camouflage

Roxie Marie walks great on the leash. She likes to explore and sniff, but rarely pulls and mostly just stays a couple steps ahead of her person. Roxie Marie has also participated in a few play groups and has made some doggy friends. She’s more on the calm and gentle side, but still seems to like the company of other dogs. Come in soon to see if sweet Roxie Marie is the one for you!

Roxie Marie literally smiles

Kibble the eight-month-old Labrador Retriever mix was rescued from a hoarding situation, so he’s still figuring out the best way to be a happy puppy. Since he never had anything to call his own before, he can sometimes get extra eager about food. But he’s already learning that people are great for getting lots of pets! Kibble had a fun time romping around the Enrichment Park, playing with a stuffed squeaky toy. He was perfectly content to chew on the toy and toss it around himself, but would also chase it when I threw it for him.

Kibble wondering, “What’s over there?”

Kibble likes to give his people doggy hugs. With his puppy exuberance, Kibble can sometimes pull on the leash, especially if another dog is nearby. But he’s also pretty easy to re-focus. Kibble hasn’t been a big fan of other dogs at the shelter so far, but coming from a hoarding situation, that’s understandable that he wants his own space for once! Kibble does have the potential to go to a home with children, though. Be sure to say hello to Kibble on your next visit to the shelter!

Kibble loved this toy

Sugar the four-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a total sweetheart. She loves getting attention, but she’s very mellow about it. She’ll just plop down next to you and look at you expectantly until you start petting her, and then she’ll wag her tail and poke your hand with her nose when you scratch the right spots. Sugar jumped up on every single bench we passed during our walk and looked at me like, “Okay, I’m at perfect petting height now! Time to snuggle!” She wouldn’t get off the bench until she had been satisfactorily doted upon.

Sugar modeling her cute sweater

Sugar is also an excellent walking companion. She doesn’t pull at all, and moves at an easy pace. Sugar is looking to be the only dog in her new home. However, when she’s out on walks, she doesn’t give other dogs a second glance. (She even sat directly next to Max Becks on the other side of the fence and let him sniff her through the gate.) Sugar is certainly as sweet as her name implies. Come in soon to meet her!

Sugar on the bench

Hayden the two-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix has been described as “ladylike” and “dainty”–and I agree! She’s much smaller in person than she looks in her photos, and she has a delicate prance when she walks on the leash. In fact, she is an ideal walking companion because she doesn’t pull at all, and she rarely stops to sniff. She just likes keeping up with her person.

Hayden’s ears waving in the wind

Hayden can be a little shy when she first comes out of her kennel, but after she explored the off-leash run for a bit on her own, she came over to me to get some pets. She sniffed a couple of toys but wasn’t interested in playing with them. However, she does have an athletic side! She jumped right onto the roof of the doghouse and then hopped off the other side like it was no big deal. If you’re looking for a pretty little princess, be sure to say hello to Hayden!

Hayden is such a pretty color

Moose the two-year-old Labrador Retriever/Australian Cattle Dog mix is a very handsome boy, with his one blue eye and one brown eye. He can pull a bit on the leash when he first comes out of his kennel, but settles down nicely once he’s on the woodland preserve trail. Whenever I knelt down to his level, Moose came over to give me a quick doggy kiss and then leaned against my arm while I pet him. He enjoyed sniffing around the off-leash run but wasn’t too interested in toys during this particular outing.

Moose being a good walking buddy

Moose gets along well with other dogs. He was originally sharing his kennel with a Husky who has since been adopted, and he also likes to participate in play groups. His favorite form of play is to chase and be chased. He’s made a couple good doggy friends so far. Be sure to stop in soon to meet Moose!

Moose’s blue eye always makes him look surprised

Baxter the one-year-old Shepherd mix is the most snuggly pup. Whenever I knelt down next to him, regardless of what else was going on around us, Baxter immediately put his front legs into my lap and rested his chin in the crook of my elbow. He also joined me on the bench a couple times and sat in my lap so I could pet him and so he could give me doggy kisses. Baxter is too sweet!

Baxter is too cute

Baxter is barely out of puppyhood, so he has lots of enthusiasm and can occasionally pull on the leash during walks when he gets excited. For the most part, though, he’s a good walking companion. Baxter is currently sharing his kennel with not-yet-profiled Gracie and also regularly participates in play group. He has a long list of doggy friends already! So Baxter definitely has potential to go to a home with another dog. Come by the shelter soon to say hello to Baxter!

Baxter being a lapdog

Rusty the two-year-old Hound mix likes to follow his nose, as Hounds are known to do. He slowly meandered around the off-leash run, exploring along the fence line and behind the bushes. Rusty also liked keeping an eye on what was happening on the other side of the fence and watching other people and dogs go by. After Rusty finished exploring on his own, he put his front paws up on the bench next to me so I could rub his belly and scratch his ears.

Rusty enjoying a chin scratch

Rusty enjoyed taking the occasional break during our walk around the woodland preserve trail to get more pets. Even if he was moving right along, he would stop as soon as I did and come over to cuddle. Although I didn’t get a doggy kiss on this outing, he seemed to seriously consider it when he put his nose right up to mine. Rusty was originally sharing his kennel with a dog who has since been adopted and also participates in play group, so he could go to a home with or without another dog. Come in soon to meet Rusty!

Rusty in the shade

I also saw Brunhilda.

Play group this week included Baxter, Big Boy, Haruto, Hunky, Jupiter, Moose, Prince, Princess, Rusty, Springer, and Titus, as well as the not-yet-profiled Aspen, Buffer, Chili, Clara, Crema, Daisy Mae, Dee Dee, Gerald, Jack, Lake, Shadow, Skittles, Van, Whisper, and Ziggy.

Orphans of the Storm® Has Singles Looking for a Valentine

This weekend, February 15-16, Orphans of the Storm® is hosting a “Singles for Singles” Valentine’s Day Promo! Several dogs and cats are designated as needing to go to a “single-pet” home where they can be the only one to get all of your love and attention. For the specific dogs and cats listed below, their adoption fee will be waived (final vet fees still apply). So if you’re a one-pet kind of person, be sure to stop in this weekend to find your perfect match!

Eligible Dogs:

• Jupiter
• Mardi Gras (who I haven’t profiled yet because she’s such a volunteer favorite, someone else always walks her before I can get to her!)
• Princess
• Brice
• Cocoa

Eligible Cats:

• Miss Spartacus
• Angel
• Morning Star
• Ginger
• Pepper
• Poppy (who has some special needs and therefore needs a special person to bring him home!)

This is also a big week because we celebrated our one-year anniversary of implementing play groups! More than 8,000 times in just this one year, a dog has entered the play group yard to join the fun. Play groups make the dogs happy, make the staff and volunteers happy, and make potential adopters happy because we can tell them even more about a dog’s personality from the way they behave in play group. It’s a win-win-win!

And here are some more sweet dogs also looking for a Valentine!

Lenny the eight-month-old Labrador Retriever mix was rescued from a hoarding situation, but his unfortunate beginning hasn’t dampened his spirits! He is a happy, playful puppy with plenty of energy. Lenny loves racing around the Enrichment Park. He did a few laps on his own and then slowed down long enough to sniff each corner of the yard. Lenny also enjoyed chasing after and playing with a bouncy ball.

This was possibly Lenny’s first time experiencing snowfall, but he seemed to like it

Lenny likes to give doggy hugs and likes getting pet, when he does eventually slow down! Despite all of his energy when he’s off-leash, he is actually a pretty easy walking companion on-leash and rarely pulls. Lenny occasionally participates in play group, but is still learning some doggy manners and can pester the other dogs when he wants to play but they don’t. If you’re looking for a playful pup, be sure to say hello to Lenny on your next visit to the shelter!

Lenny on the move!

Duke the three-year-old Feist/Australian Cattle Dog mix is super sweet. He gave me a doggy hug as soon as he came out of his kennel and continued wanting to cuddle when we were in the off-leash run. He climbed right into my lap (or as much of him as would fit) and covered my face in doggy kisses. Any time I knelt down to his level, he came right over for more pets, snuggles, and kisses.

Duke being a cutie

Duke likes meandering around the yard, casually sniffing and exploring. He is one of the easiest leash-walkers I’ve walked in a while. Duke doesn’t pull at all and stays by your side or just a couple small steps ahead. Duke participates in play groups and actively plays with the other dogs. Come in soon to see if Duke is the one for you!

Duke is a champion snuggler

Douglas the one-year-old Pit Bull Terrier is a little shy when he first comes out of his kennel, but perks up the longer he’s out. It was almost impossible to get a picture of his adorable face because every time I knelt down to his level, he tucked his head into my lap and leaned into me. It was so sweet! Douglas loves getting his sides and hips rubbed when he does this. He’ll happily stay in this position until you stand up again.

I wasn’t lying about Douglas getting too close to get a good face photo!

Douglas got more playful as we spent more time together. He had a lot of fun chasing after toys and chewing on stuffed squeakers. Douglas walks nicely on the leash and rarely pulls. He’s been in one play group so far and did pretty well, though he was getting a little anxious being with several other large males. We’ll find the right friends for him! If you’re looking for a super snuggler, come in soon to meet Douglas!

Douglas in the snow

Achilles the four-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a gentle giant. If you love ginormous, wrinkly faces, then you will absolutely love Achilles! But he’s more than just good looks. Achilles is an easy-going guy. He particularly likes getting his hips scratched and will turn his head around to look at you as if to say, “Oh good, you found the right spot.” Achilles wasn’t too interested in toys, and was mostly just making his way through the snow to explore the yard.

Achilles looking very gentlemanly

Achilles likes to move at a quick pace on his walks. Even though he’s big and could be strong, though, he doesn’t pull as long as you’re keeping up with him. Achilles is already a play group regular and likes being with the calmer, gentler dogs. He politely sniffs each one in greeting but isn’t too interested in actively playing. You’re more likely to find him sitting at the feet of one of the people in the yard. Be sure to say hello to Achilles on your next visit to the shelter!

Achilles enjoying his back scratches

I also saw Bailey, Meshai, and Polly.

Play group this week included Achilles, Bailey, Cocoa, Douglas, Jupiter, Meshai, Prince, Rudgie, and Spooky, as well as the not-yet-profiled Barrett, Buffer, Chaco, Chili, Crema, Flower, Ink, Nina, Pumpkin Spice, Rambo, Roxie Marie, and Zeb.

Orphans of the Storm® Celebrates Adopt a Senior Pet Month

November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month, and Orphans of the Storm® is celebrating by waiving the adoption fees for dogs and cats 7 years and older! (Additional vaccination/vet fees will still apply.) The Orphans of the Storm® website now has a feature to let you sort by age, so you can see a full list of available senior dogs.

But if you’re thinking of a younger dog, there are plenty for you to meet too!

French Fry the five-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is shy but super sweet. He’s already come out of his shell a lot in the few weeks that he’s been here, but we know there’s more fun personality in there! French Fry loves to cuddle and get attention. He put his head in my lap when I sat down next to him and rolled over to get a belly rub. French Fry also enjoyed getting pet by a young girl while her parents were looking at another dog.

French Fry would rather cuddle than walk

French Fry didn’t want to walk too far when we were out, but when he does walk, he is an easy walking companion. He occasionally sniffs, but mostly just watches what’s happening around him and then comes back to his person for some extra encouragement. French Fry is looking for a home that will give him all the love he deserve. If you’re looking for a sweet, snuggly boy, come in soon to meet French Fry!

French Fry being a lapdog

Henry Hippo the three-year-old Hound mix absolutely loves going to play group and being with the other dogs. He wants to interact with everybody, and encourages the other dogs to play with him by rolling on the ground with all four legs straight in the air (you can see a video of this here). Henry Hippo is currently sharing his kennel with Pups (see below), so he can definitely go to a home with another dog.

Henry Hippo has the best Hound face

Henry Hippo is a good leash-walking companion and enjoys sniffing and exploring, as Hounds do. His nose is most often right on the ground to track all the scents. Henry Hippo can be talkative in play group but quiet when it’s just him. He particularly likes getting scratches on his chin and ears. Henry Hippo is a happy, fun boy who will bring smiles to his new home. Be sure to say hello to Henry Hippo on your next visit to the shelter!

This may not be Henry Hippo’s most flattering angle

Pups the ten-year-old Rottweiler mix was adopted from Orphans of the Storm® years ago, but his owner recently passed away so Pups is back and looking for a new home again. Now Pups has many years of experience living in a home and being a companion. He is super sweet, mellow, and easy-going. He’d be happy to spend most of his time relaxing around the house with his new family.

Pups always has a smile on his face

Pups does enjoy the occasional spurt of romping around the yard too, though, and since he’s a bit chunky, more walks and exercise would be good for him! Pups walks nicely on the leash. He especially enjoys getting his hips scratched and will wriggle around happily when you scratch the right spot. Pups is currently sharing his kennel with Henry Hippo (see above) and sometimes attends play groups, so he could go to a home with or without another dog. If you’ve been considering adding a senior to your home, consider Pups!

Pups like having a yard to explore

Oreo the five-year-old Border Collie mix would be a good companion for someone who likes taking brisk walks, because Oreo walks with a purpose (but doesn’t pull at all). He led the way around the woodland preserve trail and only stopped when I stopped. Oreo was happy to join me on the bench for some pets. He loves getting his hips scratched and will keep leaning and leaning against your hand until he plops over.

Oreo is such a handsome boy

Oreo did some sniffing and exploring around the off-leash yard but was mostly interested in staying close to me and getting more pets. He occasionally attends play group and doesn’t mind being around the other dogs, but generally doesn’t actively play with them. Oreo is looking for an adult home or a home with older, teenaged children (Border Collies are known to herd kids). Come in soon to see if Oreo is the pooch for you!

Oreo wanting a closeup

Willie the one-year-old Shepherd mix is super affectionate. He quickly became a volunteer favorite because of how snuggly he is. Willie loves to give doggy hugs, climb into laps, and cover faces in doggy kisses. He excitedly joined me on the bench and would have stayed right next to me all afternoon if he could. He gets along with other dogs and has done nicely with kids that he’s met at the shelter.

Willie sitting on the bench

Willie walks nicely on the leash overall, though he gets the occasional burst of energy where he jumps and spins around a few times before continuing on his walk. Being barely out of puppyhood, Willie loves to play with toys and seems to understand the concept of “fetch.” Willie arrived at the shelter with some health issues, but he’s ready now to settle in to his forever home. Come in soon to meet Willie!

Willie enjoyed this squeaky bone

Rita the one-year-old Labrador Retriever/Australian Cattle Dog mix is super snuggly. As soon as she came out of her kennel, she gave a doggy hug to me and then another one to a visitor, who of course started cooing about how cute Rita is. When I let Rita off-leash in the yard, she just wanted to climb into my lap and cuddle some more. She’s a little timid at the shelter, but super sweet.

Rita on a walk

Rita was originally sharing her kennel with another puppy who has since been adopted. She also attends play group and comes out of her shell more after playing with the other dogs. So, she could go to a home with or without another dog. If you’re looking for a cuddly and playful puppy, be sure to say hello to Rita!

Rita wasn’t quite sure what to make of this big yard

I also saw Barney, Brutus, and Kira.

Play group included Brutus, Dunkin, Kado, Kira, Reno, and Riley (Diamond), as well as not-yet-profiled dogs Addie, Corrina, Freyr, and Maisie.

Orphans of the Storm® Pups and Young Dogs

There are many adorable puppies and younger dogs eager to meet you at Orphans of the Storm® right now! (Also, it was another rainy day, so I apologize for the blurry and dreary photos. Everyone looks much cuter and happier when they’re dry, I promise!)

Mack the three-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a big, friendly boy. He can pull a bit on the leash when he first comes out of his kennel, but calms down into a nice walking companion once he gets on the woodland preserve trail. He likes to spend his walks sniffing thoroughly and exploring. Mack also likes to snuffle around the off-leash runs.

Mack standing at attention

Mack is attentive and likes to keep an eye on what’s happening around him. When we were in the off-leash run, he was poking his nose through the fence to see which people and dogs were on the other side. Mack occasionally attends play group, but prefers to be in smaller groups with females. He isn’t as much a fan of other male dogs. Mack also isn’t fond of cats, so he may do best as the only pet in his new home. Come in soon to see if Mack is the pooch for you!

Mack was skeptical about the rain

Sadie the eight-month-old Australian Cattle Dog mix (not to be confused with the other Sadie) is a little shy and nervous when you first meet her, but she gets super snuggly once she feels more comfortable. In fact, it was hard to get a good picture of her because she wanted to keep climbing into my lap or leaning against my legs. Sadie is a champion leaner. She even spent the first few play groups standing in between the leaders’ legs, but has started engaging and playing more. Her “heeler” side is coming out and she tries herding the other dogs!

Sadie is definitely a snuggler

Sadie is a nice leash-walking companion who rarely pulls, since she likes to be as close to her person as possible. Her tail can sometimes be tucked, but it starts wagging when you scratch her hips. Sadie is a smart, sweet, athletic girl looking for an active home where she can also cuddle on the couch. Be sure to say hello to Sadie on your next visit to the shelter!

I wish this wasn’t so blurry, but you can at least see Sadie’s giant ears

Fletcher the seven-month-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a happy, playful puppy. He’s excited when it’s his turn to come out, but he quickly settles into being a super easy walking companion. Fletcher already knows some basic commands and is ready to learn more. He’s attentive to his person and will look at you often while on walks to make sure you’re on the same page.

Fletcher being a good walking buddy

Fletcher is a play group regular and enjoys playing with the other dogs. He lived with another dog before he arrived at the shelter, so he could go to a home with or without a furry friend. Fletcher also likes getting lots of pets and attention, and will give you a doggy smile with a wagging tail. Fletcher has adorable spots on his nose that will make you smile when you see him. Come in soon to meet Fletcher!

A white dog on a muddy day isn’t the best, but Fletcher still looks cute

June Bug the two-year-old English Coonhound mix gave me a doggy hug as soon as she came out of her kennel. Even when I let her off leash in the Enrichment Park, she just wanted to spend her time snuggling with me. When I knelt down to her level, June Bug curled up against me and gave me some doggy kisses while I scratched her sides. After we got our cuddling in, June Bug spent some time following her nose and sniffing all the smells.

June Bug wishing I wasn’t slowing her down

June Bug goes into Hound mode once she hits the trail, though. She walks with a purpose and is eager to track scents. Although she likes to walk at a quick pace, she doesn’t pull too much as long as you’re keeping up with her. June Bug attends play group pretty much every day and loves playing with other dogs. However, she isn’t a fan of cats. June Bug might do best in an adult-only home. If that sounds like you, come in soon to meet June Bug!

June Bug doing what Hounds do best

Bandit and Remmy the four-month-old Pointer/Labrador Retriever mixes are the most precious puppies. I unfortunately couldn’t tell who was who because they look so similar, but one is smaller with a wider white space between the eyes, and the other is larger with a thinner white space between the eyes. But whichever one you pick (or, if you pick both!), you can’t go wrong.

This one (Bandit? Remmy?) was the shier of the two

Bandit and Remmy are in the wriggly, snuggly puppy stage. They are constantly moving, jumping up to give doggy hugs, attempting to nibble your shirt sleeves, and just overall adorable. They don’t have a ton of experience walking on the leash yet, so they can be a little nervous at first and try to walk between your legs.

But Bandit and/or Remmy loves to cuddle too

When you kneel down to their level, you will soon find yourself covered in doggy kisses. Bandit and Remmy just want to be close to their person. They are very playful and were happy to play a game of tag with me as I ran back and forth across the Enrichment Park. Getting “tagged” meant getting even more kisses.

This other one (Remmy? Bandit?) wanted to be the leader

Bandit and Remmy have started participating in play groups and enjoy spending time with other dogs. They’re learning proper socialization, though sometimes they still get stuck in their puppy mentality and can annoy the older dogs a bit. Bandit and Remmy don’t need to be adopted together since they’re so young, but they do make a super-cute pair. Come in soon to meet one or both!

Happy doggy hugs from Remmy and/or Bandit

I also saw Alec(k), Barney, the other Sadie, and Turbo.

This week’s play group included Bandit, Blue, Cass, Chance, Donny, Joan, June Bug, Polly, Rachel, Reese, Remmy, Reno, Sadie, Spike, and Turk, as well as not-yet-profiled dogs Anya, Bison, Fannie, Henry, Henry Hippo, Izzy, Kida, Maggie, Queenie, Red, Sapphire, Scarlett, Sunshine, Todd, and Toes.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Offer Lots of Love

Orphans of the Storm® has welcomed many new dogs after we emptied so many kennels during Clear the Shelters a few weeks ago! Now is a great time to come in and make a new furry friend.

Sadie the three-year-old Australian Cattle Dog mix is super cute and gets lots of compliments from people as they walk through the shelter. She was originally sharing her kennel with another dog who has since been adopted, so she seems to get along with other dogs (though we haven’t had her in play group yet to see how she does in larger groups). Sadie loves getting attention and particularly likes to get her hips and sides scratched.

Sadie sniffing around

Sadie walks nicely on the leash and is pretty attentive to her person. Whenever I knelt down to take her picture, she came trotting right over to me. She’s an affectionate girl who likes to give lots of doggy kisses and put her front paws in your lap. Sadie is particularly interested in squirrels and stood at attention at the base of a few trees, hoping they would come back down. Be sure to say hello to Sadie on your next visit to the shelter!

Sadie enjoying a nice scratch on the hips

Turk the three-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a happy, playful boy who loves toys. He saw a squeaky toy lying in the off-leash run and went face-first into the fence in his excitement to get the toy. Turk also enjoys finding and carrying sticks during his walks–the bigger the stick, the better. He can make anything fun!

Turk was proud of this large stick

Turk can be a little strong when he first comes out of his kennel, but he settles into being a pretty good walking buddy once he gets his initial burst of energy out of his system. Turk occasionally participates in play groups and has made a couple doggy friends, but he can play a little rough for some. Come in soon to see if Turk is the pooch for you!

Turk likes to be active

Chance the one-year-old Labrador Retriever/Mountain Cur mix still has his puppy exuberance. He would make an excellent running companion for an active person. Chance ran all the way around the woodland preserve with just a couple stops to sniff, and probably would have been happy to do a couple more laps if I had the endurance. He can nibble on the leash a bit when he first comes out of his kennel, but gets into walking/running mode pretty quickly.

Chance was a blur in all of his photos

Chance is a sweetie, too. He loves to give doggy hugs and get lots of pets. Chance enjoys chasing after toys but could use a little more practice on the bringing-it-back part. Chance also enjoys the company of other dogs. He is a play group rockstar and gets along with everybody. His play style is more on the “rough and rowdy” side, so he particularly likes having active playmates. If you’re looking for a new exercise partner, be sure to say hello to Chance!

Chance prefers moving to being still

Tommy the four-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is super smart and already a fan of agility. When we were in the Enrichment Park, he completed the A-frame three times, jumped over the hurdle (on the lowest rung, but I believe he could have gone higher with ease!), and went halfway through the tunnel. And all with nothing more than a couple words of encouragement!

Tommy with a big smile

Tommy is super affectionate. He covered my face in doggy kisses at every chance he got and climbed into my lap a couple times. He also put his front paws in my lap and rested his head there while I pet him. Tommy participates in play groups and likes to play with the other dogs. He was recently given “rockstar” status because he does so well with everybody. If you’re looking for a sweet and smart new friend, come in soon to meet Tommy!

Tommy using his ears as wings

Lars the ten-year-old German Shepherd mix is super easy-going and gentle. He has a limp on one of his back legs, so he doesn’t move too fast or go too far, but he still likes to get out and enjoy the fresh air. In fact, Lars followed his nose all the way around the Enrichment Park and would probably appreciate having a nice yard to call his own in his new home.

Lars appreciating a side scratch

Lars wants to be close to his person. When I sat down, he stood right next to me so I could pet him and then gave me a little nudge so I would keep petting him. He would also pause from his sniffing to come back and get another scratch from me. Lars has participated in a couple play groups with more mellow dogs and has enjoyed their company. If you’re looking for a senior dog who just wants a comfy, loving place to spend their golden years, be sure to meet Lars on your next visit to the shelter!

Lars has the cutest folded ear

Reese the three-year-old Labrador Retriever/Pit Bull Terrier mix recently lost a front leg in a car accident, but she is much speedier than you would think! Dogs are so resilient. Reese does best with shorter walks right now, but she enjoys lying in the grass in the yard and watching people, birds, and cars go by. Reese started off pretty shy but is coming out of her shell more every day.

Reese relaxing

Reese is very gentle. She happily accepts pets and chin scratches. She’s met a couple children and seems to do well with them. She also attends play groups with the calmer dogs and has made new doggy friends. Reese has a long, happy life ahead of her and is just looking for the right family to spend it with. If you think that could be you, come in soon to meet Reese!

Reese having some yard time

I also saw Apollo (who knows “sit,” “shake,” and “speak”) and Barney (who also knows “sit” and “shake”).

Play group this week included Alec(k), Brutus, Chance, Cocoa, Donny, Lucy, Polly, Quinn, Tommy, and Turbo, as well as not-yet-profiled dogs Dipper, Inca (who gave me lots of doggy hugs when I joined the group in the yard and hopped into my lap when I sat on the bench), Isabelle, Joan, Posie, and Smokey.

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

It’s not the dog days of summer without actual dogs by your side! Come in to Orphans of the Storm® to meet your new best friend.

Jupiter the two-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a super playful pup who loves toys. The first thing he did when we got to the off-leash run was pick up a stuffed duck toy and proudly carry it around the run. Jupiter later alternated between carrying the duck and a stuffed octopus. He’s happy to chase after toys if you throw them, but prefers holding them to bringing them back for more fetching.

Jupiter very proud of his toy duck

Jupiter can pull a bit on the leash when he first comes out of his kennel, but as soon as we got to the woodland preserve trail, he settled down into a nice walking companion. He likes to sniff and explore, but didn’t stray too far from my side. He was also happy to take the occasional break for pets and snuggles. Jupiter is ready to join a fun-loving home who will have fun loving him. Stop by the shelter soon to see if Jupiter is the one for you!

Jupiter loving the octopus

Thelma and Louise the six-year-old Pug/Beagle (Puggle) mixes are a bonded pair looking for a forever home with space for two. And when I say bonded, I really mean it–they do everything together! They walk with their sides touching a lot of the time, they sniff the same spots, and they even pooped at the same time and place 😀

Imagine waking up to Thelma’s precious face every morning

Thelma and Louise spent the first few minutes doing some exploring of the off-leash run on their own. But after that, they both came over to me and wanted to snuggle up in my lap. Thelma and Louise both love having their hips scratched and do a cute little dance with happy snorts.

Louise leading the way

Louise ended up joining me on the bench and gave me a few doggy kisses. Thelma attempted to hop on the bench but it was a little too tall for her, so I scooted down to the ground to cuddle with her instead. Thelma and Louise used to live with children, so they could go to a home with or without kids.

Thelma is a cutie-patootie

Thelma and Louise walk surprisingly quickly for their size and shape! They led the way around the woodland preserve trail. Their Beagle side came out when a chipmunk ran in front of us and they were both ready to chase after it. But their sweet, friendly, affectionate Pug side is what will steal your heart. Be sure to say hello to Thelma and Louise on your next visit to the shelter!

Louise following her nose

Bruno the two-year-old Australian Cattle Dog mix has been adopted but returned a couple times, so he’s looking for owners who have experience with his breed or other active working breeds. Bruno is a dog who likes to be kept busy! He would be good for someone who likes long walks or jogs, because he walks at a quick pace but doesn’t pull on the leash at all.

Bruno is ready for his close-up

Bruno loves toys. He both plays fetch and just enjoys plopping down and chewing on a favorite toy. He seems partial to tennis balls, but also liked a soft ring-shaped toy for chewing. Bruno gets along with other dogs and is a play group regular who likes to play tag and either chase or be chased. If you know and love his breed and are looking for an active companion, come in soon to meet Bruno!

Bruno is such a handsome boy

Charles the three-year-old Doberman Pinscher mix is super sweet and affectionate. All he wants to do is be cuddled. He’s a little too large to fit in laps, but he rested his head on my lap multiple times and looked at me with the sweetest puppy-dog eyes. It was hard to get a full-body photo of him because every time I knelt down to his level, he was right there to snuggle with me.

Charles says, “Please love me!”

Charles is a good leash-walking buddy. I’ve walked him around the woodland preserve trail on two different days. The first day, he was always right by my side or a couple steps ahead and didn’t pull at all. He was a little more active the second time and wanted to go at a quicker pace, but would still stop and come cuddle when I knelt down to his level. Charles would do best as the only dog in his new home. Stop by the shelter soon to say hello to Charles!

Charles loves getting attention

Duke the one-year-old Mountain Cur mix can be a little strong when he first comes out of his kennel, but was much calmer as we made our way around the woodland preserve trail. He liked leading the way and sniffing, but was happy to pause for some pets and put his front paws next to me on the bench. He also rested his head in my lap.

Duke being lovey-dovey

Duke also liked exploring around the Enrichment Park, snuffling around the trees and flower pots. He took a dip in the puppy pool and had fun splashing around with his front paws. Duke gets along with other dogs and attends play group often, where he romps and plays with the others. If you’re looking for a big puppy, come in soon to meet Duke!

Duke has the prettiest chocolate fur

I also saw Apollo, Barney (who loves mud puddles and splashing in the puppy pool), Mabel, Mojo, and Sonny.

Play group this week included Alec(k), Beatrix, Bo, Cass, Cheyenne (Shyanne), Donny, Duke, Dunkin the Red, Leia, Lucy, Maggie, Max, Polly, Reeco, and Roscoe, as well as not-yet-profiled dogs Al, Baby Girl, Cindy, Felix, Henry, Henry Hippo, Hunter, Kraken, the other Max, Pixie, Posie, Simba, Stella, Val, Wile-E, and Zimma.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Say, “Sun’s Out, Tongues Out!”

It was a steamy day at Orphans of the Storm®, so the dogs were on their most mellow setting and just wanted to relax and stay cool. There will be some long tongues in the photos ahead!

Also, the Orphans of the Storm® website is under construction, so please bear with me as I work on updating all of the dogs’ links on the Dog Profiles page! Apologies in advance if you end up on a “page not found” page.

Luanne the three-year-old Australian Cattle Dog mix is super snuggly. As soon as I knelt down to her level, she put her front paws in my lap and covered my face in doggy kisses. She was happy to stay in my lap for as long as I was petting her. Luanne is a pretty good walking companion in that she mostly walks nicely by your side and doesn’t pull much, but she does like to nibble on the leash a bit. She seems to understand the “drop” command, though, so she just needs a little more practice.

Luanne with her pretty speckled fur

Luanne loves being with other dogs. She goes to play group every day and sometimes stays in for an hour or more–she gets along with everybody! Luanne can also hold her own when play gets a little rowdy. Luanne is a fun girl looking for a fun home. If you think that might be with you, be sure to say hello to Luanne on your next visit to the shelter!

Luanne has bright eyes and a pink tongue!

Ansley the four-year-old Plott mix greets every person with a wagging tail. She was eager to go for a walk and led the way to the off-leash run, where she had a fun time exploring behind the bushes and keeping cool in the shade. She came over for a pet when I knelt down to her level, and put her front paws in my lap.

Ansley on alert

Ansley is currently sharing her kennel with Puddin (see below) and gets along with other dogs. She and Tiny sniffed each other through the fence and even both put their front feet up to hold paws before deciding to race each other. Ansley walked pretty nicely on the leash, though she’ll occasionally pull if there’s a particular scent she wants to follow. Come in soon to see if Ansley is the pooch for you!

Ansley enjoying a romp

Puddin the seven-year-old Beagle mix is very shy right now and needs some extra encouragement to come out of her kennel. She doesn’t mind being picked up and seems to prefer being carried past the kennels of the other dogs before she feels more comfortable walking on her own. Puddin’s tail was tucked between her legs at first, but loosened up the longer we were out.

Puddin feeling perkier

Puddin can’t hide the fact that she’s part Beagle! She loved walking through the tall grasses along the woodland preserve trail and stopped often for thorough sniffing. Puddin gets along with other dogs her size and is currently sharing her kennel with Ansley (see above). She just needs some extra TLC right now to help her come out of her shell. If you’re looking for a little sweetie, come in soon to meet Puddin!

Puddin wanted to stay in the grass for as long as she could

Mabel the four-year-old Chihuahua/Terrier mix is the cutest little thing. As soon as she found a cool spot in the grass, she flopped over and rolled around on her back. When I started giving her a belly rub, Mabel closed her eyes and almost fell asleep! Everyone who saw her couldn’t help but smile, she looked so content.

Mabel says, “Excuse me, I have a belly that requires rubbing!”

Mabel is also a good lapdog. She likes being carried and held. Mabel gets along with other dogs her size. She is currently sharing her kennel with a Beagle not up for adoption yet, and had a brief play group session with four other little dogs. It was too hot to actively play for her, but she politely sniffed everyone and didn’t mind them sniffing her too. Be sure to say hello to Mabel the next time you come to the shelter!

Mabel in play group with new friends

I also spent some time with a few not-yet-profiled dogs but didn’t get their pictures yet: Khavi, Malachi, Nidget, and Carmella (who are all currently sharing a kennel and are all super snuggly lapdogs); Orlando (who is one of the most affectionate dogs at the shelter right now); and Thelma and Louise (a bonded pair of Puggles!).

Play group this week included Alec(k), Beatrix, Brutus, Cass, Cheyenne (Shyanne), Donny, Dunkin the Red, Elijah, Huckleberry, John Boy, Leia, Luanne, Lucy, Maggie, Max, Mojo, Polly, Quinn, Roscoe, Sasha, and Turbo, as well as not-yet-profiled dogs Al, Bruno, Chance, Dennis, Heath, the other Max, PB&J, Pixie, Posie, Ruben, Simone, Snickers, Val, and Wile-E.dd

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Who Will Be Your Cuddle Buddy

There are lots of sweet and snuggly dogs ready to meet you at Orphans of the Storm®! Here are just a couple.

Sonny the one-and-a-half-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier/Labrador Retriever mix can be a little bark-y and jump-y in his kennel, but he melts into a puddle of sweetness as soon as he gets his leash put on. He gave me a doggy hug and doggy kisses right away, and wasn’t even that interested in walking! He just wanted to climb into my lap and get pet. One kiss is definitely never enough for Sonny!

Sonny has the happiest smile

Sonny is a nice walking companion. In fact, he wants to be so close to his person that sometimes he was walking between my legs rather than to my side. Sonny enjoys rolling around on his back in the grass but will also lay still for you to give him belly rubs. Sonny needs a little more practice learning how to be a dog, because he seemed a little nervous when I started tossing toys for him to chase and didn’t know what to do with them. But this young pup is eager to learn. Be sure to say hello to Sonny on your next visit to the shelter!

Sonny got a little muddy but didn’t mind

Harper the two-year-old Australian Cattle Dog/Labrador Retriever mix likes people of all ages, including children. She’s already gone to Orphans of the Storm®’s Northbrook Court location and loved getting attention and pets from everyone who stopped in. Harper loves water and enjoys stretching out in the puppy pool. She also liked splashing in puddles from the recent rain when we were on our walk. Maybe her future home will include a pool or a lake!

Harper getting her feet wet

Harper is well-mannered. She sat nicely for me without even being asked, and is a good walking companion. She likes to give doggy hugs and the occasional doggy kiss. Harper gets along with other dogs and has become a play group regular. Sometimes she just enjoys sniffing on her own, and sometimes she likes to tumble around with the others. Come in soon to meet Harper!

Harper showing her serious side

Play group this week included Brutus, Cass, Cheyenne (Shyanne), Donny, Dunkin the Red, Elijah, Harper, Huckleberry, John Boy, Leia, Lucy, Maggie, Max, Mojo, Polly, Reeco, Sasha, Turbo, and Whizzer…

Everyone’s hiding their faces! But we have Dennis (I think), Snickers, Huckleberry, Magic, Henry, and Lucy

…As well as not-yet-profiled dogs Baby Girl, Calamity Jane, Dennis, Honey, Jupiter, the other Max, Pixie, Posie, Raven, Rhett, Rowdy, Snickers, Sybil, and Tracker.

Dennis (I think) and Snickers

There were also a few dogs who haven’t made it on the website yet (it’s still under construction but will be updated soon!) like Henry, Magic, PB&J, Rose, and Tiny.

Cheyenne (Shyanne), Raven, Calamity Jane, and Snickers