Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Who Make Friends Easily

Thanks to play groups, we have a much better understanding of which dogs at Orphans of the Storm® get along with other dogs and which don’t. Right now, there are so many adoptable dogs who enjoy the company of other dogs. If you already have a pet at home and are looking to add another, here are just a few to consider–and there are plenty of others!

Bradshaw the seven-year-old Labrador Retriever mix is super sweet. He just wants to be loved, and has the most contented expression on his face whenever he gets pet. He particularly enjoys getting his sides and hips scratched, but anywhere really works for him! Bradshaw enjoys taking his time to explore around the yard, sniffing here and there before coming back to you to get more snuggles.

Bradshaw keeping an eye on things

Bradshaw is a very easy walking companion. He goes at a slow and steady pace and, since he’s older, he doesn’t need long walks. Bradshaw attends play group almost every day and enjoys the company of calm, mellow dogs like himself. This means he could go to a home with or without another dog. If you’ve been considering adding a sweet senior to your home, be sure to say hello to Bradshaw on your next visit to the shelter!

Bradshaw smiling while getting pet

Murdoch the one-year-old Border Collie mix is very easy-going. He’s a great walking companion who doesn’t pull at all on the leash and just stays one or two steps ahead of you. He occasionally stops to sniff around, but mostly trots along evenly. When Murdoch was in the off-leash yard, he poked a few toys with his nose but wasn’t too interested in chasing after them or playing fetch.

Murdoch showing off his blue eye and floofy tail

Murdoch started off by slowly exploring the yard, then got the zoomies and ran a couple laps with a happy doggy smile on his face. He’s a handsome, fluffy boy with one bright blue eye and he’ll definitely catch your attention as you walk through the kennels. Murdoch attends play group and likes being with other dogs, though other large males don’t always like him back. He could go to a home with or without another dog. If you’re looking for a go-with-the-flow kind of dog, come in soon to meet Murdoch!

Murdoch enjoying the trail

Roger the three-year-old Doberman Pinscher/Shepherd mix is a big, strong boy with a big heart to match. He is an excellent snuggling companion. Every time I sat down on a bench, Roger immediately stopped whatever he was doing and came over to lean against my legs and give me doggy kisses. He especially enjoys scratches on his sides, hips, and neck and will stand by you for as long as you keep petting him. Whenever we passed someone new on our walk, Roger gave them an enthused doggy hug and wanted to snuggle with them too.

Roger being a snuggle-bug

Roger likes to lead the way on walks and would probably do best with a front-clip harness to deter him from pulling. He did slow down the longer we were out on the trail, though. Roger regularly attends play group and gets along with both the calm, gentle dogs and the dogs who like to chase and play tag. He could go to a home with or without another dog. Visit the shelter soon to meet Roger!

Roger is so cute with his one floppy ear

I also spent some time with Eerie, Gazoo, and Oswald, but all three of them are shy little Chihuahuas who just wanted to be carried and cuddled rather than walk on their own, so I wasn’t able to get pictures–my hands were literally full!

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Who Get Along with Other Dogs

If you already have a dog (or multiple dogs) at home with you and are looking to add another, there are so many dog-friendly dogs at Orphans of the Storm® right now! Below are just some of the ones you should meet.

Princess the one-year-old Boxer/Pit Bull Terrier mix is super snuggly. Any time you kneel down to her level, she will immediately scoot her way into your lap to get pets. She wanted to be so close to me when we were sitting together on a bench that she first put her paws on my shoulder, and then on top of my head! You can’t get much closer than that. Princess also likes to give gentle doggy kisses. She is a very easy walking companion.

Princess coming in for a cuddle

Princess is a play group regular and participates every day. Even the dogs who are pickier about their friends all want to be friends with Princess. Princess is housebroken and crate-trained. She has been around children as young as four and did well with them, so she’s ready to join a family. Be sure to say hello to Princess on your next visit to the shelter!

Princess has one cute tan ear

Badger the five-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is the kind of dog who would rather cuddle on the couch than go on walks. In fact, the only way I got him to walk at all was to go as far as the leash would let me, kneel down, and have Badger come over for pets; then repeat; then repeat again. Badger loves to bury his face in your lap while you scratch his ears and sides. Badger eventually did some exploring in the off-leash run but came back to me often to get more attention.

Badger sticking his tongue out at the idea of walking

Badger is getting more comfortable in play group and is becoming a regular participant. He enjoys playing with the other dogs. He has some resource-guarding tendencies when it comes to food, so an adult-only home would probably be best for him. If you’re looking for a new cuddle companion, come in soon to meet Badger!

Badger likes to keep an eye on things

Brunhilda the two-year-old Hound mix is very Hound-y! We always know where she is because she is a talker who loves to bay. Once Brunhilda gets on the woodland preserve trail, though, she quiets down and focuses on sniffing. She likes to walk at a quick pace bordering on running but keeps her nose to the ground almost the entire time. She would love to go home with an active person who will take her on long walks often.

Brunhilda loves to use her nose

Brunhilda also enjoyed romping around the Enrichment Park. She poked at toys and watched me throw them, but wasn’t too interested in playing with any of them. Brunhilda participates in play group every day and loves being with the other dogs. She puts a smile on every volunteer’s face when we hear her coming. She’s a very sweet girl. Stop in soon to meet Brunhilda!

Brunhilda, summed up in one photo

Rascal the six-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a big, strong boy. He walks nicely on the leash for the most part, but if he decides he wants to go in a certain direction then that’s probably the direction you’re going to go in! He just doesn’t realize his own strength. Rascal enjoyed exploring all around the Enrichment Park. He sniffed at some toys but wasn’t interested in playing fetch on this particular outing.

Rascal has the cutest wrinkly forehead

Rascal loves getting his hips scratched. His whole back half wriggles and he looks up at you with a happy doggy smile. He’s a friendly boy and seems pretty good at coming to you when you call for him. Rascal has participated in a couple play groups and likes romping with the other dogs. He could also go to a home with children. Come by the shelter soon to say hello to Rascal!

Rascal unfortunately came out blurry in the rest of his photos because we got caught in some rain

Winston the two-year-old Border Collie/Australian Shepherd mix is looking for a special, understanding home. Winston has epilepsy and will probably need to be on medication for the rest of his life to prevent seizures. But he can absolutely still live a full and happy life! (My childhood dog was medicated for epilepsy and lived to be 11, with only a handful of seizures.) Winston is super smart. He already knows basic commands like “sit” and “shake” and could definitely learn more.

Winston is such a handsome, attentive boy

Winston loves playing with toys. He will happily chase after toys when you throw them, though he doesn’t always bring them back. Winston is a pretty good walking companion who only occasionally gets a burst of energy where he would rather run than walk. He’s an affectionate boy who likes to give doggy hugs. Winston gets along with other dogs and enjoys coming to play group. Come in soon to learn more about Winston!

Winston always has a knowing look

Chopper the one-year-old Labrador Retriever/Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix was adopted as a little puppy but recently returned for reasons unrelated to him. He’s not too happy about being back at the shelter and can be a little nervous when he first comes out of his kennel, but warms up quickly and likes getting pet. He’s an easy walking companion.

Chopper doing some exploring

Chopper enjoyed exploring around the off-leash yard and would come over to me when I knelt down to his level. He got more playful the longer he was out. Chopper sometimes joins play group and starts off with his tail tucked between his legs, but comes out of his shell after a bit and has made some good doggy friends. Chopper already has almost a year of experience living in a home, so he’s ready to settle in with his new forever family. If you think that might be you, come in soon to meet Chopper!

Chopper was much perkier by the end of our outing

Monty the three-year-old Chihuahua/Dachshund mix is a little bundle of energy. You haven’t seen zoomies until you’ve seen Monty sprinting around the Enrichment Park! It is too cute. Those little legs go much faster than you would expect. Even on our walk around the woodland preserve trail, Monty led the way and I almost had to jog to keep up with him.

Monty is too precious

Monty doesn’t mind being picked up and snuggled, but he would still prefer to walk on his own rather than be carried around. He especially enjoys playing with toys. Monty was sharing his kennel with another smaller dog who has since been adopted, and he has a big enough personality that he would probably get along with larger dogs too. Be sure to say hello to Monty on your next visit to the shelter!

Monty has the tiniest legs but biggest ears

I also saw Batman (Wombat), Carlos, Cocoa, Jupiter, Prince, and Turbo.

The first play group this week included Badger, Big Boy, Brunhilda, Carlos, Polly (who has just graduated from Level 2 of obedience training!), Prince, and Princess, as well as not-yet-profiled dogs Buck and Lola.

The second play group included Badger, Batman (Wombat), Brunhilda, Carlos, Chevy, Chopper, Jupiter, Pepper, Polly, Prince, Princess, Sirius, Titus, Turbo, and Winston, as well as not-yet-profiled dogs Bailey, Buck, Chestnut, Chili, Cornelius, Flower, Frosty, Garland, Hinkle, Keggy, Kylo, Lenny, Lola, Skippy, Spooky, Wednesday, and Yukon.

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® 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® Black and White and a Little Bit of Brown Dogs

You can find dogs of all colors at Orphans of the Storm® but this week I happened to walk mostly black-and-white ones!

Max the two-year-old Border Collie/Hound mix is super gentle. When I took him out of his kennel, he patiently waited for his leash to get put on. (When I took him out for play group a couple days later, he started jumping up and down in excitement when he realized it was his turn to come out–but was still easy to hook up.) Max mostly kept to himself when he was exploring the off-leash run, but came back to me every once in a while for a quick pat.

Max is such a sweetheart

Max is a great leash-walking companion. He didn’t pull at all, and walked at an easy pace. When I stopped to pet him during our walk, he gave me a couple doggy kisses. Max doesn’t pay much attention to dogs he passes on walks. He attends play groups and is very mellow with the other dogs, just sniffing hello but not actively playing too often. Come in soon to meet Max!

Max staying cool in the shade

Eddie the one-and-a-half-year-old Pomeranian mix looks like a baby arctic fox (in its summer coat). He can be a little skittish with new people and would prefer having a few minutes to get comfortable before you start petting him. But once he does feel comfortable, he particularly likes getting scratched on his hips and does a little dance when you scratch the right spot.

Eddie being attentive

Eddie likes to lead the way on walks but rarely pulls on the leash. He gets along with dogs his size and is currently sharing his kennel with four other little dogs. Eddie has participated in play groups and is also polite when sniffing dogs he passes on walks. This small pup is ready to find his loving forever home. Be sure to say hello to Eddie on your next visit to the shelter!

Eddie is a little ball of fluff

Leia the two-year-old Collie mix was very shy when she arrived at the shelter, but is coming out of her shell more and more as she makes new friends–both human and dog! Although Leia was nervous about going to play group the first few times, she is now a play group regular and enjoys frolicking with the other dogs.

Leia smiling for the camera

Leia walks nicely on the leash. She pauses to sniff every once in a while, but mostly goes at an even pace. Leia likes rolling around on her back when she finds a good spot for it (in this case, a damp spot hidden under woodchips that she pawed away). When she’s rolling around, she’ll happily lay still for a bit to get a nice belly rub. Come in soon to meet Leia!

Leia enjoying an afternoon roll

I also saw Barney and Reeco.

The play group I went to this week included Alec(k), Beatrix, Bo, Cheyenne (Shyanne), Cocoa, Delilah, Donny, Dunkin the Red, Elijah, Huckleberry, John Boy, Leia, Lucy, Maggie, Max, Polly, Quinn, Sasha, Tom, and Whizzer; as well as not-yet-profiled dogs Baby Girl, Calamity Jane, Honey, Rhett, and Sniffy.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Who Are Black and White and Cute All Over

If black and white are your preferred colors, there are plenty of dogs at Orphans of the Storm® now who meet that description! And, of course, there are lots of dogs in other shades who are super cute.

Basil the seven-year-old Border Collie mix arrived at the shelter with her brother, who has since been adopted. So Basil is ready for her turn now! Basil is a nice leash-walker, but likes to stop and smell the roses (and trees, and bushes, and grass). If you’re more of a meanderer than a power-walker, Basil would be a great walking companion for you.

Basil coming over to get pet

Basil enjoys having company and will come over to you when you kneel down to her level. She particularly seems to enjoy scratches on the side of her neck. Although Basil was originally living with her brother, she can be bark-y around some other dogs. Stop in soon to see if Basil is the pooch for you!

Basil showing off her big ears

Tom the three-year-old Labrador Retriever mix is looking for an active and fun home. This guy has plenty of energy and is looking for a buddy to expend it with! Tom would make a great jogging partner in particular. We ran most of the way around the woodland preserve trail and Tom only slowed down because I slowed down first.

Tom has a cute face

Tom is also one of those dogs who is happy to play fetch with himself. He’ll take a toy, shake it back and forth, fling it into the air, chase it, and repeat. Tom also likes to chase squirrels, though I didn’t let him get too close. He would do best in a cat-free home. Tom sometimes attends play group and has made friends with some female dogs, but still isn’t too fond of other males. If you’re looking for a new activity buddy, be sure to say hello to Tom!

Tom doesn’t mind a little snow

Duke the one-year-old Australian Cattle Dog mix is a sweet boy who likes to play. My first few pictures of him are just flashes of tail or paw, because Duke was romping around the Enrichment Park with glee. Duke is affectionate and likes to give doggy hugs or put his paws in your lap whenever he gets the opportunity.

Duke loves getting attention

Duke gets along with pretty much everybody. He likes other dogs and cats, and does well with older children. He likes sniffing and exploring during his walks, but doesn’t pull on the leash too much. Duke is barely out of puppyhood, so he has plenty to offer his new family. Come in soon to meet Duke!

Duke is a handsome boy

Prince the six-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix is a volunteer favorite who was returned after being adopted last year (you can read his original profile here). He was one of the Top Dog competitors last month and does an excellent job on the agility course. He already has some training and would be happy keep up with the mental and physical stimulation that agility provides.

Prince wondering if there’s a treat

Prince is a great walking companion. He stays close to his person’s side and doesn’t pull on the leash at all. He’s also an affectionate boy and will cover your face in gentle doggy kisses. In warmer weather, Prince enjoys splashing around in kiddie pools. Prince would do best as the only dog in his new home. If you’ve always wanted to try agility with your dog, be sure to meet Prince! UPDATE AUGUST 2019: Prince is currently being fostered at a volunteer’s home, so if you are interested in meeting him, please contact the shelter in advance of coming in.

Prince is happy to join people on the bench or couch

James the three-year-old Labrador Retriever mix is a smart cookie. He already knows some basic commands like “sit” and will do them without a treat (though he did jump up in excitement when he thought my camera was food). James also walks nicely on the leash and will slow down if you ask him to.

James enjoys his walks

James would also be eager to learn new tricks. For example, he went over the A-frame in the Enrichment Park twice! All I had to do was tap the bottom of the ramp with my hand and up he went. Maybe there will be more agility fun in the future for him and his new family. James is looking to be the only dog in his new home. Come in soon to say hello to James!

James will be an agility master in no time

Hiker the two-year-old Australian Cattle Dog mix gave me a doggy hug as soon as I took him out of his kennel. Hiker is a snuggler and put his front paws in my lap whenever I knelt down to his level or sat on a bench. He loves getting pet. But he also has plenty of energy! The majority of my pictures of him are white-and-brown blurs.

Hiker likes to cuddle

Hiker would love to have a fenced-in yard where he can run and play. He likes to chase after toys but hasn’t quite mastered the part of “fetch” where he brings the toy back. Once he gets his initial burst of energy out of his system, Hiker settles into being a nice walking companion. He’s a happy guy who seems to like other dogs he’s met. Be sure to say hello to Hiker on your next visit to the shelter!

Hiker standing at attention

Honey the two-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix is new to the shelter and still pretty shy. She currently seems a little more comfortable with women than men, but our friendly male volunteers should be able to help her with that! Honey isn’t too eager to come out for walks at first, but once she gets on the trail she ends up leading the way.

Honey does a tiny blep

Honey kept looking over her shoulder at me during our walk, like “Just checking we’re still on the same page.” She walks at a quick pace but doesn’t mind stopping every once in a while so you can pet her. She’ll also pause for the occasional sniff. This sweet girl gets more comfortable the longer you spend with her. Give Honey a chance to get to know you!

Honey says, “Keep up!”

I also saw Apollo, Barney, Cooper, Dusty, Maggie Mae, Nash, YoYo, and Zeke.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs on a Rainy Fall Day

It was a cool and damp weekend, but that didn’t stop the dogs at Orphans of the Storm® from coming out and romping in the rain! (My camera didn’t handle the rain as well as the dogs did, though, so apologies for the rough/blurry photos this week.)

Also, mark your calendar for Saturday, October 27! Orphans of the Storm® is hosting a “Top Dog Competition” in the Enrichment Park. Whizzer, Elijah, Prince, Brutus, John Boy, Reeco, and Kacy & Oliver will be competing for Top Dog–and for the hearts of potential adopters!–by showing off their skills. It will be a fun time for all!

Sasha the five-year-old Irish Wolfhound mix is nice and patient. She politely stayed still while I put her leash on. Then, when I was having trouble opening the gate to the Enrichment Park, Sasha just stood by my side and waited until we could finally get in. She rarely pulled on the leash when we made our way around the woodland preserve, too.

Sasha sniffing

Sasha can sometimes keep to herself and likes to explore at her own pace, but she will soon come over to get pet. She has a serious look, with her bushy eyebrows and beard, but the rest of her fur is surprisingly fluffy and soft to pet. Sasha would prefer to be the only dog in an adult home. If that sounds like your situation, come in soon to meet Sasha!

Sasha says, “Okay, I’m ready to get out of the rain now.”

Dusty the three-year-old Labrador Retriever mix was super excited when he realized it was his turn to come out for a walk. He gave me a doggy hug right away, and then we were off. Dusty is a playful and energetic pooch. As soon as he was let off the leash in the Enrichment Park, he zoomed around and around. Dusty would definitely love to have a fenced-in yard to call his own!

Dusty investigating the tree trunk

Dusty is always happy to take a break from his running to snuggle and give more doggy hugs. He has such a cute face! Once he got his initial burst of energy out of his system, we hit the trail and Dusty did a pretty good job walking on the leash. Dusty isn’t too fond of other dogs, so he would prefer to be the only one in his new home. Be sure to say hello to Dusty on your next visit!

Dusty has the cutest forward-facing ears

Fluffy the twelve-year-old Border Collie mix is super easygoing. Other than his calm nature and gray face, though, you wouldn’t really think of him as a senior! Fluffy enjoys spending time outside by exploring the yard and going for walks. He is a great walking companion who doesn’t pull on the leash at all. Fluffy is also affectionate. He likes getting pet and will give you plenty of gentle doggy kisses.

Fluffy is not exactly the most fluffy

Fluffy seems to get along with other dogs. He politely sniffed and wagged his tail at Jack through the fence. When we passed by the toy bin on our way back inside, Fluffy stopped and stuck his nose in to search for the perfect toy. Hopefully he will have a toy bin to call his own in his new home. Don’t let Fluffy’s age deter you from getting to know him. Come in soon to meet sweet Fluffy!

Fluffy says, “Let me at ’em!”

Katfish the three-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix is a very good boy. He knows his basic commands and walks great on the leash. He pretty much heels on your left side without even being asked. When Katfish is greeting someone new, he sort of ducks down at first and wags his tail like, “Who, me? I’m nice and small!” (even though he is not small). After that, he’s all about the snuggles.

Katfish is lovey-dovey

Katfish loves people and gets along with children, though we recommend he go to a home with kids 5 years and older so he doesn’t accidentally knock a smaller one over. Katfish is not a fan of other dogs or animals, though, so he would do best as the only pet in his new home. Passing another dog is also the only time Katfish starts pulling on the leash, and he can be strong. Katfish also has some allergies that his new family needs to be aware of. Stop by soon to say hello to Katfish!

Had to borrow an official Katfish portrait since the rest of mine didn’t come out!

Reggie the three-year-old Australian Shepherd mix is super sweet and loves people. He loves people so much, though, that he gets extreme separation anxiety when he’s left home alone. Because of this, he has been in and out of several homes already. Reggie is looking for an active home familiar with his breed, with a person who is home the vast majority of the time and who can help train him to feel more comfortable on his own.

Reggie is super handsome

Reggie is very affectionate. He’ll happily try to climb into your lap or lean against you, and give you plenty of doggy kisses while you pet him. Reggie walks great on the leash and is very attentive to the person walking him. He likes toys and can play fetch with himself! Reggie needs a dedicated owner so he can finally learn to trust that he won’t be left behind. If that sounds like you, come in soon to meet Reggie!

Reggie loves toys

I also saw Jasmine (who is so sweet and snuggly), Murphy, Nash, Phantom, and Trent.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Enjoying the Outdoors

It was a lovely day to be at Orphans of the Storm®, and the dogs were all eager to spend some time in the fresh air too! Between the woodland preserve walking trail and the Enrichment Park, there was lots of romping, rolling, and sniffing to do.

Princess the seven-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix found herself at the shelter because her owner passed away. Her years of experience living in a home means she’s all set to go home with you! Princess is a great walking companion who doesn’t pull on the leash at all. She greets all people she sees with a wagging tail and is eager to get pet.

Princess enjoying her walk

Princess is an affectionate girl who likes to give doggy kisses. She will sit at your feet and give you a happy doggy smile while you scratch her ears or under her chin. Princess is also willing to give you a little nudge if she wants you to keep petting her. This sweet girl deserves to be treated like a princess! Stop by to say hello to Princess soon!

Princess knows you should stop and smell the roses (or grass)

Shadow the ten-month-old Border Collie mix gave me a doggy hug as soon as he came out of his kennel. He loves to play with toys and is even happy to play fetch with himself–no human required! Shadow romped around the Enrichment Park and then flopped over to get a belly rub when he needed a breather. He has a tickly spot right on his ribs. Shadow walks pretty nicely on the leash, considering he’s still a puppy. He did have a couple bursts of energy where he wanted to run, but mostly stayed just a few steps ahead of me.

Shadow is a real cutie

Shadow hasn’t had much opportunity for training or socializing yet. He doesn’t do great with other dogs, cats, or children. He can also get possessive of his food and toys. But since he’s still a puppy, these can all be worked on with the right owner who is ready to give Shadow the training he needs. Border Collies are smart, active dogs who do best with smart, active owners. If that sounds like you, come in soon to meet Shadow!

Shadow with his toy

Maggie the seven-year-old Treeing Walker Coonhound is pretty easygoing. She walks nicely on the leash and either has her nose on the ground or pointed high up in the air, so she can catch as many scents possible. Maggie can be a little stubborn when she wants to go one direction and you want to go the other, but kneeling down to her level and petting her usually gets her moving again.

Maggie’s cute little blop

Maggie may not have had the easiest time before and has a couple dings in her soft, floppy ears to show for it. But that hasn’t stopped her from being a sweetie! Maggie gets along with some dogs, but not all. If you’re considering adding her to a home that already has dogs, she would probably do best with dogs that are her size or larger. Maggie would also prefer living with adults or a family with teenaged children. Say hi to Maggie on your next visit to the shelter!

Maggie wants all the smells

Tiny the six-year-old Husky mix has a big heart. He gave me multiple doggy hugs while we were out. Whenever I knelt down to his level, Tiny came right over and put his head in my lap so I could pet him more. Tiny walks nicely on the leash and is very attentive to his person. He does like to go at a quicker pace, but doesn’t pull at all.

Tiny enjoying a scratch on the back

Tiny is a handsome boy and has one brown eye and one blue eye. Part of the fur by his tail had to be shaved, but it will grow back as fluffy as the rest of him! Tiny seems to like water and was happy to get hosed off on a hot day. He gets along with children but isn’t a fan of other animals and would do best as the only pet in his new home. When we passed other dogs on the trail, though, he barely gave them a second glance and just kept walking. Come in soon to see if Tiny is the dog for you!

Tiny looking regal

I also saw Apollo, Bella, Big Boy and Mojo (who are actually pretty easy for one person to walk simultaneously), Brutus, Cass and Crowley, Chevy, Clarinet, and Quinn.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Looking for Love This Labor Day Weekend

Orphans of the Storm® will be closed on Monday for Labor Day, but open the regular 11am-5pm hours on Saturday and Sunday. Enjoy the long weekend by welcoming a new dog into your home!

Chevy the seven-year-old Terrier mix is all about the cuddles. As soon as you kneel down to his level, he comes right over and plops down next to you. He also has no problem being picked up and actually seems to enjoy being carried more than he enjoys walking on the leash (though for exercise purposes, he should still walk more than he’s carried). Chevy is a little shy and nervous, so being close to a person is comforting for him.

Chevy is a little cutiepie

Chevy did a little bit of sniffing while we were out but could use some more encouragement when it comes to walking on the leash. Chevy was sharing his kennel with another dog who has since been adopted, so he could go to a home with or without another dog. If you’re looking for a sweet little cuddle-bug, come in soon to meet Chevy!

Chevy says, “I have walked far enough.”

Maggie Mae the two-year-old Labrador Retriever mix is one of the most affectionate dogs at the shelter right now. She greets every person as if they were her long-lost best friend. Maggie Mae gives the most human-like doggy hugs I have ever experienced. She literally wraps her front paws around your waist and will stand like that as long as you let her. She will also cover your face in doggy kisses whenever she’s given the opportunity, and will try to climb into your lap when you sit down.

Maggie Mae is always ready for a cuddle and a kiss

Maggie Mae is active and playful. She can pull a bit on the leash when she first comes out of her kennel, and prefers to walk at a quick pace. She would love a yard to call her own and have plenty of squeaky toys to play with. While Maggie Mae loves people more than anything, she is not a fan of other dogs and would like to be the only dog in her new home. Be sure to say hello to Maggie Mae on your next visit to the shelter!

Maggie Mae is a smiley pooch

Cooper the eight-year-old Border Collie mix excitedly jumped up and down when he realized it was his turn to come out, but then stayed perfectly still when it was actually time to put his leash on. Cooper is a sweet boy who gave me a doggy hug as soon as he came out of his kennel, and gave me several other doggy hugs during the rest of our outing.

Cooper is a good-looking guy

Cooper may be bordering on “senior,” but he doesn’t act like it. He zipped around the Enrichment Park, went a few steps up the A-frame before hopping off, and splashed around the puppy pool. Cooper walks pretty well on the leash, though he does like to weave back and forth to pick up more scents. He isn’t too fond of other dogs, so Cooper would do best as the only dog in his new home. If you’re looking for a smart dog to do all sorts of activities with, come in soon to meet Cooper!

It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s Cooper flying through the Enrichment Park!

I also saw Big Boy and Mojo, Dunkin (who gave me a doggy hug as a hello), Harley, Jasmine, Monte, Nash, Thunder, and Whizzer.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Are Getting Enriched

Last weekend was the grand opening and dedication of Orphans of the Storm®’s new Jim Farmer Memorial Enrichment Park. Diamond (Riley) helped with the ribbon-cutting, as pictured below, and Elijah, Whizzer, and Brutus showed off their agility skills for the crowd. You can read more about the park’s creation and purpose in the Chicago Tribune. It’s an exciting addition that many dogs will love!

The cutting of the ribbon

Daisy the four-year-old Labrador Retriever mix is a super snuggly and affectionate girl. As soon as I took her out of her kennel, she sat right at my feet so I could pet her. When we were in the off-leash run, Daisy spent most of her time by my side. She put her front paws in my lap and gave me lots of doggy kisses. Daisy might be a little bigger than the usual “lapdog,” but she doesn’t see why size should stop her from enjoying her person’s lap!

Daisy’s tail is constantly wagging

Daisy is currently sharing her kennel with Marnie. So, she gets along with other dogs and could go to a home with or without another dog. She does get a little jealous if you stop petting her and start petting another dog, though, but that’s why we have two hands–to pet two dogs simultaneously! Be sure to say hello to Daisy on your next visit to the shelter!

Daisy is most happy when getting attention

Bailey the seven-year-old Boston Terrier mix and Percy the nine-year-old Shih-Tzu mix are a bonded pair looking for a forever home together. And they are the cutest little duo! Bailey and Percy are super easy walking companions and you can even hold both of their leashes in the same hand without worrying about them pulling in opposite directions.

Percy and Bailey are happy to catch some rays

Bailey is known for his spunk and sass. He can be talkative when he wants to be, but was quiet for the most part during our walk around the woodland preserve. He did turn around at one point and yap at Percy to keep moving. Bailey recently had one eye removed, but he doesn’t even seem to notice that it’s gone and gets around just fine.

Bailey knows when to pose for a photo

Percy has a constant smile on his furry little face. He liked to take the lead on our walk, but he also liked to stop and sniff more often. Percy has a tickle-y spot on his left side and will start kicking his back leg when you scratch there. He’s an easy-going guy who likes staying close to Bailey.

Percy is too precious

Bailey and Percy have been together for five years and are best friends. If you have space in your home and your heart for two little cuties, come in soon to meet Bailey and Percy!

Percy and Bailey on the move

Jack the eight-month-old Labrador Retriever/Brittany mix is a handsome boy. His dark-ringed eyes will surely grab your attention when you walk past his kennel. Jack enjoyed romping around the off-leash run and was very attentive when it came to watching what was happening on the other side of the fence. With all the commotion from the Enrichment Park preparations, Jack was more interested in that than playing with toys.

Jack at attention

Jack walks surprisingly well on the leash, considering he’s just a puppy. He did have one spurt where he wanted to play tug-of-war with the leash, but he dropped it quickly and we continued on. Jack also loves rolling around in the tall grasses, kicking all four legs in the air. If you’re looking for a fun puppy to join your family, come in soon to say hello to Jack!

Jack with his freckled nose

Sullivan the Border Collie mix is always eager to come out for a walk. Sullivan has springs for legs and jumps up and down when he realizes it’s his turn to walk. He can pull on the leash a bit at first due to his eagerness, but he settles down pretty soon after. Sullivan prefers walking at a quicker pace, but didn’t pull once we were on the woodland preserve trail.

Sullivan had his photo shoot before the trees and grass turned green

Sullivan loves to sniff. He often had his nose to the ground during our walk. Sullivan was also intrigued by the camera and came right over to investigate whenever I took mine out. Sullivan isn’t a fan of other dogs, so he would do best as the only dog in his new home. He has been returned to the shelter twice, so an experienced dog-owner who can give Sullivan the mental and physical exercise he needs would be best for him. If that sounds like you, stop in to meet Sullivan!

Walks are one of Sullivan’s favorite things!

I also saw Bella, Nash, and Quinn.