Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Want to Spring into a New Home

With the weather getting warmer, now is a great time to adopt a dog from Orphans of the Storm® who will join you on nice walks and quality time in the yard!

Sugar the five-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is ready to be your companion for outdoor activities. She loves going for walks and prefers to lead the way by keeping a brisk pace, so she may do better with a harness. Sugar also likes to spend time in the yard, where she sometimes is interested in playing with toys but sometimes gets distracted by everything else going on around her. Sugar is as sweet as her name implies–she loves to cuddle and will give doggy hugs and kisses. She joined me on the bench and especially likes getting her sides and chest scratched.

Sugar is always smiling

Sugar is working on her doggy socialization skills in play group and has made a couple doggy friends, but for now she is looking to be the only pet in her new home. She also gets overexcited when she’s in the yard and sees another dog walk by, and she may try to jump over the fence–so if Sugar goes to a home with a fenced-in yard, she’ll need to be closely supervised or kept on a leash. Sugar already knows some commands, like “sit” and “paw,” and would be eager to learn more. She loves treats! Make an appointment at the shelter soon to meet Sugar!

Sugar enjoying the sunshine

Amber the one-year-old Shepherd mix is super smart and very treat-motivated. She already knows “sit,” sometimes comes when called, and will do an almost perfect heel with 100% attention on you if she thinks you have a treat. She’ll poke at your hands and pockets if she thinks you’re holding out on her! But when you show her you have no more treats, she’s happy to lead the way on walks and get snuggles. Amber is just barely out of puppyhood, so she still needs to learn that not everyone likes to get doggy hugs. But if you do like doggy hugs, Amber is your girl.

Amber has the happiest smile

Amber likes spending time in the yard and enjoys following her nose around to explore. She poked her nose in the toy bin and found a stuffed squeaky that she liked and carried around for a bit. Amber isn’t a fan of other dogs, so she’s looking for a home where she can be the only one. She loves people, though, and greeted everyone we passed during our walk with a wagging tail and a lick on the hand. If you’re looking for a young, active dog to keep you always entertained, come in soon to meet Amber!

Amber doing what she does best: doggy hugs

Fox the three-year-old Hound mix gets off to an energetic start when he first comes out of his kennel, but he slows down the longer he’s out and about. He is truly in his element on the trail–his nose leads the way, and he loves poking around in the bushes and taller grasses to find all of the most interesting smells. If you like visiting forest preserves and other outdoor areas, Fox would love to join you!

Fox is so handsome

Fox also understands the importance of cuddling and is happy to take a break from his exploring to get some pets. He especially likes getting his hips scratched and will start leaning towards whichever side you’re scratching. He joined me on the bench a few times and gave me some doggy kisses. Fox can be friends with pretty much anybody. He has a long list of doggy friends that he likes playing with during play group, so he could go to a home with another dog. He could also go to a home with cats and children 10 or older. If you’re looking for a family pooch, come by the shelter to meet Fox!

Fox eager to be on the trail

Stewie the four-year-old Catahoula Leopard Dog mix has the prettiest blue eyes that especially stand out against his white fur. He loves to be close to people and wants to greet everyone with a doggy hug, and he’ll happily continue to stand up on his hind legs while you scratch his neck and chest. Stewie gives lots of doggy kisses and snuffles around your face and ears, and either joined me on the bench and leaned against me or put his front paws in my lap when I sat down. He sometimes jumps up on you when he gets excited, but he settled down the longer we were out, so he’ll probably be mellower once he’s comfortable in his forever home.

Stewie about to jump up for a doggy hug

Stewie is a known fence-jumper, even if a person is in the yard with him, so he will need to be closely supervised or kept on a leash if he goes to a home with a fenced-in yard. Stewie enjoys participating in play group and has made several doggy friends, so he could go to a home with or without another dog–but he would probably do best with a dog that has the same energy level as him. If you’re looking for a sweet and playful guy, visit the shelter soon to meet Stewie!

Stewie says, “Whee!”

I also saw Reina.

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

If you’re looking for a dog who likes to play hard and then snuggle hard, Orphans of the Storm® has the right dogs for you!

Hunter the two-year-old Irish Wolfhound mix is very handsome. I’ve been wanting to walk him for a while, but he’s popular with all of the volunteers so usually someone else gets to him before I can! Even though Hunter is a big boy, he’s very gentle and even skittish sometimes with loud noises or sudden movements. (For example, when a small little fluffball barked at Hunter from its kennel, poor Hunter jumped and accidentally ran into a wheelbarrow.)

Hunter enjoying a hip scratch

Hunter is a great walking companion. Despite his size, he doesn’t pull on the leash or try to lead the way. He just goes at an easy pace right by your side. Hunter enjoyed exploring around the Enrichment Park and followed his nose to get all the smells. When he finished his tour of the yard, he came right to me so I could pet him. Hunter is looking to be the only dog in his new home. Come by the shelter soon to meet Hunter!

Hunter has the cutest wrinkles between his ears

Daffodil the one-year-old American Staffordshire Terrier mix is a sweet, snuggly girl. Every time I knelt down to her level, she came bounding over and cuddled up next to me while I pet her. Daffodil has the best, happiest doggy smile and will smile at you the entire time you’re petting her. She also likes to give doggy kisses. One of Daffodil’s favorite things, though, is water. She loves jumping into the puppy pool and lays right in the middle to cool off. Then she’ll come and snuggle with you some more!

Daffodil being smiley

Daffodil prefers hanging out in the yard rather than walking, and can sometimes resist going for a walk. If you start to jog for a few steps, though, the momentum gets her going and she walks well. Daffodil is looking for a home where she can be the only pet, and would probably do best with an adult-only home as well. Daffodil just moved to a foster home, so if you are interested in meeting her, please email fosterdogadopt@orphansofthestorm.org and they will set you up!

Daffodil has the right idea on a warm day

Meredith the two-year-old Catahoula Leopard Dog is a big fan of cuddling. She literally sits on your feet (not next to, but on) and looks up at you so you have no choice but to pet her. When I knelt down to her level, she came right over and leaned against me so I could pet her even more. She also likes to give doggy kisses. And when Meredith is happy, her entire body wags from side to side along with her tail.

The happy face you could come home to every day if you adopt Meredith!

Meredith loves playing with toys. She’ll happily carry one around in her mouth while she romps around the yard and plays a bit of fetch with herself. She’s also learning how to play fetch with people, but she doesn’t always bring the toy right back. Meredith likes to lead the way on walks and moves at a brisk pace, but doesn’t pull if you’re keeping up with her. Every single person we passed during our walk stopped and exclaimed over how pretty she is, so she’s sure to get compliments from her future neighbors. Be sure to say hello to Meredith on your next visit to the shelter!

Meredith taking a break from her toy

Charlie Daniels the five-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a happy, playful boy. When I came to get him from his kennel, he gave me a quiet “woof” to let me know he was ready to go and then gave me a doggy hug right away. Charlie Daniels is great at snuggling and sat next to me on the bench, where he gave me doggy kisses while I pet him. He particularly enjoys hip scratches. Charlie Daniels is a nice leash-walking companion overall, but can occasionally pull if there’s a particular direction he wants to go.

Charlie Daniels loved this squeaky cow

Charlie Daniels loves toys and especially loves playing fetch and tug-of-war. He brought a toy straight to me and stood in front of me until I took it. We played tug for a few seconds, then he dropped it so I could throw it for him. Rinse and repeat! Charlie Daniels could go to a home with or without another dog, and he could also go to a home with children. If you’re looking for a new furry family member, come in soon to meet Charlie Daniels!

Charlie Daniels trotting along

I also saw Emma (who basically fell asleep in my lap while I rubbed her belly) and Princess (who just wanted to spend the whole time snuggling).

Orphans of the Storm® Is Hoping to Empty the Shelter

This is a big weekend for Orphans of the Storm®!

Firstly, Orphans of the Storm® is excited to be one of 125+ shelters participating in BISSELL Pet Foundation’s nationwide Empty the Shelters adoption event this Saturday, October 12! Dogs and cats 6 months and older will have their adoption fees waived. If you missed Clear the Shelters back in August, now is another great opportunity to bring home a furry friend.

Secondly, Orphans of the Storm® is happy to be returning to the Chicago Botanic Garden’s Spooky Pooch Parade on Sunday, October 13 from 11am-1pm! Several of our adoptable dogs will be dressed up in Halloween costumes, strutting their stuff. Be sure to come out and cheer them on!

There are many new dogs for you to meet on your next visit to the shelter too.

Titan the five-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a very big boy, but really just a big baby! He loves being doted on and will happily stand by your side or lean against your legs for as long as you keep petting him. Titan greeted me with a very waggy tail and was eager to go on a walk. He prefers to walk at a quicker pace but doesn’t pull too much–unless he sees a squirrel or bird, and then you better hold on! Titan can definitely be strong when he wants to be.

Titan spotted a squirrel in the tree

Titan enjoys sniffing around and exploring when he’s off-leash in the yard. He has been in one play group so far and did well with the other dogs, though he was equally interested in hanging out with the humans. Titan has a ginormous head that he will nudge you with when he wants some more pets. Come in soon to meet Titan!

Titan is a handsome guy

Hazel the two-year-old and Nutella the four-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mixes are a bonded pair that are looking to be adopted together. A couple of the benefits of adopting a bonded pair are that they already have a built-in friend to feel comfortable with as they adjust to their new home, and they also have a built-in playmate to keep them company when you leave the house. Plus, Hazel and Nutella look super cute when they cuddle during naptime!

Hazel is a sweetheart

Hazel is the slightly more shy and mellow of the two. She can pull a bit on the leash when she first comes out of her kennel, but settles into being a nice walking companion pretty quickly. Hazel particularly enjoys getting her chin scratched and looks at you with such sweetness and gratefulness. She spent most of her time in the Enrichment Park slowly sniffing around.

Hazel watching her buddy

Nutella is more outwardly affectionate and playful. He likes chasing after toys but wasn’t too interested in picking them up or bringing them back. Nutella happily romped around the Enrichment Park but often came back to me for more snuggles. When I sat down on the bench, he put his front paws in my lap so I could pet him more. He pulls on the leash during walks a bit more than Hazel does, but not too much.

Don’t let Nutella’s serious face fool you–he’s a goofball

Hazel and Nutella both attend play groups and get along with the other dogs. Nutella engages in actively playing more so than Hazel. This is a sweet, happy pair ready to join a sweet, happy home! If you have the space for two, be sure to say hello to Hazel and Nutella!

Nutella exploring the Enrichment Park

Kado the one-year-old Labrador Retriever mix was a little wary of people when he first arrived at the shelter, but has already come a long way! Now he is quite snuggly and will put his front paws in your lap and give you plenty of doggy kisses. There are still some times when he can get nervous and skittish, though, so we think Kado would do best in an adult-only home or a home with older children/teenagers.

Kado hopped on the bench and politely sat without being asked

Kado is a play group rockstar and participates basically every day. He’s gotten along with every dog he’s met so far, so he could go to a home with or without another dog. Kado likes to lead the way on walks and moves at a quick pace, but doesn’t pull as long as you keep up with him. He enjoys chasing after toys and nibbled on a couple that were in the Enrichment Park. Come in soon to meet Kado!

Kado was a little camera-shy

Toes the two-year-old Labrador Retriever/Catahoula Leopard Dog mix has pretty much every good quality you could want in a dog. He walks great on the leash, he is friendly and affectionate, he gets along with other dogs of all sizes, and he plays nicely with toys. Toes is a play group rockstar and participates every day. Also, we walked the whole way around the woodland preserve trail next to another volunteer and a tiny Chihuahua and Toes was the perfect gentleman.

One toy is not enough for Toes

Toes will put his front paws in your lap and gives you doggy kisses when you kneel down to his level. He’s also content to sit in your lap and get lots of pets. Toes enjoys playing fetch with stuffed toys. He likes to play a bit of tug-of-war before you throw the toy, but he always drops it without being asked when he’s ready to fetch again. Toes is the total package. Be sure to say hello to him on your next visit to the shelter!

Toes’ face of contentment

Kira the one-year-old Labrador Retriever mix is super snuggly. She gave me a doggy hug as soon as she came out of her kennel and wasn’t even interested in walking! She just wanted to cuddle. Kira joined me on the bench and loved getting her ears and sides scratched. When I stopped petting her, she reached out and poked me with her front paw to let me know she wasn’t ready for me to stop yet. (I obliged, of course.)

Kira’s happy face

Kira is an excellent leash-walking companion. She doesn’t pull at all and walks at a nice, easy pace. Kira regularly attends play group and doesn’t mind the company of other dogs. She is not a fan of cats, however, so she should go to a cat-free home. Kira would also do best in an adult-only home. If that sounds like you, come in soon to meet Kira!

Kira has a super fluffy tail

Bison the four-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix is very attentive to his person. He looked at me frequently as we made our way around the woodland preserve trail, and I always responded by telling him what a good boy he is. Bison prefers to walk at a quick pace, but doesn’t really pull on the leash. He happily joined me on the bench for a break.

Bison has fun ears

Bison occasionally attends play groups, and he generally does better in smaller groups with mostly female dogs. Bison has a number of playmates that he particularly enjoys romping with, but some dogs that he isn’t as fond of. When Bison has the Enrichment Park all to himself, he likes to run a couple laps and then come back to his person for more pets. Stop by the shelter soon to meet Bison!

Bison about to jump on the bench

I also saw Blue and Rachel (who greeted me with a happy doggy hug).

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Hoping Spring Is Just Around the Corner

There’s only a little bit of snow left around the grounds of Orphans of the Storm®, and the dogs and people are hoping it won’t stick around much longer!

Dumplin’ the one-year-old Catahoula Leopard Dog mix is a real sweetheart. She can be a little shy and skittish, particularly when she’s off-leash in the yard and there’s another dog on the other side of the fence, but she loves going for walks. Dumplin’ is actually very playful when she’s on the leash and does little hops and twirls when she’s particularly happy. She is a nice walking companion and doesn’t pull much at all.

Dumplin’ was just a little nervous at first

Dumplin’ is an affectionate pup. She likes to snuggle and will lean against your legs while you pet her. She’s also happy to give gentle doggy kisses. Dumplin’ put her front paws up on the bench next to me so I could pet her more. She has pretty coloring and bright blue eyes, so she’s sure to grab your attention as you walk through the kennels. Come in soon to see if Dumplin’ is the dog for you!

But Dumplin’ loves being close to her person!

Phoenix the two-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix is a happy girl. She wags her tail so hard that her entire body wiggles back and forth. Phoenix loves getting attention and is very affectionate. She gives doggy hugs and doggy kisses. Phoenix joined me on the bench and sat as close to me as she could without actually being in my lap.

Phoenix never strayed too far from me

Phoenix is generally a good walking companion on the leash, but she does have the occasional burst of energy where she would rather run than walk. Phoenix has participated in a number of play groups, so she could probably go to a home with or without another dog. Many volunteers think she’s the absolute cutest. Be sure to say hello to Phoenix on your next visit to the shelter!

Phoenix is ready to be your TV-watching buddy

Diesel (Jesse) the six-year-old Coonhound/Catahoula Leopard Dog mix is an easy-going guy and an ideal walking companion. I got stuck on some ice (I thought the woodland preserve trail thawed out more than it had) and Diesel patiently stood still and waited until I got my bearings again before moving on. He doesn’t pull on the leash at all, and walks at a nice pace with the occasional stop to sniff.

Diesel has the most unique markings

Diesel is a good cuddle buddy. He will gladly stand right next to you as long as you keep petting him, and might nudge you if you stop before he’s ready! Diesel has gone to a couple of play groups and gotten along with dogs of both high and low energy levels. This sweet boy is ready to find his home sweet home. Come in soon to say hello to Diesel!

Diesel is a lovey-dovey

Roscoe the three-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix is friendly with people and dogs alike. He loves going to play group and tried to pull me in the direction of the play group area instead of going for a walk around the woodland preserve. He’s more of the “rough and tumble” type, so he might be a little much for low-key dogs but great for active dogs.

Roscoe is a handsome boy

Roscoe likes getting pet and particularly enjoys a good scratch under his chin. He enjoys sniffing and exploring in the yard. Roscoe can pull on the leash when there’s a particular direction he wants to go, and sometimes would rather run than walk. If you’re looking for an active new friend, be sure to come in and meet Roscoe!

Roscoe says, “Yup, that’s the spot!”

Marley the one-year-old Shepherd mix still has plenty of puppy spunk. She absolutely loves having the freedom to run in a big yard and was flying around the Enrichment Park. When she’s on the leash, though, she’s actually quite calm and makes for a nice walking buddy. Her tail was up and wagging during our entire walk.

Marley is such a pretty girl

Marley is a snuggler. She likes to give doggy kisses and tried her best to climb into my lap. She likes to lean against you while you pet her side. Marley had a short playdate with Jack but was playing a little rough, so she might do best as the only dog in her new home or with a dog who can keep her in check. Stop by the shelter soon to meet Marley!

Marley says, “Oh, hello there!”

I also saw Barney, Big Boy and Mojo (who are no longer sharing a kennel but enjoy spending time in the yard together), Blue, and Cheyenne (Shyanne).

And I was part of two play groups this week, which included the participants Gia (Pippa), Hobbs, Loki, Lolabell, Lucy, Maya, Quinn, Ruth, Tyson, and Whizzer one day and Brutus, Elijah, Gracie, Huckleberry, John Boy, Luna, Peepers, Sadie, Sasha, and Wombat the second day.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Who Are Happy to Give You Lots of Kisses

Firstly, the Orphans of the Storm® Annual Benefit Dinner is just a month away! Mark your calendar for Tuesday, April 9 at 5:30 p.m. Get the details here and then call the shelter directly at 847-945-0235 to RSVP!

Secondly, it was my lucky day because all of the new dogs I met were particularly affectionate and so much fun to be with!

Luna the one-year-old Beagle/Spaniel mix spent some time in a foster home before coming to the shelter, so that means she already has experience living in a home. Her foster mom says that Luna gets along with other dogs and did well with visitors. She also says that Luna enjoys cuddling on the couch, which I could have easily guessed because Luna kept climbing into my lap and giving me doggy kisses!

Luna being playful

Luna does a pretty good job walking on the leash, but every once in a while she gets a puppy spurt of energy and wants to run rather than walk. She politely sniffed Jack on the other side of the fence and enjoyed exploring the off-leash run. Luna is hoping for a home that will spoil her with lots of toys and a nice yard to play in. Come in soon to see if Luna is the puppy for you!

Luna says, “Yes, hello, have you met my friend Jack?”

Gracie the two-year-old Labrador Retriever/Staffordshire Bull Terrier (or maybe some Weimaraner, based on her coloring) mix is a lot of fun. We spent some time in the Enrichment Park, where Gracie had a great time chasing after toys and proudly carrying around a tennis ball. Gracie is also super snuggly. She put her front paws in my lap whenever she got the opportunity and covered my face in doggy kisses.

Gracie positively glows!

Gracie gets along with other dogs and has participated in a play group, which involved lots of bouncing around and play-bowing, even with dogs who are much bigger than she is. Gracie walks nicely on the leash and will be a good walking companion around the neighborhood. Be sure to say hello to Gracie on your next visit to the shelter!

Gracie loves tennis balls

Sadie the three-year-old Mountain Cur mix is a sweet, happy girl. She genuinely knows how to smile and her tail is almost constantly wagging. Sadie gives people a friendly greeting whether she knows them well or not. She is very cuddly and will happily lean against you while you pet her, or attempt to climb into your lap. Sadie gives very enthusiastic doggy kisses too.

Sadie smiling in the sunshine

Sadie has a little bit of a limp (she appears to be missing a toe on one of her front paws), but it doesn’t slow her down at all. She walks nicely on the leash and is happy to lead the way just a couple steps ahead of her person. Sadie is looking for an adults-only home where she can be the only dog. If that sounds like your situation, be sure to come in and meet Sadie!

Sadie is happy-go-lucky

Irwin the two-year-old Catahoula Leopard Dog mix is a very handsome boy. Literally every volunteer and customer we passed had to stop and tell him how pretty he is. Irwin is a great walking companion and rarely pulls on the leash. He was mostly interested in sniffing and exploring along the woodland preserve trail.

Irwin wanted a better look at the dogs on the other side of the fence

Irwin is currently sharing his kennel with another dog and politely sniffed the dogs on the other side of the fence with his tail wagging, so he could go to a home with or without another dog. Irwin likes getting pet, particularly on the side of his neck, and will stay by your side while you pet him. Stop in soon to say hello to Irwin!

Irwin enjoys his walks

I also saw Apollo, Barney, Big Boy, Carlos, Carson, Claire (Clarinet), Huckleberry, Lolabell, Mojo, Pony Boy, Tom, and Vanilla.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Hoping 2019 Is Their Year to Find a Home

2018 was a happy year for the 1,075 dogs and 823 cats who were adopted and went to their furever homes! There are still plenty of dogs at Orphans of the Storm® who are waiting for their new families to find them, and some have been waiting longer than others. At the beginning of each year, I always like to make a special note of the long-timers who could use an extra boost in attention to help make this year the year they finally get to go home. The dogs listed below have been at Orphans of the Storm® for one year or longer. Please consider taking them out and spending some time with them on your next visit to the shelter!

• Aleck (Alec) the 5-year-old Pointer mix
• Barney the 6-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix
• Big Boy the 4-year-old Boxer mix and Mojo 6-year-old Boxer mix (a son/mom pair)
• Blush the 9-year-old Labrador Retriever mix
• Bo the 8-year-old Labrador Retriever mix
• Brutus the 2-year-old Hound mix (who was a Top Dog Competitor and completed a training course)
• Carlos the 5-year-old Hound mix
• Chase the 4-year-old Hound mix (who has been trained at a doggy boot camp)
• Claire (Clarinet) the 4-year-old Catahoula mix
• Delilah the 9-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix (you can read about why she is a volunteer favorite)
• Diamond (Riley) the 10-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix
• Donny the 10-year-old Mountain Cur mix
• Dunkin the Red the 9-year-old Labrador Retriever/Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix
• Hamilton the 1-year-and-9-month-old Great Dane mix (who has been trained at a doggy boot camp)
• Hobbs the 7-year-old Mountain Cur mix
• John Boy the 6-year-old Labrador Retriever mix (who was a Top Dog Competitor)
• Lucy the 10-year-old Boxer mix
• Nash the 3-year-old Labrador Retriever mix (who I have been taking out almost every week since he arrived, my personal favorite!)
• Pippa (Gia) the 3-year-old Australian Cattle Dog mix
• Puggie the 15-year-old Chihuahua mix
• Reeco the 5-year-old Boxer/Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix (who was a Top Dog Competitor and completed a training course) (his twin brother Harley was adopted earlier this year)
• Shyanne (Cheyenne) the 6-year-old Hound mix
• Snow White the 10-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix
• Thunder the 10-year-old Boxer mix
• Vanilla the 4-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix
• Whizzer the 7-year-old Hound mix (who has completed a training course and was our Top Dog Champion!)
• Wombat the 5-year-old Hound mix

And here are a few dogs who haven’t been at the shelter quite as long, but some good pooches I walked the weekend before Christmas:

• Apollo the 3-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix
• Jasmine the 8-year-old Rhodesian Ridgeback mix
• Maggie Mae the 2-year-old Labrador Retriever mix
• Princess the 7-year-old Labrador Retriever mix

Make 2019 the year you add a new furry family member!

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Celebrate Adopt a Senior Pet Month

Orphans of the Storm® has made Adopt a Senior Pet Month into a two-month, end-of-year special adoption event. Dogs and cats who are 8 years and older will have their $90 adoption fee waived through the end of 2018. Our partner veterinary office, Ruth Helen Wolf Animal Hospital, will also donate the cost of some medical fees including senior wellness exam, senior blood work, distemper and rabies vaccinations, and new tag. I met some new senior dogs this week, but first, here is a list of other seniors I’ve profiled before, and their current ages:

• Blush (9)
• Bo (8)
• Delilah (9)
• Diamond (Riley) (10)
• Donny (10)
• Dunkin the Red (9)
• Jasmine (8)
• Lucy (10)
• Puggie (14)
• Snow White (10)
• Thunder (9)
• Timmy (11)
• YoYo (Yeyo) (12)

On to new pooches, both older and younger!

Whiskey the five-year-old Hound mix is a super happy pooch. She wags her tail so hard when she’s getting pet that her entire back half wiggles. Whiskey is very affectionate and loves to cuddle and give doggy kisses. When she sees someone she knows, she goes straight up to them and leans against their legs so they have to stop and pet her.

Whiskey keeping an eye on things

Whiskey is a nice walking companion and does a good job on the leash. She happily joined me on the bench whenever I sat down. Whiskey gets along with other dogs and is currently sharing her kennel with Huckleberry, so she could go to a home with or without other dogs. Whiskey is also housebroken and gets along with children, so she’s ready to join a new family today. Come in soon to meet sweet Whiskey!

Whiskey is practically camouflaged!

Geezer the eight-year-old Treeing Walker Coonhound mix does not act like a geezer at all. He was leaping and bounding around the Enrichment Park and didn’t show signs of slowing down. He politely sniffed the dog on the other side of the fence but didn’t pay much attention otherwise. Geezer will take the occasional break to get pet, though, and enjoys receiving lots of attention and cuddles.

Geezer coming over for a cuddle

Geezer goes into full Hound mode once he hits the trail. He led the way on our walk around the woodland preserve and moved at a quick pace. His nose is either close to the ground or high in the air, to catch as many scents as he can. Geezer has that lovable Hound face that will put a smile on yours. Be sure to say hello to Geezer on your next visit to the shelter!

Geezer can also look very wise

Hazel the nine-year-old Catahoula Leopard Dog mix is currently undergoing heartworm treatment, so she’s looking for a special home that will help her with her recovery. She isn’t supposed to overexert herself, but that isn’t an issue because Hazel is super mellow and easygoing. Hazel walks nicely on the leash. She likes to lead the way, but will stop and follow you in a different direction if you want her to.

Hazel is a good-natured girl

Hazel enjoys getting pet and will stand by your side as long as you keep petting her. She has pretty coloring and one blue eye, one brown eye. Hazel seems to get along with other dogs, especially ones that are more her energy level. If you’re willing to open your home to a senior with some extra medical needs, Hazel would be very grateful to go home with you!

Hazel glowing in the sunshine

Jericho the four-year-old Jack Russell Terrier mix has that typical Terrier spunk. His little legs are almost always on the move. Jericho likes playing with toys and knows how to play fetch, or is just as happy to chew on a squeaky toy. Jericho walks well on the leash and doesn’t pull much. Jericho gets along with other dogs and is currently sharing his kennel with a dog closer to his size, so he could go to a home with or without other dogs.

Jericho is a cutie-patootie

Jericho is a very affectionate boy. He likes to cuddle and give lots of enthusiastic doggy kisses. He joined me on the bench and put his front paws in my lap. He also climbed into my lap when I knelt down to his level. If you stop petting him before he thinks you should, he’ll jump up and tap your leg with his front paws until you reach down to pet him again. If you’re looking for a fun and snuggly companion, be sure to meet Jericho!

Jericho will smile for snuggles

I also saw Apollo, Cooper, Duke, Maggie Mae, Nash, and Zeke.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Invite You to Clear the Shelters

Tomorrow, Saturday, August 18, is the annual Clear the Shelters nationwide event! Orphans of the Storm® is participating for the fourth year in a row. On this day, adoption fees for dogs and cats 5 months and older will be waived. This waived fee includes spay/neuter, but additional veterinary costs (such as final shots) will still apply if needed.

There are more than 100 dogs ready and waiting to join a new family this weekend. Here is a list of the longest long-timers, who have been at Orphans of the Storm® for 2 or more years, and who have their paws crossed that this year is their year!

• Alec (Aleck), Pointer mix
• Barney, Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix
• Bella, Boxer mix
• Blush, Labrador Retriever mix
• Carlos, Black and Tan Coonhound mix
• Cheyenne (Shyanne), Hound mix
• Clarinet, Catahoula Leopard Dog mix
• Gia (Pippa), Australian Cattle Dog mix
• Hobbs, Mountain Cur mix
• John Boy, Labrador Retriever mix
• Lucy, Boxer mix
• Puggie, Chihuahua mix
• Riley (Diamond), Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix
• Scotty, Labrador Retriever mix
• Snow White, Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix
• Thunder, Boxer mix
• Vanilla, Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix
• Wombat, Hound mix

And below are some newer dogs for you to meet, too!

Monte the one-year-old Vizsla mix found himself at the shelter because he was too nervous for his first family. He is still skittish, but has come a long way since he first arrived. He’s afraid of some things, like walking past the big dumpsters in the parking lot or having a branch of the bush he’s sniffing touch his back unexpectedly, but doesn’t seem fearful of people. Monte greeted me with a doggy hug as soon as he came out of his kennel, and gave me a few doggy kisses during our walk.

Monte is a handsome pup

Monte is an excellent walking companion. He only pulls on the leash if something spooks him. Otherwise, he’s super easy. Monte enjoys being pet and always came straight to me when I knelt down to his level. Monte gets along with children, so he could join a family with kids. He’s just looking for the right loving home to help him fully come out of his shell. Be sure to say hello to Monte on your next visit to the shelter!

Monte cooling off in the shade

Ruthy the one-year-old Chow Chow mix is a poofball whose face makes her look like she’s half-bear, half-fox. Even though she’s young, she already knows some manners. For example, she didn’t take a single step away from her kennel until I put the right walking collar on her. Ruthy walks nicely on the leash for the most part, though she does get the occasional burst of energy and wants to run a little ways.

Ruthy is so fluffy

Ruthy hopped on and then over one of the benches during our walk, and then joined me on another bench later so I could pet her some more. She can get a little bark-y when she passes by other dogs, so Ruthy would do best as the only pet in an adult home, with someone who has experience with her breed. If you love Chow Chows, come in soon to meet Ruthy!

Ruthy showing off her black Chow tongue

Trent the five-year-old Black and Tan Coonhound mix is a pretty typical Hound dog. He can be talkative with that signature baying, but was mostly quiet when we were out on our walk. Trent pulls on the leash a bit when he first comes out of his kennel because he’s excited to go for a walk, but he settles down quickly and is a good walking companion.

Trent loves the outdoors

Trent seems to be particularly fond of walking through tall grasses. His nose goes high and low to pick up as many scents as it can. It’s fun to watch! Trent is a sweet boy who likes getting pet and is gentle when taking treats from your hand. If you ain’t looking for nothing but a Hound dog, come in soon to meet Trent!

You will often find Trent with his nose to ground

Cass the six-year-old Catahoula Leopard Dog mix came from an owner who lost their job and couldn’t take care of him anymore. He used to live with another dog before he came to the shelter. Cass attends play group regularly and gets along with other dogs.

Cass and Crowley are a dynamic duo

Cass is easy to walk. He didn’t pull on the leash at all, even when he first came out of his kennel. Cass enjoyed exploring the off-leash run. Cass is definitely more of a sniffer and was snuffling around behind the bushes for a while. He is affectionate and will give you doggy kisses. Cass is looking for a home with either just adults or a family with older children. Be sure to say hello to Cass!

Cass’s eyes are mesmerizing!

Chip the ten-year-old Beagle mix may be a senior, but don’t let his age fool you. Chip still has springs for legs! When I was putting his leash on, he jumped straight up and booped my nose with his nose. Chip is a silly boy who starts barking when he sees or hears people in the distance. He also apparently doesn’t like golf carts and got a little huffy when one passed by the other side of the fence at the far end of the woodland preserve.

Chip making his way through the woods

Chip is a problem-solver. It was a hot day, and he was getting tired by the end of our walk. So what does he do? Goes to the shady underside of a bush, digs himself a little bed in the cool dirt, and plops down to take a breather. Genius! When it isn’t too hot of a day, Chip is a nice walking buddy who moves at an easy pace. If you’re considering an older dog but still want some spunk, come in soon to meet Chip!

Chip is a smarty-pants

I also saw Big Boy (who thinks he is a lapdog) and Mojo, Conny (who loves belly rubs), Elijah, Jasmine (who is super sweet), Nash (who enjoyed romping around the Enrichment Park and found a new favorite squeaky toy), Rudy, and Sadie (who covered my face in doggy kisses).

Orphans of the Storm® Pups and Adults

There are almost two dozen dogs at Orphans of the Storm® who are a year or younger right now! If you’re looking to add a young dog to your family, now is the time to come in. But if you want the puppy personality without the puppy antics, there are plenty of dogs who are past the puppy stage but still have a young spirit.

Cayenne the three-year-old German Shepherd mix is an active girl looking for an active home. She loves going for walks–and maybe the occasional run! Cayenne can be strong and pull on the leash when she first comes out of her kennel, but don’t let that deter you. Once she gets that initial burst of energy out of her system, she settles down.

Cayenne romping in the snow

Cayenne enjoyed being in the snow and wasn’t shy about sticking her nose in snow piles to follow an interesting scent. She would come running over to me every time I knelt down to her level. Cayenne isn’t a big fan of other dogs, so she would do best as the only dog in her new home. Cayenne would also prefer to be in an adult-only home. Stop in soon to say hello to Cayenne!

Cayenne stopping to snuffle

Sadie the eleven-month-old Hound mix is a super cute puppy. She gave me a doggy hug as soon as she came out of her kennel, and was always happy to stop during our walk for more snuggles and doggy kisses. Sadie seemed interested in the other dogs we passed on our walk, though we didn’t get close enough to see how she interacts.

Sadie is a little cutie

Sadie did pretty well on the leash, even though she’s still a young pup. She will still need some training, though, both for leash-walking and basic obedience. This perky girl is eager to learn! If you’re looking for a sweet and fun puppy to join your family, come in soon to meet Sadie!

Sadie enjoying her walk through the woods

Rufus the five-year-old American Bulldog mix has the most lovable face. He has an adorable underbite with his two bottom teeth sticking out that makes him look like one of the many college bulldog mascots. And Rufus isn’t shy about putting his cute face right up to yours! He will happily give you as many doggy kisses as you could want.

Rufus is a real attention-grabber with that face

Rufus is also a fan of cuddling. He hopped up on the bench next to me and put his front paws in my lap. Rufus likes walking at a quick pace, but doesn’t really pull on the leash as long as you’re keeping up with him. He isn’t a big fan of other dogs, so sometimes he will bark but other times he can walk by without a second glance. Be sure to say hello to Rufus on your next visit to the shelter!

Rufus also has a tiny little wagging tail

Dill the one-year-old Catahoula Leopard Dog mix can be a little shy at first, and is a bit nervous about being on the leash when you first hook him up. But once he got used to the leash, he ended up being a great walking buddy. Dill seems to be more comfortable with women than men, at least when it comes to initial greetings, so he’s looking for a home with people who will help him come out of his shell more.

Dill doing some exploring

Dill is still a puppy, though, and that means he likes to play! He had a great time racing Dexter on the other side of the fence while we were in the off-leash run, and also poked at and picked up a couple of the doggy toys that were there. He hasn’t quite mastered “fetch” yet, but he has plenty of time to learn that and other games. Come in soon to see if Dill is the pooch for you!

Dill has a handsome “tuxedo” coat

I also saw Carlos, Eve (who greeted me with a doggy hug), Goliath (who had a great time rolling around in the snow), Hamilton (who is still convinced he is a lapdog despite his extra-large size), Nash, Scotty, Wombat (who also greeted me with a doggy hug), and YoYo (formerly Yeyo).

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Will Put a Smile on Your Face

There are so many sweet dogs at Orphans of the Storm® right now (and always!). Come by for a visit and find out how happy a new forever friend could make you.

Gracie the seven-year-old Labrador Retriever/Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix is a sweet girl. She led the way to the woodland preserve and then settled into being a good walking companion. Gracie only pulled on the leash a couple of times when there was a particularly interesting scent she wanted to investigate. The rest of the time, she walked at a nice pace just a few steps ahead of me.

Gracie has cute patches on her face

Gracie likes to give doggy kisses, especially after she’s had the chance to get to know you. Gracie also had no problem pausing a few times during our walk so she could get pet. When we were in the off-leash run, Gracie did some exploring on her own but always came back to get a pat on the back. Stop in soon to meet Gracie!

Gracie literally shines in the sun!

Luke the eleven-month-old Catahoula Leopard Dog mix is a happy boy who will be even happier once he has a home to call his own. Luke isn’t shy at all, and will cover your face in doggy kisses. He’s also happy to hop up and join you on the bench for a snuggle session. This puppy will take all the attention he can get!

Luke knows how to smile

Luke is pretty well-behaved for a puppy. He probably hasn’t had much (if any) training, but he walks well on the leash and is content to just go with the flow. Luke gets excited around other dogs but it seems to be more of a friendly exuberance. He has a cute, curly tail and sweet face. Come in soon to see if Luke is the pup for you!

You can’t say no to a face like Luke’s!

Boss the three-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix might look tough, but he doesn’t act tough! When I first saw this big boy, he was rolling around on his back in the grass and kicking all four paws in the air. Boss sometimes makes a snuffly noise of contentment when you pet him, which is cute.

Boss says hello!

Boss enjoyed his walk around the woodland preserve. He made his way through the tall grasses and did some more snuffling. He can get bark-y around some dogs, but other dogs he doesn’t give a second glance. Boss would do best as the only pet in his new home (he’s not a fan of cats in particular). If you have a one-pet kind of home, come in soon to meet Boss!

Boss is a handsome boy

Sydney (also known as Melody) the eight-year-old German Shepherd mix ended up at the shelter because her original family became homeless and could no longer care for her. But this means that she has a lifetime of experience being a family dog, and we know that she gets along with children. Sydney is very sweet and will give you some doggy kisses while you pet her.

Sydney (Melody) could be a dog model

Sydney is a gorgeous dog. More than one customer stopped me to ask more about Sydney while we were out on our walk. She walks great on the leash but also didn’t mind stopping every once in a while so I could pet her. Sydney can get a little bark-y around other dogs, but it was easy enough to redirect her and keep walking. Be sure to say hello to Sydney on your next visit to the shelter!

Sydney (Melody) keeping an eye on things

Buddy the three-year-old Hound/Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix is a fun boy. The first thing he did when he came out of his kennel was give me a big doggy hug. He gave me a few more during the rest of the time we were out together. Buddy has some energy when he first comes out, but he settled down soon after.

Buddy’s smile will brighten your day

Buddy likes to chase after toys, but could use some extra practice on bringing them back to the person who threw them. Buddy’s tail was wagging pretty much the entire time we were together. He did some exploring in the off-leash run, but mostly stayed close to me so I could keep petting him. Buddy is ready to find his own buddy, so come in soon to meet him!

Buddy cooling off after chasing his toys

I also saw Bella, Big Boy and Mojo, Clarinet, Delilah, Dunkin the Red, Lucy, Oliver, and Scotty.