Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Are Still Here!

Apologies for the long hiatus! But the dogs of Orphans of the Storm® are still here and still ready to find their forever homes. Orphans of the Storm® is once again open on a walk-in basis, so you no longer need to make an appointment before coming in. However, appointments are still encouraged. Here are NINE great dogs who want to meet you!

Posey the two-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is the snuggliest! She wants to be as close to her people as possible. She loves to give doggy hugs and will happily stand on her back legs for as long as you scratch her ears and sides. She also enjoys getting belly rubs and will climb into your lap and roll over so you can reach all her favorite spots. Posey is a big fan of giving doggy kisses too, and will cover your face in licks and then rest her chin on your shoulder so you can cuddle even more.

Posey will always sit right by your side

Posey is a little pig-like. She snorts and snuffles while she explores around the yard or on the trail, and the noises are the cutest. Posey walks nicely on the leash once she gets her initial burst of energy out of her system and was a good walking buddy on the trail. She loves romping around the yard and raced another dog on the other side of the fence a few times. Posey chased after toys but wasn’t too interested in playing fetch. If you are looking for a dog who will never stray far from your side, come in soon to meet Posey!

Posey has the cutest floppy ears and wrinkly forehead

Kap the four-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is such a smart boy. He already knows “sit,” “high five” (with both paws!), “down,” and probably even more! He is very treat-motivated, so he will be a quick and eager learner. Kap is also a sweetheart. He loves to put his front paws in your lap and cover you in doggy kisses, and then happily keep his paws in your lap while you pet him. He can get a little worked up when he’s in his kennel, but he is very mellow outside of the kennel and just enjoys being out with people.

Kap enjoying his romp in the yard

Kap loves toys. He easily entertains himself by kicking and chasing balls around the yard–he doesn’t even need a person in order to play fetch! Once he’s tired himself out, he takes his toy and plops down to do some chewing. Kap is a serious chewer and can quickly tear toys apart, though, so he needs to be supervised when he has a toy to make sure he doesn’t accidentally eat any of it. He quickly trades a toy for a treat, though, so it’s never an issue getting a torn toy away from him. If you’re looking for a smart and playful pooch, stop in soon to meet Kap!

Kap working on destroying this poor ball

Zoey the five-year-old Labrador Retriever mix is such a pretty girl, with her flowing and shiny black fur. Her absolute favorite thing is back and hip scratches. She wiggles back and forth until you find the perfect spot and then leans into your hand to make sure you keep scratching, and she turns around and gives you a big doggy smile so you know how much she’s enjoying herself. She’ll also give you a few doggy kisses as a thank-you.

Zoey coming when called

Zoey is attentive to her person and is pretty good about coming when you call her, even when she’s on the other side of the yard. She enjoys romping around the yard but wasn’t overly interested in playing with toys. Zoey can occasionally pull on the leash when she’s excited to go in a particular direction, but overall she’s an easy walking buddy and does even better when she’s on a harness. Be sure to say hello to Zoey on your next visit to the shelter!

Zoey smiling while I scratch her hips

Steel the three-year-old Canaan Dog/Chow Chow mix will catch your eye right away. He is so handsome and has such a distinct blue-black tongue! Steel is a smart boy who already knows some commands and can definitely learn more. He walks great on the leash and walks just a few steps ahead of you. Steel gets along with other dogs and attends play group, but he is not a fan of cats.

Talk about a head-turner! Steel has the best looks

Steel loves toys–but sometimes too much! He can be a little possessive and doesn’t want his toys taken away. For this reason, he would do best in an adult-only home where he doesn’t have to worry about sharing (intentionally or otherwise) with kids who might want to play with his toys too. Steel even likes to carry toys with him on walks sometimes. Steel has plenty of energy and is looking for an active home where he can get the exercise and playtime he deserves. If that sounds like you, come in soon to meet Steel!

Steel deciding between two toys

Norman the eight-month-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is such a sweetie. Any time you sit down on a bench, Norman hops up and sits down right next to you–as close to you as he can get without actually being on you–and stays still and calm for as long as you’re petting him. He sometimes leans over and gives you a doggy kiss or two. Even though he’s still a puppy, he walks pretty well on the leash and only pulls every once in a while.

Norman has the cutest speckled ears

Norman has his playful puppy side too, though. He especially likes big, bouncy balls that he can chase after and push around the yard himself. When he eventually catches it, he likes to lie down and chew. Norman will love going to a home that will spoil him with lots of toy options! Norman would also appreciate having a yard to call his own, where he can run a few laps before plopping down and sunning himself. If you’re looking for a sweet puppy, be sure to say hello to Norman on your next visit to the shelter!

Norman flies!

Franco the ten-month-old Pit Bull Terrier/Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix is a gentle giant. He seems like a bit of a handful inside his kennel just because he is so big and he likes to jump up against the gate to say hello, but he is actually super easy to walk and loves to cuddle. He is so attentive! During our walk, he stayed so close to me that his side was brushing against my leg with almost every step, and he would pause and look up at me at regular intervals just to make sure we were still on the same page. He has the prettiest light, bright eyes.

Franco trying his best to fit in my lap

Franco hasn’t quite figured out his own size yet, so he can be funnily clumsy. When I sat down on the bench, he tried to put his front paws in my lap but overshot it and ended up sort of draped over my legs instead. He didn’t seem to mind as long as I scratched his sides and he was able to reach my face to give me doggy kisses. He is a play group regular and has made some doggy friends, so he could go to a home with or without another dog. Don’t let Franco’s large size intimidate you–he’s a true teddy bear. Come in soon to see for yourself!

Nobody looks their best when it’s 90 degrees and humid, but I assure you Franco is a cutie!

Swift the four-year-old Hound/Pit Bull Terrier mix is a silly, sweet boy. He loves having the chance to run and play in the big Enrichment Park. He enthusiastically chases after toys when you throw them, and then is happy to throw them in the air again himself and chase them some more. Swift is also enthusiastic about his people. He takes a running leap in your general direction, though he doesn’t jump on you or at you–he may nudge your elbow with his nose as he flies past. But then he settles down and leans against your legs while you rub his sides.

Swift stopping to smell the flowers

Swift has the cutest speckled nose that looks even cuter when he’s giving you a big doggy smile. Swift enjoys giving doggy kisses and will join you on the bench for some snuggles. He can pull on the leash when he first comes out of his kennel, but he’s an easy walking buddy on the trail and likes to sniff around in all the tall grasses and bushes. Swift’s Hound side comes out when a bird crosses his path, and he almost goes into a Pointer pose as he watches it hopping around. Come by the shelter soon to meet sweet Swift!

Swift being playful

Stella the two-year-old Labrador Retriever mix is an active, athletic girl looking for an active, athletic home where she can participate in all the fun. She loves to run after toys, especially balls that bounce extra high, though she hasn’t quite mastered the part where she brings it back so you can throw it again. Stella also loves to run after squirrels and will chase them up trees, where she stands on her back legs and wishes she could climb up after them. Stella can be strong when she wants to be, but overall walks nicely on the leash and mostly stayed just a step or two ahead of me and walked at a nice, even pace.

Stella being a sweetie

Stella is very snuggly and leans against your legs while you scratch her sides. She already knows a few commands like “sit” and could easily learn more. Stella is “most improved” in play group. When she first arrived at Orphans of the Storm, she did not get along with the other dogs at all, but now she is a play group rock star and has the longest list of doggy friends! It’s still a good idea for her to have slow introductions with new dogs, but she does have the potential to go to a home with another dog. Be sure to say hello to Stella on your next visit to the shelter!

Stella wondering where the squirrel went

Dana the three-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix can be extra excitable when she first comes out of her kennel, but she settles down quickly once she gets a chance to stretch her legs in the yard and then does a great job walking on the leash around the trail. She leads the way, but doesn’t pull on the leash. Dana enjoys following her nose and exploring through all the tall plants along the path.

Dana’s adorable face

Dana likes to chase after balls, especially when they bounce a few times, but hasn’t quite mastered bringing them back in order to play fetch. She also enjoys water and likes to be sprayed down with a hose and sometimes dips her paws in the puppy pool. Dana’s secret skill is that she can climb fences, so she will need to be closely supervised when she’s off-leash! Dana is looking for a home where she can be the only pet. If that sounds like you, come in soon to meet Dana!

Dana wondering if she should take a dip in the puppy pool

I also saw Coal and Polly, both of whom were unfortunately returned after long stints in homes but who are ready to find their new forevers. Polly has settled down so much since I first profiled her–she is an easy walking companion, completely housebroken, and loves to just find a sunny spot where she can lie down and relax. Coal’s favorite thing in the world is water. He loves to splash around in the puppy pools and likes getting hosed down.

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 Wish You Happy Holidays!

Orphans of the Storm® will be closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, but back open at our normal time of 11am on Thursday. If you don’t get the dog you wished for under the tree this week, then come by the shelter to meet the perfect pooch for you!

Rudgie the six-year-old Redbone Coonhound mix is an energetic boy. He loves using his Hound nose to explore all the interesting scents when he romps around the yard off-leash. Rudgie gets the occasional burst of energy where he runs a lap or two around the yard, but then settles down to more of a meandering. Rudgie is very snuggly and will happily stand by your side for as long as you keep petting him.

Rudgie coming over to cuddle (with a guest appearance by Sirius in the background)

Rudgie is a smart boy and comes bounding over when you whistle. He would be eager to learn much more! He’s also easy-going enough that he doesn’t mind getting dressed up in hats and other cute outfits. Rudgie was previously sharing his kennel with Sirius (see below), so he gets along with other dogs. If you’ve been looking for a happy Hound, come in soon to meet Rudgie!

Rudgie has the floppiest ears

Sirius the four-year-old Labrador Retriever/Chow Chow mix is pretty mellow. He enjoyed exploring the off-leash yard on his own, at a slow and steady pace. Sirius walks nicely on the leash and rarely pulls (except for when he doesn’t want to go back to his kennel, understandably!). When Sirius comes over to get pet, he particularly enjoys getting his hips scratched.

Sirius’ sweet face (with a guest appearance by Rudgie)

Sirius was previously sharing his kennel with Rudgie (see above), so he gets along with other dogs. He also has done well being around children. Black dogs sometimes get overlooked in shelters, but Harry Potter taught us that black dogs can sometimes be a doting godfather in disguise. Come by the shelter soon and let Sirius show you how sweet he can be!

Sirius would love a yard to call his own

Blanche the two-year-old Labrador Retriever/Hound mix is pretty timid when she first comes out of her kennel, but she warms up after a few minutes and is actually very snuggly. She can also be skittish when there are loud or unfamiliar noises, but after some encouragement she gets braver. Blanche ended up enjoying being able to explore around the Enrichment Park and did lots of sniffing and investigating.

Blanche is a nice walking buddy

Blanche snuggled up with me when I knelt down to her level, and put her front paws up on the bench next to me when I sat down during our walk. She can be a little resistant to walking on the leash at first, but once we got on the woodland preserve trail she was a great walking companion. Blanche has participated in at least one play group, and being with other gentle dogs brings out her playful side. Be sure to say hello to Blanche on your next visit to the shelter!

Blanche coming out of her shell

Bessie the six-year-old Beagle mix is a little cutie. She can be a bit of a slowpoke on walks because, being a Beagle, she wants to sniff absolutely everything. If she’s going too slow for your liking, though, Bessie doesn’t mind being picked up and carried. Bessie had a great time snuffling her way around the Enrichment Park. The shelter in Tennessee where she came from said that Bessie also loves playing with toys.

Bessie doing what Beagles do best

Bessie gets along with other dogs of all sizes. She was previously sharing her kennel with another dog her size who has since been adopted, and has also participated in play group with larger dogs and actively played with them. If you’re looking for a playful pup, be sure to say hello to Bessie on your next visit to the shelter!

Bessie says, “Hey, what was that noise?”

I also saw Carlos (who gave me very enthusiastic doggy hugs).

Play group included Anya, Barney, Batman (Wombat), Blanche, Carlos, Polly, Rooster, and Turbo, as well as not-yet-profiled dogs Brunhilda, Jordan, Lola, Mrs. Doolittle, Pumpkin, and Wednesday.

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® Dogs Are Ready for a New Home in the New Year

The weather finally cooperated enough for me to meet the first new pooches of 2017! There are lots of cuties at Orphans of the Storm® right now. It was hard for me to decide who to take out first.

Riley the five-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix came from an owner who could no longer care for her, but she came with a glowing review that she certainly lived up to! Riley is friendly, affectionate, gets along with children, and walks nicely on the leash. (Though she is mostly muscle, so if she happens to have a direction she wants to go then you will most likely be going in that direction also.) Riley might look big at first, but her legs are pretty short and stubby (and cute), so she stays low to the ground.

Riley has the sweetest face

Riley enjoyed exploring the off-leash run and did lots of snuffling behind and underneath the bushes. When I asked if she was ready to go for a walk, she immediately headed to the gate and wagged her tail while I put the leash on. After our walk around the woodland preserve, I sat down on the bench and patted the spot next to me. Riley hopped right up, put her front paws in my lap, and covered my face in enthusiastic doggy kisses. Come in soon to meet Riley and see if she’s the sweet family dog for you!

Riley following her nose

Lucy the three-year-old Treeing Walker Coonhound mix is so well-behaved. She was sitting politely in her kennel, just looking at me, so I couldn’t ignore such good manners. Lucy did some signature Hound baying once she was in the outside portion of her kennel, but as soon as the leash was on, she didn’t make another peep for the rest of our time together. A lot of Hounds will be off and running as soon as the gate opens, but Lucy walks nicely on the leash and mostly stayed by my side.

Lucy climbing into my lap

Lucy is a great snuggler. When I knelt down next to her, she put a paw on my knee. Then I sat all the way on the ground and she put both front paws on my lap and didn’t budge for as long as I pet her. Even when I told her we should keep walking, she just looked at me like, “No, I’d rather stay here and cuddle.” Lucy politely sniffed a Beagle we passed on our walk, so she seems to get along with dogs of different sizes. Be sure to say hi to Lucy on your next visit to the shelter! (You can also say hi to Lucy the Boxer mix and Lucy the Terrier mix while you’re at it. All Lucy’s at the shelter are super sweet!)

Lucy showing off her spots

Copper the eight-year-old Chow Chow mix is a fluffy lovebug. She does the cutest thing that you will have to see in person, but I will try my best to describe. When Copper wants you pet her, she’ll tilt her head to the side, and then hop forward and give you a little nudge or head-butt. This happened at least four or five times while we were out, and it never stopped being adorable. And then once you do start petting her, she’ll plop right down next to you if you’re sitting or lean against your legs if you’re standing.

Copper leading the way around the woods

Copper is a good walking companion. She didn’t walk too fast or too slow, she occasionally stopped to sniff, and she didn’t get overexcited if other dogs were nearby. Copper gives very convincing “sad puppy dog eyes” when she’s inside her kennel, but perks up as soon as you take her out. Copper’s heart is as golden as her fur! Stop in soon to see if Copper is the pooch for you.

Copper looks particularly majestic in the sunlight

Buddy the eight-year-old Rottweiler mix was snoozing on his doggy bed when I came by his kennel, but as soon as I opened the doggy door to the outside, he was ready to go. Buddy is yet another great leash-walker. I don’t think he pulled on the leash even once. He came from an owner, so he has plenty of experience being a pet in a home.

Buddy says, “I love you!”

Buddy was content to just meander around the off-leash run and come back to me every once in a while for a scratch on the back. He looked at a tennis ball and a giant rope toy but didn’t seem too interested in fetching either of them. Buddy knows some basic commands and would be happy to demonstrate for you. If you’re looking for a more mellow companion, Buddy may be the right buddy for you! Stop in soon to find out.

Buddy is more of a sniffer than a player

I also saw Astrid, Bella, Blaze, Blush, Juno, Merlin, Noah, and Tino.

Orphans of the Storm® Long-Timers Hoping for a Home for the Holidays

I’m going to save new dogs for the new year and take the next couple of weeks to write about some of the dogs at Orphans of the Storm® who have been waiting for their forever family a little longer than others. Included are updated photos from this past weekend.

Weezie the nine-year-old Chow Chow mix is quickly becoming one of my favorites. She may bark at you when you first walk by her kennel, but once you take her out she is one of the sweetest dogs. Now that she knows me, she greets me with a wagging tail instead of a bark. Weezie is a senior and walks on the slower side, but she gets around just fine and enjoys being outside. When I had her out this past weekend, she sat by my feet and enjoyed getting a scratch on the neck. She will happily give you doggy kisses if you give her the opportunity! Weezie has a lifetime of experience as a family pet and is ready to join a new family and show off what a lovable companion she is. You can read more about my first visit with Weezie here.

Weezie

Zoey the four-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is an energetic girl who loves to run and play. She knows her basic commands like “sit” and would be a quick learner if her new family wanted to teach her more. Zoey likes to chase tennis balls, though she doesn’t usually bring them back. She’s also enjoyed playing with other dog toys in the past. Zoey has very pretty coloring that I haven’t seen on any other dog. If you’re an active person looking for an active companion, Zoey might be the one for you! You can read more about my first visit with Zoey here.

Zoey

Showtime the six-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix is a volunteer favorite. There were several other volunteers at the shelter when I was there this weekend, and all of them stopped what they were doing to say hello to Showtime. Showtime’s favorite thing is getting her hips scratched; she does a cute little dance and wags her tail. Showtime seems to do pretty well with other dogs also. Since everyone who knows her likes her, all you have to do is come in to meet her! You can read more about my first visit with Showtime here.

Showtime

Lexi the five-year-old American Bulldog mix is super happy, all the time. Her tail never stops wagging and she is always eager to greet people and do some cuddling. Lexi quickly joined me on the bench and tried her best to fit in my lap, though she’s a little big for that. Lexi loves going for walks and literally jumps up and down when she finds out it’s her turn. Sadly, Lexi has cancer, but you wouldn’t know that just from spending time with her. Lexi is looking for a special person who will love her and take care of her through her illness. You can read more about my first visit with Lexi here.

Lexi

Zola (previously known as Chola) the two-year-old Hound mix has shared her kennel with many dogs during her time at Orphans of the Storm®, and for some reason her kennelmates always get adopted and Zola remains. Although Zola gets along with other dogs, she would prefer to be the only dog in her new home. Zola is very snuggly and absolutely loves getting belly rubs. I wish I could have gotten a picture of her this weekend when I was giving her a belly rub because I have never seen a dog look so happy: Zola’s eyes were half-closed and the corners of her mouth were turned up just slightly so she really looked like she was smiling. She could have stayed like that all day! You can read more about my first visit with Zola here.

Zola

Diamond the eight-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is one of the longest long-timers at the shelter, and she’s another volunteer favorite. She walks pretty well on the leash and enjoys spending time in the off-leash run. One of her favorite activities is racing whatever dog happens to be in the run next to her; she’ll do a little bark and go into a play-bow to entice them. Diamond will gladly stay by your side as long as you’re petting her. You can read more about my first visit with Diamond here.

Diamond

Bear the two-year-old Chow Chow mix likes being around adults but isn’t as much of a fan of children. Bear likes adults so much that he sometimes has separation anxiety, so he would prefer to be in a home where someone is around most of the day. Bear is a sweet boy who walks pretty well on the leash and enjoys getting a good scratch under the chin. You can read more about my first visit with Bear here.

Bear

Roxy the six-year-old Labrador Retriever/Pit Bull Terrier mix came from an owner, so she knows what it takes to be a family dog. She’s not too fond of other dogs but loves being with people and will give you plenty of doggy kisses once she gets a chance to know you. Roxy can pull a bit on the leash at first but settles down quickly. She would love to have a yard to call her own and an owner who will take her for daily walks. You can read more about my first visit with Roxy here.

Roxy

Bella the eleven-year-old Boxer mix is another one of my favorites. I know I say this about her every time, but it’s because it’s so true: Bella is the definition of “gentle giant.” She’s one of the largest dogs at the shelter right now, but one of the easiest to walk on the leash. Bella loves to snuggle and give doggy kisses. Her favorite place to get pet is her back, but her ears and chin are good choices too! Bella would like to be the only dog in her new home. All she’s looking for is a loving family to join for her golden years. She has so much love to offer! You can read more about my first visit with Bella here.

Bella

Scotty the ten-year-old Labrador Retriever/Pit Bull Terrier mix is another sweetheart. He walks nicely on the leash and just loves spending time with people. Scotty will stay by your side as long as you’re petting him and particularly likes getting scratched on his back and hips. Scotty has a horseshoe-shaped marking on his back, which we keep hoping will bring him some luck! Scotty had some surgery on his back knee a while ago but you wouldn’t be able to tell that now; he gets around with no problem. Scotty is a mellow senior looking for a loving home. You can read more about my first visit with Scotty here.

Scotty

Stay tuned next week to get reacquainted with some other long-timers!

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Bring the Holiday Cheer

When you adopt a pet from Orphans of the Storm®, that cat or dog is going to brighten your day every day! But the holidays are an especially nice time to have some extra cheer. The three dogs I met this week will have no problem putting a smile on your face.

Spade the two-year-old Labrador Retriever mix is a cutie. His light brown eyes really jump out at you from the black fur on his face, so you won’t be able to resist saying hello! Spade was a little shy at first, but he walked nicely on the way to the off-leash run and he even sat down next to me and waited patiently while I took his leash off (unlike most dogs, who try to run free before I can even close the gate behind us!).

Spade showing off his black “mask”

Spade spent the first couple of minutes exploring on his own, but he came back to me soon enough so I could pet him. He gave me a few doggy kisses in return. Spade joined me on the bench briefly, so there’s a good chance there is some couch-cuddling in store for his future owners. Spade seems like a pretty calm and easy-going guy. Stop by the shelter soon to say hello to Spade!

Spade is such a handsome boy

Weezie the nine-year-old Chow Chow mix was adopted from Orphans of the Storm® when she was just a puppy. Now she’s back and ready for a second chance at a forever home where she can spend her golden years. She has a lifetime of experience as a family pet; she’s house-trained and knows some basic commands. Weezie is pretty nervous inside her kennel (understandably, since she’s used to being in a home) but she really perks up once she’s out and about.

Weezie coming over for a scratch on the back

Weezie, being an older dog, has some knee issues. But that doesn’t stop her from enjoying the outdoors! She’s happy to go on short walks or spend time hanging out in the yard. There were a few times while we were together when she simply sat by my feet and enjoyed a good scratch on the top of her head between her ears. The cutest/funniest thing Weezie did was that when I went to take her for a walk, she was in the middle of chewing on a bone. I thought she had carried it with her, but it turned out that she sneakily hid it outside her kennel and when I went to put her back, she went straight to the spot she hid it, picked it back up, and continued to chew it after she was back in her kennel. So resourceful! Come in soon to meet Weezie.

Weezie is ready for a new life on the other side of the fence

Tweetie the ten-year-old Beagle mix is one of those pooches who will make you say “Aww” when you see her, particularly if you have a soft spot for older dogs and/or dogs who are slightly overweight. Tweetie has a bit of a tummy that could probably be worked off once she’s in a home where she gets to go for regular walks multiple times a day. The good news is she loves going for walks!

Tweetie is a sweetie!

Tweetie may have gray fur on her face, but she certainly doesn’t act like a senior. We headed straight for the woodland preserve walking trail and Tweetie led the way. When Tweetie wanted to follow her nose off into the bushes but I kept her on the trail, she voiced her opinion with a short howl. Tweetie was previously sharing her kennel with another Beagle mix who has since been adopted, so she could go to a home with or without another dog. Stop by soon to see if Tweetie is the pooch for you!

Tweetie enjoying the fresh air

I also saw Bear, Blush, and Duke.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Will Snuggle in Any Weather

It was the first snow-less day at Orphans of the Storm® in a long time, and the dogs were happy to be out and about without fear of snowy paws!

Rusty the two-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix is a fun, good-natured boy. He’s strong, but even so, he walks well on a leash and seems eager to please people. Rusty kept to himself for the first few minutes we were in the off-leash run, but he soon realized that I was there to cuddle and play with him. Rusty loves getting a good scratch on his hips and will gladly stay by your side as long as you’re petting him.

Rusty looking dapper

Rusty also enjoys playing with toys. He found a seahorse-shaped squeaky toy and proudly carried it around. He was also good at fetching it, and didn’t seem to get possessive over the toy. Once Rusty gets to know you, he will shower you with affection, including lots of doggy hugs and doggy kisses. If you’re looking for a happy and playful new companion, come in soon to meet Rusty!

Rusty loved playing with his seahorse toy

Nutmeg the one-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix still looks and acts like a puppy, meaning she is both adorable and exuberant. She was literally jumping up and down in excitement when I came over to her kennel with the leash. Nutmeg will need a bit of leash training from her new family, because right now she likes to think that the leash is a tug-of-war toy.

Nutmeg is a playful little girl

Nutmeg had a good time exploring the off-leash run and keeping an eye on the birds that were hiding in the bushes. After she had the chance to stretch her legs, she came over to me and attempted to climb into my lap so we could snuggle. She gave me some happy doggy kisses in the process, her tail wagging the entire time. Nutmeg knows she would be a great addition to someone’s home. If you think that someone could be you, stop by the shelter to meet Nutmeg!

Nutmeg coming over to cuddle

Oak the ten-year-old Shepherd mix could definitely use some cheering up right now. He lost his home and is hoping that someone new will welcome him into theirs. Oak is a senior dog, so that means he is extremely mellow and easy to get along with. He walks well on the leash and enjoys the outdoors.

Oak is very regal

Oak is probably one of the best-looking dogs at the shelter at the moment. He is so soft and fluffy, with really beautiful coloring. He enjoys a good petting, and you will certainly enjoy petting him! Oak has a bit of a stiff leg, but that doesn’t stop him from getting around just fine. If you’re looking for a calm, gentle dog to be your new companion, come in soon to see if Oak is the one for you!

Oak’s fluffy fur makes him an ideal snuggle buddy

Tulip the five-year-old Chow Chow mix is a little nervous right now. She was abandoned by her previous owners and has had it a little rough, based on the burs and matting you can find in her fluffy fur. But after a few minutes of gentle petting and soothing words, Tulip started to warm up and that tail started to wag. (Regarding the drool in Tulip’s pictures, I think it was mostly because she was nervous.)

Tulip also knows all about being fluffy

Tulip, despite her hardships, is pretty easy to get along with. She walks well on the leash and she’s currently sharing her kennel with another dog, so she could go to a home with or without a furry friend. This sweet girl just wants to love and be loved in return, which really isn’t asking for much. Stop by the shelter soon to meet Tulip!

Tulip was smiling by the end of our visit

During this visit, I re-fell in love with Clint (not that I had fallen out of love with Clint, but I just hadn’t spent time with him in a while). Clint is the pooch sharing his kennel with Tulip, so I took them both out simultaneously. When I sat down on the ground, Clint came right to me and rolled over for a belly rub. He then rested his head on my legs and promptly fell asleep. I haven’t seen such a content look on a dog’s face in a long time. If you’re looking for a snuggly lapdog, look no further than Clint!

Clint, happy as a clam

I also saw Tucker, Tom-Tom, Skipper, Sandy, Roxy, Honey Lamb, Diamond, Courage, Boston, Blush, and Bella.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs to Cuddle

Although any time of year is the perfect time to adopt a dog (or cat) from Orphans of the Storm®, you have to admit that the middle of winter is a great time to bring home a new furry friend to help keep you warm!

Bear the one-year-old Chow Chow/Shepherd mix can pretty much be described in one word: mellow. When he’s inside his kennel, he’s just relaxing on his doggy bed. When he’s outside, he is a great walking buddy who doesn’t pull on the leash at all. Bear seems politely interested in other dogs; he sniffed nicely through the run’s fence and even whined a little bit when the other dog walked away!

Bear has a very handsome face

Bear has plenty of adorable black fluff to keep him warm in these cold temperatures. He has a sweet, expressive face that he doesn’t mind putting right up to yours in order to give you a quick doggy kiss. Although Bear seems to be naturally well-behaved, keep in mind that he’s still young and would benefit from some training. Bear would also prefer to be in an adult-only home. If you think Bear could be the pooch for you, come in soon to meet him!

Bear enjoying the outdoors

Clarinet the one-year-old Catahoula mix is a real sweetie. She will greet any person who comes her way with a doggy hug and a doggy kiss. Her entire body was wriggling with happiness when she realized she was going out for a walk and she quickly led the way to the off-leash run, where she had a fun time exploring.

Clarinet following her nose

Clarinet is a very affectionate and snuggly girl. After she had romped around the run for a few minutes, she joined me on the bench and sat as close as she could without actually being in my lap. Clarinet loves attention and will gladly stay by your side as long as you’re petting her. If you’re looking for a fun girl who will surely put a smile on your face, stop by the shelter soon to meet Clarinet!

Clarinet with her pretty blue eye/brown eye combo

Pancho the one-year-old Labrador Retriever/Catahoula mix is another young dog, which you can easily tell by his exuberant and happy-go-lucky personality. Pancho is constantly wagging his tail, whether he’s walking on the leash, greeting another dog, or trying to climb into your lap (“trying” being the key word, since he’s a little big for that).

Pancho also has one blue eye and one brown eye!

Pancho loves people, and it seems like he would get along with other dogs as well. Whenever I knelt down to his level, he would come hurrying over to snuggle, and also rolled over for a belly rub a couple times. While we were in the middle of one belly rub, the girl in the run next to ours said, “I want a dog like that!” because Pancho was being so sweet and cute. If you want a dog like that too, be sure to say hello to Pancho on your next visit to the shelter!

Pancho wants to say hi to everybody

Jingles the five-year-old Rat Terrier mix is a little cutie. I actually tried to walk him a while ago, when he first arrived at the shelter, but he was too nervous and shy at the time. Now he’s started to come out of his shell and was more than ready to come out for a walk (and it probably helps that he now has a buddy, Suzie [see below], to make him feel safer).

Jingles preferred being in the bushes

Jingles is still a little on the shy side, so he spent the first few minutes hanging out in and around the bushes in the off-leash run. Once he got more comfortable, though, he came over to me on his own and even put his front paws in my lap so we could cuddle. Our visit got cut a little short because Jingles was heading to an off-site event, so we know he does well on car rides too. If you’re looking for a smaller dog who can easily settle into your lap for a nap, be sure to meet Jingles!

Jingles has an adorable little face

Suzie the seven-year-old Beagle mix is absolutely adorable. She has a bit of a round tummy (as Beagles can sometimes have, since they’re known for getting a little chunky if not properly monitored) but that doesn’t slow her down in the slightest. She quickly led the way to the off-leash run, though we sometimes had to stop and wait for her kennelmate Jingles (see above) to catch up. Suzie is the typical Beagle in that she usually keeps her nose to the ground, following whatever scent she picks up.

Suzie the sweetie

Suzie is another incredibly affectionate pooch. She’ll put her paws on your leg and wait for you to lean over so she can give you a doggy kiss, and she’ll also try to climb into your lap if given the opportunity. Suzie also gets along with dogs of all sizes, from little Jingles all the way up to a big yellow Lab that she spent some time with. Whether you’re looking for your first dog or looking to add another dog to your pack, you can’t go wrong with Suzie! Stop by the shelter soon to see if she’s the one for you.

Suzie coming over to snuggle

Turbo the two-year-old German Shepherd mix is very appropriately named, since he is full of energy and quite speedy. We hurried our way over to the off-leash run, where Turbo took full advantage of the open space and had a fun time racing the dog on the other side of the fence. Turbo is out of official puppyhood, but he can still act like a pup sometimes, especially when it comes to thinking the leash is a toy!

Turbo knows how to smile for the camera

Turbo came from a family who could no longer care for him, so he already has some training under his belt and is housebroken. However, Turbo has some separation anxiety and would do best in a home where at least one member of the family is home the majority of the time. What fun company Turbo would be! If you’re looking for a big boy who can provide great companionship, come in soon to meet Turbo!

Turbo racing through the run

I also saw my buddies Cosmo, Chubs, Blush, Gypsy, Willow, and Shasta.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Take a Walk

It was the first cool day in a while at Orphans of the Storm®, but the dogs certainly didn’t mind because they all have their fur coats!

Digby the four-year-old Treeing Walker Coonhound mix is a pretty mellow guy. He’s usually snoozing in his kennel when I walk by, but he was happy to have the chance to take a walk. Since he’s so laid-back, he makes for a good walking companion because he rarely pulls on the leash. He does like to follow his nose, like any good Hound, but will stop doing that in order to cuddle with you if you kneel down next to him.

Digby being a good walking buddy

Digby is what I call a leaner. When you start petting him, he will lean against your legs and maybe even attempt to sit on your lap! (Even though he’s a little big for that.) Digby was found as a stray but seems to know what it takes to be a great companion. His sweet brown eyes are clearly saying, “Let me love you.” Come by the shelter soon to see if Digby is the one for you!

Digby smiling for the camera

Duke the four-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is one handsome pooch (who actually has very similar coloring to the equally pretty Topaz). Duke is ready to greet everyone with a wagging tail. He’s a good walking buddy who would love to have an owner who can take him on nice walks every day. Duke had a great time exploring the off-leash run and getting the chance to stretch his legs.

Duke playing with Corky on the other side of the fence

Duke is a very affectionate boy. At one point, he hopped up on the bench in the off-leash run. When I came over to pet him, he put his front paws on my shoulders for a big doggy hug and covered my face with doggy kisses, with his tail wagging like crazy. Duke is the kind of dog who thrives on human attention. He just wants to make his person happy. If you think you could be that person, come in soon to meet Duke!

Duke says, “Yep, I know I’m cute.”

Jelly the nine-year-old Chow Chow mix has been a pet her entire life, but her owners recently got divorced and neither could take her. So now she’s at the shelter, waiting for a new family to find her. Jelly is super-duper fluffy, with some of the softest fur you’ll find. One person that we passed while we were on our walk said, “It’s a teddy bear!”, which is a pretty accurate description of how adorable Jelly is.

Jelly is so fluffy!

Jelly, having years of experience as a pet, is an excellent walking buddy; she didn’t pull on the leash once. She’s currently sharing her kennel with another dog, so we know that she is dog-friendly. Jelly didn’t do anything wrong to end up at the shelter, so she’s hoping that she’ll be out of there and in a new, loving home soon. If you think that loving home could be yours, stop by soon and meet Jelly!

Jelly knows her leash manners

Scooter the six-year-old Jack Russell Terrier mix is a little cutie. If you were a fan of Wishbone (as I most certainly was), you will quickly notice that Scooter could almost be Wishbone’s twin! Scooter seems energetic inside his kennel, but he was very easy-going when we were out on our walk. Scooter would do best as the only dog in his new home and, being a Terrier, would like to have an owner who can keep him busy by teaching this middle-aged dog some new tricks!

Scooter sniffing

Scooter was a little on the shy side when we first got to the off-leash run. He started by tentatively sniffing my leg, then my hand–but before I knew it, Scooter was in my lap! He only needed a couple short minutes to warm up to this stranger. After that, we had an enjoyable time sitting on the bench together. If you’re looking for a new, fun cuddle-buddy, come to the shelter soon and say hello to Scooter!

Scooter’s cute face

I also saw Abby (who sat in my lap like the lovebug she is), Shard, Tom-Tom (who gives the biggest and best doggy hugs), Corky, Benny (who is just so gentle), and Shasta.

And don’t forget to sign up and start fundraising for the Pooch Parade on October 18!