Orphans of the Storm® Has a Wide Variety of Dogs

Orphans of the Storm® has dogs of all sizes, colors, ages, and breeds. Schedule an appointment soon to find your new forever friend!

Blocky the ten-year-old Pekingese/Shih Tzu mix is super sweet and snuggly. The moment I knelt down next to him, he put his front paws in my lap and cuddled up next to me so I could pet him. He happily joined me on the bench later and enjoyed watching the world go by as I pet him some more. His fur is so soft, and his face is too cute!

Blocky standing proud

Blocky may be a senior, but those little legs can go faster than expected! Blocky loves to romp around the yard and lead the way on walks. He gets along with other dogs, so he could go to a home with or without another dog. Blocky is currently in a foster home, so you will need to email fosterdogadopt@orphansofthestorm.org to schedule a meet-and-greet if you’re interested in him.

Blocky will be a regular on his forever family’s couch

Chase the two-year-old Labrador Retriever/Shepherd mix arrived at the shelter very shy and scared, and wasn’t too interested in leaving his kennel. He didn’t mind being picked up and carried to a quieter area, though, and gained more confidence the longer he was out and about. Once he was willing to walk, he actually did well on the leash. Chase is a sweet boy who gave my hand some gentle licks while I scratched under his chin.

Chase doesn’t mind wearing a poofy scarf around his neck on cold days

Chase can (and will!) jump fences, so he needs to go to a home where he will be closely supervised if he’s off-leash in a yard. Chase has the potential to go to a home with other dogs and with children over 10. He’s currently in a foster home where he’s getting used to being a family pet and learning that he doesn’t have to be so nervous. If you’d like to meet Chase, please email fosterdogadopt@orphansofthestorm.org to schedule a meet-and-greet.

Chase doing a little more exploring

Bandit the four-year-old Mountain Cur mix is a sweet boy with some anxiety. He can be a little nervous with new people, but once he feels comfortable with you, he really likes to snuggle. Any time I knelt down to his level, he immediately sat right next to me (sometimes on my foot) so I could pet him. Bandit likes to lead the way on walks, but doesn’t pull on the leash.

Bandit likes to stop and sniff on his walks

Bandit occasionally participates in play group but usually keeps to himself, though he has made a couple doggy friends that he will play with. Bandit prefers the company of quiet, gentle adults, so he would do best in an adult-only home where he can be the only dog. Bandit also requires an intro class before being adopted, so his new family can learn more about how to understand Bandit’s personality. If you have a quiet home that could benefit from a snuggly companion, come in soon to meet Bandit!

Bandit will be your little shadow once he feels comfortable with you

Latin the two-year-old Shepherd mix loves to both give and receive affection. He gave me a doggy hug as soon as he came out of his kennel, and gave me a few more both when we were on our walk and when we were in the Enrichment Park. He also likes to tuck his chin and bury his face in your lap while you scratch his neck and ears. Latin joined me on the bench and covered me with lots of doggy kisses, too.

Latin smiling on the bench

Latin can pull a bit when he first comes out of his kennel, but he settles down into a nice walking companion when he’s on the trail. He sniffed at some toys and watched me throw them, but wasn’t too interested in playing fetch or chewing. Latin doesn’t really enjoy larger play groups, but he still has the potential to go to a home with another dog. Be sure to say hello to Latin on your next visit to the shelter!

Latin coming in for a doggy kiss

Raptor (Hudson) the eight-year-old American Bulldog mix is super playful. He loves all kinds of toys, but especially loves playing tug-of-war with a rope toy. Raptor has it down to an art form: he brings you the toy, pokes you with it until you take the other end, and then tugs! Whenever you let go, he repeats the process. If you happen to ignore him, he drops the toy at your feet and gives a bark or two to get your attention again. Raptor also fetches toys, but still prefers to play tug when he brings it back to you.

Raptor showing off his toy collection

Raptor is also a perfect leash-walking companion. Even though he’s a big boy and could potentially be strong, he doesn’t pull at all and goes at an easy pace. Raptor will gladly stand next to you while you scratch his back and hips. He occasionally attends play group and has made a couple doggy friends. Raptor could go to a home with teenage children. If you’re looking for a fun and lovable playmate, come in soon to meet Raptor!

Raptor is a handsome boy

Sheldon the five-year-old German Shepherd mix is a smart, active boy who likes to have things to do. These activities could include walks, playtime, food puzzles, learning new tricks–Sheldon is up for all of it! Sheldon walks nicely on the leash for the most part, though he can be strong when he wants to go in a certain direction. He does best when walking with a front-clip harness.

Sheldon is also affectionate. He gives the occasional doggy hug so you can scratch his sides, and he also leans against your legs when you sit down so you can pet him some more. Sheldon can bark and pull when he passes by other dogs on the leash, but he attends play group pretty much every day and has the potential to go to a home with another dog. He’s also looking for an adult-only home or home with teenage children, with people experienced with larger working breeds like his. If that sounds like you, be sure to say hello to Sheldon on your next visit to the shelter!

This will be a common view of Sheldon because he loves getting his hips scratched

Pope the three-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix can be a little unsure of new people, especially men, but turns into a total lovebug once he gets comfortable. Pope rested his head in my lap so I could scratch his ears, and would poke my hand with his nose whenever I stopped petting him to let me know I should continue. He leaned into me so much that he eventually flopped over for a belly rub, where he contentedly closed his eyes while I pet him.

Pope enjoying a chin scratch

Pope isn’t only about the cuddles, though–he also loves to play! He particularly likes tennis balls and is great at chasing after them, and can even catch them in the air after a bounce. Pope has started to attend play group and was nervous at first, but has made a couple doggy friends so far and will probably only gain more confidence the more times he attends. Pope is looking for a cat-free home, and could also go to a home with children over 10. Give Pope a chance to show you what a sweet, happy boy he can be!

Pope loves his belly rubs

I also saw Cocoa and Roger (who has since moved to a foster home).

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Have Holiday Hope

Today and tomorrow (December 13-14), Orphans of the Storm® is participating in the BISSELL Pet Foundation Empty the Shelters Holiday Hope event. Adoption fees will be waived for dogs and cats 6 months and older. If you’ve been debating bringing home a new furry family member before the holidays, now is the perfect time!

Rooster the one-year-old Mountain Cur mix is always super excited when he realizes it’s his turn to come out for a walk. He gave me several thankful doggy hugs once he was out of his kennel (and a few nibbles on my fingers, but he is still a puppy after all). Rooster had a great time expending his energy by romping around the Enrichment Park, chasing after toys, and racing a dog on the other side of the fence.

Rooster leading the way on our walk

Rooster settles down nicely for walks, though. He’s an easy (but quick-paced) walking companion. Rooster also joined me on the bench and gave me lots of gentle doggy kisses. He is definitely a cuddler. Rooster gets excited when he passes other dogs on walks, but that’s because he loves playing with his doggy friends in play group. If you’re looking for a happy and playful puppy, come in soon to meet Rooster!

Rooster coming over for a snuggle

Poochie the two-year-old American Bulldog mix is going to be a loyal companion to his new person, because he is so attentive! When I was walking him on the leash, he would look up and check in with me often, as if he were saying, “This is okay? We’re on the same page, right?” And we always were! Poochie is a great walking buddy and very well-mannered.

Poochie has a super-cute face

Poochie enjoyed exploring around the off-leash run but came back to me often. He particularly likes getting his back and hips scratched, but any attention is welcome. Poochie is a play group regular and enjoys being with the other dogs. He’s made a couple doggy friends who he especially likes to romp around with. Poochie is a super handsome boy. Be sure to say hello to Poochie on your next visit to the shelter!

Poochie liked these long grasses

Carlos the two-year-old American Bulldog mix will immediately put a smile on your face, and that smile will only grow the longer you spend with him. He is so happy, silly, and snuggly. Carlos loves to give doggy hugs and doggy kisses–but he can jump up pretty high in the process, so watch out that he doesn’t boop your nose. Carlos is one of the few dogs I’ve seen who will turn down a treat and give the person doggy kisses instead. He particularly likes getting his hips scratched and will lean so far into you that he almost topples over.

Carlos is basically a giant puppy

Carlos loves playing with toys. Tennis balls, rubber balls, stuffed toys–whatever happens to get his attention. He’ll happily carry them in his mouth while he runs around the yard, takes a walk, or gets pet. On walks, Carlos prefers running to walking and can pull a bit if you’re not keeping up with him. Carlos gets along great with other dogs (though some bigger males aren’t as fond of him) and is a play group regular. Come in soon to see if Carlos is the dog for you!

I didn’t get a single picture of Carlos without a toy

Einstein the four-year-old German Shepherd mix is a smart boy, as his breed is known to be. He already knows “sit” and “shake” and maybe even more–and if he doesn’t know it yet, he’ll be eager to learn! Einstein likes to lead the way on walks but doesn’t pull too much. He was also fine with taking the occasional break to get some pets.

Einstein is very dapper

Einstein is pretty new to the shelter, so he was a little anxious when we were out and spent most of his time in the Enrichment Park standing by the gate and watching who walked by. He did eventually run back and forth a couple times to expel some of his energy and had a doggy smile on his face while he did so. If you’re a German Shepherd fan, come by the shelter soon to meet Einstein!

Einstein says, “Hello there!”

I also saw Peanut and Red, and played with not-yet-profiled puppy Ruby (who loves to get belly rubs and is very nice about letting go of toys when you ask her to).

Most play groups were cancelled this week due to the cold weather, but I was able to get in some extra walks with Barney, Jupiter, Polly (who is attending weekly obedience classes and already graduated to Level 2), and Turbo.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs on a Drizzly Day

It was a little damp at Orphans of the Storm®, but the dogs didn’t seem to mind! (My camera did, though, so I apologize for the blurry photos.)

Prince the three-year-old German Shepherd/Pit Bull Terrier mix gave me a doggy hug accompanied by a very happy wagging tail as soon as I let him out of his kennel. Even when I let him off-leash in the Enrichment Park, he decided he would rather give me another doggy hug than go play. Prince is a very snuggly pooch! He also likes to give the occasional doggy kiss.

Prince taking a break from his squeaker snowman

Prince has plenty of energy. He enjoyed romping around the Enrichment Park and playing with a squeaky toy. He’s one of those dogs who can play fetch with himself. Prince is a pretty good walking companion, but in general likes to walk at a quicker pace. He was happy to take a break every once in a while to put his front paws in my lap and get more pets. Prince gets along with children, so he could go to a family home. Be sure to say hello to Prince on your next visit to the shelter!

Prince wanted to nibble on some of the leaves and wood chips

Rachel the three-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix loves people so, so much. Meet her once, and she will greet you like her best friend forever after. This greeting includes a doggy hug and covering your entire face in lots of doggy kisses. Rachel has one of the most waggy tails I’ve encountered. Her tail was wagging so hard when I was petting her that she knocked my camera out of my hand!

Rachel is a ray of sunshine!

Rachel particularly loves getting her hips and sides scratched. She does a little dance and looks at you with a big doggy smile. Rachel is a nice walking companion, which is good because she’s a little on the chunky side and could use regular walks to shed a few pounds in her new home. Rachel has participated in a few play groups and is getting more comfortable with the other dogs each time. If you’re looking for an extra-happy girl to join your home, come in soon to meet Rachel!

Rachel didn’t mind getting her white paws a little muddy

Reno the four-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is one of the strongest dogs at the shelter right now, but don’t let that deter you! He’s a very friendly boy. He just likes to lead the way and decide where to go on his walks–however, he isn’t stubborn about it and will start following you if you want to go a different direction. Reno also likes spending time in the yard and enjoyed following his nose all the way around the perimeter of the Enrichment Park.

Reno enjoying the outdoors

Reno sniffed at a squeaky toy but wasn’t too interested in chasing after it on this particular outing. He gets along with other dogs and attends play group a couple times a week. Even though he might seem like the rough-and-tumble type, Reno’s actually pretty mellow with the other dogs. Stop by the shelter soon to see if Reno is the one for you!

Reno has one adorable floppy ear and one adorable perky ear

Joan the eleven-month-old Shepherd mix has lots of puppy playfulness. She loves toys and playing fetch, either with a person or with herself. She also enjoys going to play group and being with the other dogs. Joan is speedy, so she prefers playing tag (either being the chaser or the chased). Joan has attended some off-site events and enjoys all of the attention she gets.

Joan showing off her pretty blue eye

Joan is also affectionate. She likes to give doggy hugs and will happily stand on her back legs for as long as you keep petting her. She gives the occasional doggy kiss too. Joan especially likes getting scratched on her sides and will snuggle up against you when you kneel down to her level. Joan walks nicely on the leash and rarely pulls. If you’re looking for a sweet puppy, come in soon to meet Joan!

Joan is slim and agile

I also saw Blush, Chance, Sox, and Turbo (who is talkative in his kennel, but really calms down once he’s out on the trail and away from the other barking dogs).

Play group included Alec(k), Cass, Chance, Cocoa, Donny, Joan, John Boy, Polly, Quinn, and Tommy, as well as not-yet-profiled dogs Al, Dipper, Henry Hippo, Inca, Isabelle, June Bug, Preston, Sam Parker, Seadra, Willah, and Xandria.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Offer Lots of Love

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

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

Sadie sniffing around

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

Sadie enjoying a nice scratch on the hips

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

Turk was proud of this large stick

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

Turk likes to be active

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

Chance was a blur in all of his photos

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

Chance prefers moving to being still

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

Tommy with a big smile

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

Tommy using his ears as wings

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

Lars appreciating a side scratch

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

Lars has the cutest folded ear

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

Reese relaxing

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

Reese having some yard time

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

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

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Want to Join Your Labor Day BBQ

Orphans of the Storm® will be closed this Monday, September 2, for Labor Day–but open our regular hours on Saturday and Sunday! So you still have time to find a new furry friend before the holiday.

Lobo the one-year-old German Shepherd mix is a happy, well-behaved pup. Even though he’s barely out of puppyhood, Lobo already has several qualities that will make him a great pet. For example, he’s housebroken, walks nicely on the leash, and gets along with kids. Lobo is also affectionate. He put his head in my lap so I could pet him, and also gave me a couple doggy kisses.

Lobo taking a cuddle break

Lobo likes to play and particularly likes tennis balls. He’s happy to both play fetch and just carry the ball around in his mouth. But he knows that playtime is different from walk time, and dropped the tennis ball as soon as I put his leash back on. Lobo participates in play groups. He was a little nervous with the other dogs at first but is getting more comfortable each time and likes to sniff all the other dogs hello. Be sure to say hello to Lobo on your next visit to the shelter!

Lobo happy with his tennis ball

Enzo the one-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix has the cutest face, but is so camera-shy that I couldn’t get a picture to do him justice! Enzo enjoys rolling on his back in the grass and getting belly rubs at the same time. He already knows the “sit” command and might know a few others–but if he doesn’t for sure, he will be a quick learner!

Enzo leading the way around the trail

Enzo prefers to walk at a quick pace but doesn’t pull too much on the leash as long as you’re keeping up with him. He participates in play groups and enjoys being with other dogs. He particularly likes to play tag and the other fast dogs like playing tag with him! Enzo is quickly becoming a volunteer favorite. Come in soon to see why!

Enzo refusing to look at the camera

I also saw Barney, Delilah, Snow White, Sonny, Sox, and Turbo.

The play group I went to this week included Alec(k), Brutus, Cass, Cocoa, Donny, Dunkin the Red, John Boy, Leia, Lucy, Polly, Quinn, and Roscoe, as well as not-yet-profiled dogs Al, Chance, Joan, Major, Rose, Tennessee, Tex, and Val.

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

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

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

Apollo is always alert

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

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

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

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

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

Marnie’s ears are extra floppy

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

Taz is a precious pup

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

Taz enjoys a thorough sniff through the grass

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

Karma is a pretty girl

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

Karma has plenty of fluff to go around

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

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

Here is a success story from Rubina about her family’s new dog, Lily (formerly Belle). This story shows that it can sometimes take a few tries for a dog to find their right home, but when they do, it’s extra sweet!

We found Lily (Belle) our new best friend, 5-year-old German Shepherd/Border Collie mix girl. As history goes, she was saved from a kill shelter by Orphans of the Storm® and then was adopted by an old lady who returned her as she was too much for her, and once again returned by another couple who had her for just 2 nights. Terrible! My daughter had gone to volunteer at Orphans and we all fell in love with Lily in those 3 hours we spent with her. Being a clean freak, I have to say Orphans does a wonderful job of keeping their animals and their kennels clean.

We went back to the shelter the next day and brought her home and she has been nothing but a bundle of joy since then. Luckily, she is house-trained, but quite a fussy eater. She is playful and super smart. A little nervous at times, probably from what she has been through for the past few weeks… scared of rain and froggies, but quite the strong independent lady when it comes to meeting other big dogs! She loves to run and is super friendly to kids. My husband, who is scared of all animals, had warmed up to her in the last 3 days… really that’s got to say something about Lily’s personality. We hope to give her a good life and I believe in my heart that pleasure will be ALL ours while she is with us. We are a happier family with sweet Lily!!

Thank you for sharing your story with us, Rubina!

If you have an Orphans of the Storm® success story that you would like posted on this site, please email meetthepooches@gmail.com.

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 Enjoyed a Warm Winter Day

The dogs at Orphans of the Storm® certainly don’t mind that our winter got off to a mild start–it meant longer, more enjoyable walks this past weekend!

Dopey the eight-year-old Great Pyrenees mix is a sweet, mellow boy. He loves getting attention and will stand at your side while you scratch his ears or pet his back. Dopey is equally happy to meander around the yard and sniff. He’s also up for a good game of fetch! (Though I tried to play with him and another dog simultaneously and since Dopey was bigger, he accidentally ran his buddy over trying to get to the toy.)

Dopey keeping an eye on things

Dopey gets along well with other dogs. He was sharing his kennel with a smaller dog who has since been adopted, and he liked following her around the run and doing whatever she did. Dopey walks nicely on the leash. If you’re looking for a happy, easy-going guy who could be fine as the only pet or as a companion to another dog, Dopey could be your guy. Come in soon to meet Dopey!

Dopey is more of a Happy, if you ask me!

Wally the five-year-old black Labrador Retriever mix is always eager to go for a walk. When he first comes out of his kennel, he can be extra excited and want to get off to a running start. After we ran around the first half of the woodland preserve, though, Wally settled into a (quick) walking pace and took the opportunity to sniff through the bushes and tall grasses.

Wally is usually in “oh boy oh boy!” mode

Wally enjoys getting pet. Once he got his initial burst of energy out of his system, he was happy to pause every once in a while so I could pet him. Wally gets along with other dogs and was sharing his kennel with another dog who has since been adopted, so he could go to a home with or without a furry friend. Be sure to say hello to Wally on your next visit to the shelter!

Wally likes to follow his own path

Eve the four-year-old Shepherd/Mountain Cur mix absolutely loves going for walks. She was very mellow when we were in the off-leash run, but when I asked if she wanted to go for a walk, she completely lit up and went straight for the gate. Then we were off and running around the woodland preserve! After her initial excitement wore off, she settled into being a good walking companion.

Eve investigating the toys

Eve likes a good cuddle. She’ll come up and lean against your legs. She particularly likes getting her hips scratched and will do a little dance for you when you scratch the right spot. Eve didn’t pay any attention to the other dogs we passed during our walk, but she would prefer to be the only dog in her future home. She would also do best in an adults-only home. If that sounds like your situation, stop by soon to meet Eve!

Eve’s cute face

Gus the six-year-old German Shepherd mix is a big boy–so big that his front paws are practically the same size as my hands! But don’t let his size intimidate you. Gus is a big softie. He put his paws in my lap and gave me some doggy kisses. He also enjoyed getting a belly rub. When I sat down on the bench, he rolled right over next to my feet and licked my hand and arm while I pet him.

Gus is so handsome

Gus seemed a little unsure when he first came out of his kennel and kept looking up at me as we made our way to the woodland preserve. Once we got there, though, Gus was eager to get a move on. His walk is the same pace as my run, so we walked/ran most of the way around. Gus also liked having a chance to stop and sniff every once in a while. This handsome boy was already getting a lot of attention when I was there, so if you think he might be the one for you, come in soon to say hello to Gus!

Gus being a good walking buddy

I also saw Balto, Bella, Brutus, Chase, Diamond (Riley), Donny, Dunkin, Goliath, John Boy, Nash, Shyanne (aka Cheyenne, who greeted me with a doggy hug, then when I put her paws back on the ground jumped back up to give me a second doggy hug before continuing on her walk with another volunteer), Thunder, Vanilla, and Wombat.

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.