Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Have Paws o’ Gold

Apologies for the long silence! It’s been a few months, but the pooches at Orphans of the Storm® are still eager to meet their new forever families.

This weekend is the last few days of Orphans of the Storm®’s Paws o’ Gold adoption event for St. Patrick’s Day. Through March 21st, if you adopt a senior animal (7+ years), or an animal that has been at the shelter longer than 6 months, ALL fees are sponsored, including vet fees (at Orphans’ partner vet only). Any adoption also receives a goodie bag to help get you and your new best friend started. For more information and to see the full list of eligible dogs and cats for this event, see the Facebook event page.

And here are some dogs who are younger and newer to Orphans of the Storm®, but ready for it to be their lucky day!

Cheerio the three-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix loves toys–and loves having lots of options for toys, so his future home will need to be well stocked! Cheerio took the lid off the toy bin all by himself and then climbed into the bin so he could check out every toy available before deciding on the ones he wanted to play with. Cheerio enjoys playing fetch, but his favorite is tug of war. Whenever I let go of the toy, he brought it right back and nudged me with it until I took it and started tugging again. Cheerio already knows “sit” and is very treat-motivated, so he’ll be a fast learner when it comes to new tricks.

Cheerio is the best playmate

Cheerio likes to lead the way on walks and moves at a quick pace. He has the potential to be a great jogging partner, because he doesn’t stop to sniff too often. When I sat down on the bench, though, Cheerio was happy to pause and joined me for some snuggles and lots of kisses. Cheerio has gone to off-site events and gets along with people of all ages, including children. He prefers the company of people rather than other animals, though, so he’s looking for a home where he can be the only pet. Come in soon to meet Cheerio!

Cheerio is a smiley boy

Bonus photo of Cheerio climbing inside the toy bin

Reina the five-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a little shy and skittish, but is coming out of her shell more every day. She has a very serious and regal look that matches her name perfectly. Reina did some exploring around the yard and likes to keep an eye on what’s happening around her or who is walking by. After she finished going around the yard, she came over to get some pets before waiting by the gate to let me know she was ready to go for a walk.

Reina has the pointiest ears!

Reina likes to lead the way on walks, but that’s mostly because she’s eager to get back to her kennel. Once settled in a home where she feels safe and comfortable, she’ll probably be much calmer on walks. She did take a few breaks with me, though, and happily joined me on the bench for some more cuddles and even gave me a couple gentle doggy kisses. Reina attends play group and was a little unsure during her first visit, but is making more dog friends and getting more comfortable. She prefers the company of gentler dogs like herself. This sweet girl is ready for a home to call her own, so make an appointment soon to meet her!

Reina the queen says, “I have no time for peasants.”

Bruno the two-year-old Great Dane/Pit Bull Terrier mix gets excited when it’s his turn to come out for a walk. He can be a little overenthusiastic for the first few seconds and likes to jump up as a greeting, but once he gets on the trail, he is actually extremely easy to walk. He goes at an easy pace and likes to stop and sniff. Bruno is very strong when he wants to be, though, so if he decides to go in a particular direction then that’s probably the direction you’re going to go! Bruno is looking for a home that has experience with large, strong breeds.

Bruno being an excellent walking companion

Bruno loves toys and is good at chasing after them, and sometimes good at returning them. He also loves just romping around in open space, so he would appreciate having a fenced yard to call his own where he can play and stretch his legs. Bruno occasionally attends play group but would do best as the only pet in his new home (he thinks cats are toys). He would also do best in a home with teenagers or just adults, since his size and strength might be too much for younger children. Bruno is a sweet, goofy boy looking for a home that understands him. If you think that’s you, make an appointment to come in and meet Bruno!

Bruno is a cutie

I also saw Bjork, who I haven’t spent much time with since I first wrote about her in October, but she was her same playful and affectionate self—lots of belly rubs, doggy kisses, and toy-chewing were involved!

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Will Warm Up Your Summer

The dogs at Orphans of the Storm® are ready to get their summers off to a sunny start by finding their new forever homes!

Pumpkin the four-year-old Boxer mix has experience as a family dog and is ready to find a new family to join. She was adopted several months ago but returned because she was jumping the fence and not getting along with other dogs in her neighborhood. So, Pumpkin is looking for a home where she can go on leashed walks or be closely supervised in a fenced yard.

Pumpkin keeping an eye on things

Pumpkin loves people and gets along with kids and even babies. She politely sits while getting her leash put on, without even being asked. Pumpkin is a great walking companion. She also likes to cuddle and get pet. Pumpkin attends play groups and sometimes plays with the other dogs, but more often keeps to herself or tries to initiate pets from the humans in the yard. She would prefer to be the only dog in her new home.  Come in soon to see if Pumpkin is the pooch for you!

Pumpkin in a little bit of rain

Brady the three-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix is an active, playful guy. He can pull a bit on the leash when he first comes out of his kennel or if he sees something exciting, but will also eventually slow down to enjoy some sniffing along the trail. Brady liked romping around the off-leash run and exploring along the fence line. He often has a doggy smile on his cute white face.

Brady knows how to smile for the camera

Brady gets along well with other dogs. He arrived at the shelter with his sister, who has since been adopted. He also attends play groups and particularly enjoys the company of Jackson (see below). Brady liked sniffing at toys and poking them with his nose, but wasn’t too interested in playing fetch on this outing. Stop by the shelter soon to meet Brady!

Brady following his nose

CoCo and Scooby the six-year-old Great Dane mixes found themselves at the shelter because their family was moving and couldn’t bring them with. They’re hoping to find a new home together–and it will hopefully be a large home, because these are two of the largest (and strongest) dogs I’ve walked!

CoCo has white socks!

CoCo and Scooby occasionally attend play groups, but since they’re so much bigger than everyone else, they make some of the other dogs a bit nervous and tense. They can also be bark-y around other dogs when they’re on the leash or on opposite sides of the fence (CoCo more so than Scooby).

Scooby is a handsome boy

Scooby seems to be the more affectionate of the two. He often came back to me while exploring the off-leash run so he could cuddle and give me a couple doggy kisses. CoCo did more exploring on his own, but he also poked my nose with his nose once or twice and liked getting scratched on his hips. If you have the space in your home and your heart for these two big brothers, come in soon to meet CoCo and Scooby!

CoCo and Scooby finding out what’s behind the bushes

Athena the one-year-old Hound mix is very friendly and affectionate. She gave me a doggy hug as soon as she came out of her kennel and was always attentive to where I was when we were in the Enrichment Park. I’m not sure how much training she’s had since she’s barely out of puppyhood, but she did come running over when I called her.

Athena being attentive

Athena can pull a bit on the leash when she first comes out of her kennel, but settles into a nice walking companion after she has a chance to romp around and get some of her excess energy out. Athena is currently sharing her kennel with Jackson (see below) but was a little tentative and nervous when she went into a larger play group. Be sure to say hello to happy Athena on your next visit to the shelter!

Athena caught in a blink

Jackson the eleven-month-old Black and Tan Coonhound mix is super sweet. He likes to snuggle and will tuck his head into you. He also gave me a couple gentle doggy kisses. Being a Hound, Jackson likes to follow his nose and take his time exploring. He criss-crossed the Enrichment Park in order to find all of the interesting smells.

Jackson has super floppy ears (cameo by Athena in the back)

Jackson walks nicely on the leash and is pretty calm overall, especially for a puppy. He is currently sharing his kennel with Athena (see above) and also attends play group regularly. He interacts nicely with the other dogs and particularly enjoyed the company of Brady (see above), so he could go to a home with or without a doggy friend. If you’re looking for a lovable and loving pup, come in soon to meet Jackson!

Jackson doing what Hounds do best

Beatrix the five-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix is very attentive to her person. When we were on our walk around the woodland preserve, Beatrix often paused to look up at me and confirm that we were still on the same page. She alternates between walking at an easy-going, meandering pace and speeding up to follow an interesting scent trail, but she doesn’t pull much on the leash.

Beatrix has such a smooshy face

Beatrix also likes to be close to her person. When I knelt down next to her, she leaned against me so much that I almost toppled over! She wanted to be as close as possible without actually climbing into my lap. Although Beatrix loves the company of people, she doesn’t seem too fond of other dogs and would probably do best as the only dog in her new home. Stop by the shelter soon to meet Beatrix!

Beatrix enjoying the outdoors

I also saw Alec(k), Anna, Barney (who loves splashing around in the puppy pool), Clyde the Heeler (who just wants to spend all of his time snuggling with you), John Boy, Pony Boy, Sox, and YoYo (Yeyo).

My first play group this week included Alec(k), Brutus, Cheyenne (Shyanne), Clyde the Heeler, Cocoa (who is getting better in larger groups), Elijah, Gia (Pippa), Huckleberry, John Boy, Maggie, Pumpkin, Tom, Whizzer, and YoYo (Yeyo). Snow White also had a one-on-one with Huckleberry. The not-yet-profiled dogs were Bandi, Bruno, Emma, Gilbert, Marcie, Polly, and Vannah.

My second play group included Alec(k), Brutus, Cass, Cheyenne (Shyanne), Clyde the Heeler, Delilah, Donny, Elijah, Jackson, John Boy, Maggie, Mojo, Quinn, Romeo, Sasha, Sox, Spike (who is doing great in larger groups), Whizzer, and YoYo (Yeyo). Barney also had a one-on-one with Cocoa. Not-yet-profiled dogs included Bogo, Bruno, Emma, Gilbert, Maizie, Pepsi, and Polly.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Orphans of the Storm® Sweetie-Pie Dogs

If you are particularly interested in snuggly, cuddly dogs, now is a good time to stop by Orphans of the Storm®! Small dogs aren’t the only ones who can be lapdogs–there are plenty of big dogs who are ready to hop into your lap too!

Hamilton the 10-month-old Great Dane mix gave me a doggy hug as soon as he came out of his kennel, which was more like a human hug because Hamilton is as tall as a person when he’s standing on his back legs. Hamilton can be a bit of a handful when he first comes out and likes to chew on the leash a bit, but he settles down once you start on your walk. Since he’s still a puppy, it’s only understandable that he has plenty of energy.

Hamilton is plenty perky!

Hamilton is a fun boy. He likes to chase toys, though he hasn’t fully grasped the concept of “fetch” yet and just likes carrying the toys around in his mouth. Hamilton is under the impression that he is a lapdog, even though only a small portion of him can fit in a person’s lap. He’s also happy to give doggy kisses while he’s sitting on you. Hamilton would do best in an adult home. If you’re looking for a tall, dark, and handsome guy, come in soon to meet Hamilton!

Hamilton will be happy to join his future family on the couch

Tyson the one-year-old Labrador Retriever mix is the most snuggly pup. I first met him three weeks ago, when he was too scared to walk on the leash so he just cuddled in my lap the whole time. This week, he was much more confident and happy to lead the way around the woodland preserve! Tyson walks nicely on the leash and also seems to get along with most other dogs.

Tyson has the cutest face when he’s enjoying a belly rub

Tyson loves belly rubs and sitting in people’s laps. Any time you sit or kneel, Tyson thinks that is an invitation to literally flop onto you. He will very contentedly stay in your lap until you move. He also sometimes stops in the middle of walking and sits on your feet so you can pet him some more. Tyson will need an extra loving home to help him come out of his shell even more. If you’re looking for an extra lovey-dovey dog, be sure to say hello to Tyson!

Tyson will never be far from your side

Artemis the four-year-old Doberman Pinscher mix likes being close to his person. The first thing he did when he came out of his kennel was nuzzle his head against my leg. When we were on our walk around the woodland preserve, Artemis sometimes walked so close to me that his side was touching my leg. A natural heeler! Artemis does a great job on the leash overall and didn’t pull at all.

Artemis exploring the run

Artemis seems like a pretty mellow guy. When we were in the off-leash run, he just meandered around and sniffed. He wasn’t too interested in toys when we were together. Artemis likes getting pet, especially on the side of his neck, and he’ll lean into your hand so you get the right spot. Artemis didn’t seem too fond of other dogs we passed, but it was easy enough to redirect his attention. Come in soon to see if Artemis is the one for you!

Artemis is handsome

Balto the seven-year-old Husky mix is such a handsome boy. I have heard multiple people say “Wow” when they see him. He has bright blue eyes and a particularly majestic look. Balto gave me a doggy hug right away when he came out of his kennel, and gave me a couple more when we were out and about. Balto particularly enjoys getting his hips scratched and will do a little dance for you.

Balto smiles during snuggle time

Balto is a good walking companion. He prefers to go at a faster pace, but doesn’t pull at all. Whenever I stopped walking, he would stop too and sit at my feet so I could pet him. We had a nice time sitting next to each other, just enjoying the outdoors. Balto would do best in an adult home with an experienced dog owner who knows what his breed needs. If that sounds like you, stop by soon to say hello to Balto!

Balto in his element

I also saw Bella, Big Boy and Mojo, Bo, Carlos, Diamond, Goliath, Harley and Reeco, Kaffee, Scotty, and Wombat.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Who Are All About the Cuddles

It was a hot day at Orphans of the Storm®, so it was a little hard to tell if the dogs I met this week are always mellow, or if they were just taking it easy to keep cool. One thing was for certain, though: all of these pooches love to cuddle! I almost never include myself in photos of the dogs, but there were so many lapdogs this week that it was a challenge to get solo shots!

Trooper the two-year-old Hound mix gave me a doggy hug as soon as he came out of his kennel. He was so excited that he got chosen to go for a walk and seemed to be saying, “Thank you, thank you, thank you!” Trooper is not shy about sharing affection. In addition to doggy hugs, he also likes to give doggy kisses and will put his front paws in your lap when you’re sitting down.

Trooper is so handsome

Trooper particularly enjoys getting his hips scratched and will lean to the left or right depending on which side you’re scratching, and lick your hands while you’re at it. Trooper walks nicely on the leash, though he can pull a little bit at first when he’s extra excited. Trooper is looking for a quiet adult home where he can be with people who will return all of the affection he offers. Stop in soon to see if Trooper is the one for you!

Trooper says, “Well hello there”

Sela the eight-month-old Labrador Retriever/Great Dane mix is an absolute sweetheart. Her description makes her sound like a big dog, but she’s currently a nice medium size. After Sela did some exploring in the off-leash run, she hopped up onto the bench with me and snuggled in my lap. She also gave me a few doggy kisses. Neither of us wanted to get up!

Sela is a true lapdog

Sela is an attentive walking buddy. Every so often she would pause and look up at me while we were making our way around the woodland preserve, just to check in and make sure she was doing a good job (which she was). Sela is currently sharing her kennel with Oliver, so she could go to a home with or without another dog. Be sure to say hello to Sela on your next visit to the shelter!

Sela knows how to keep cool

Biscuit the five-year-old Labrador Retriever/Heeler mix is a happy girl with a wagging tail. We first spent some time in the off-leash run, where Biscuit explored on her own for a few minutes but then decided she would rather snuggle in the shade with me. She hopped up on the bench, put her front paws in my lap, and gave me a few doggy kisses. Biscuit enjoyed getting her sides rubbed.

Biscuit’s sweet face

Biscuit and I then went for a walk around the woodland preserve. She’s a good walking companion overall, though she did have a few bursts of excitement where she wanted to run before determining it was too hot for such an activity. Biscuit also liked having the chance to stop and sniff around in the tall grass. Come in soon to meet Biscuit!

Biscuit leading the way on our walk

Big Boy the five-year-old Boxer mix is a friendly boy. The first thing we did when Big Boy came out of his kennel was get a quick hose-down. Big Boy stood still nicely, which is a good sign that he probably won’t mind getting baths in the future. Big Boy also loves getting his back scratched and does a little dance when you get the right spot.

Big Boy’s face of contentment

Big Boy is also affectionate. He wasn’t too sure about getting all the way onto the bench, but he put his front paws in my lap and stretched his neck so he could give me doggy kisses. Big Boy is currently sharing his kennel with Mojo (see below), and although they don’t have to be adopted together, they certainly make a good-looking pair. Say hello to Big Boy on your next visit!

Big Boy between kisses

Mojo the five-year-old Boxer mix can be a little shy at first, but she warms up quickly and enjoys being pet. Mojo wasn’t overly enthused about getting hosed down when she first came out of her kennel, but she was a good sport about it anyway. Mojo spent most of her time in the off-leash run exploring in and around the bushes, where it was probably cooler.

Mojo chilling in the shade

Mojo eventually made her way over to me and then stood by my side while I pet her. She has such sweet facial expressions! Mojo is currently sharing her kennel with Big Boy (see above), so she could go to a home with or without another dog (maybe even Big Boy, since they look so cute together). Stop in soon to see if Mojo is the right next addition to your family!

Mojo waiting to be pet some more

Lady the five-year-old Beagle mix is super mellow. She was getting her official photo taken for the Orphans of the Storm® website when I first came over, and once she sat nicely for the camera she didn’t want to get back up! So we relaxed in the shady grass for a few minutes while I pet her. Lady eventually decided she was ready for a walk and popped right up.

Lady is all smiles

Lady‘s tail wagged the entire time we were at the woodland preserve. Lady is a great walking buddy and also didn’t mind taking occasional breaks for more cuddling. Lady gets along with other dogs. She is currently sharing her kennel with a larger dog, and also politely sniffed another Beagle while we were on our walk. Be sure to say hi to sweet Lady on your next visit to the shelter!

Lady is such a cutie

I also saw Bella, Bud, Chester and Te Amo, Gunner, Hobbs, Honey Lamb, Lucy, Lukas, Sammy, Sir (Sammy and Sir are now great playmates with each other!), Snuffles, Toby, and Tyson.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs in Warm Weather

It felt more like May than February two weekends ago, and the dogs at Orphans of the Storm® were all eager for a chance to come out and enjoy the nice weather.

Wilbur the two-year-old Beagle mix was happy to lead the way as soon as his leash was on. We headed to the woodland preserve, where Wilbur enjoyed doing his Hound thing by keeping his nose mostly to the ground. Wilbur walks nicely on the leash (except for when it’s time to go back to his kennel, in which case he stops walking until you give him lots of petting and encouragement).

Wilbur enjoys a good scratch on the back

Wilbur likes to snuggle. He’ll gladly lean against you as long as you’re petting him. He also tried to climb into my lap at one point when I was kneeling next to him. Wilbur would do best in an adult home that doesn’t get too many visitors, but will be a loyal companion for his new owners. Come in soon to see if Wilbur is the one for you!

Wilbur leading the way on our walk

Brix the five-year-old Boxer/Plott mix has plenty of energy and is looking for an energetic family to match. Brix likes to give doggy hugs and will occasionally top it off with a doggy kiss. He’s a happy boy who knows how to smile for the camera. When he’s extra excited, he jumps up and down like, “Oh boy oh boy oh boy!”

Brix is happy all the time

Brix and I took a lap around the woodland preserve. Brix would have preferred to go at a faster speed and pulled on the leash a bit, but was also nice about turning around and waiting for me to catch up. Brix was sharing his kennel with another dog, so he could go to a home with or without another furry friend. If you’re looking for a new exercise buddy and playmate, come in soon to meet Brix!

Brix is an expert at making funny faces

Max the eight-year-old Great Dane and Rye the eleven-year-old Australian Cattle Dog mix are a bit of an odd couple, but an adorable and lovable one! The two came from a military family who was transferred and couldn’t take them along. Max and Rye have been together for years, so they need to be adopted together.

The perfect duo

Max is basically a horse. He’s probably taller than most people are if he were to stand on his hind legs. But Max is very gentle and easygoing. He mostly stayed near me when we were in the off-leash run. He particularly likes getting scratched on his hips and will do a little dance and/or lean against you. Max’s future owner can’t be too opposed to doggy drool, because Max makes a lot of it.

Max showing off his spots

Max’s big (cute) nose

Rye is smallish for a Cattle Dog and Max makes him look even smaller by comparison. Rye can easily walk underneath his big little brother. Rye doesn’t get too worked up over things. Another dog was barking at him on the other side of the fence, but Rye just looked at him for a minute and then continued on his way.

Rye is a little cutie

Rye is a mellow guy

Both Max and Rye seem like they walk pretty nicely on the leash, though we didn’t go to the woodland preserve for a full walk. Adopting a bonded pair like this is great because your new family members will have built-in friends and can help each other adjust to a new home. If you have the space in your heart and home for two dogs (one extra-large), stop in soon to meet Max and Rye!

Roxy the four-year-old Rottweiler/Shepherd mix is a pretty girl who likes being around people. We first went to the off-leash run, where Roxy sniffed a bit at one of the doggy toys but didn’t seem overly interested in playing fetch. Roxy is very snuggly, but prefers to snuggle on her own terms. She’ll lean against you and even tuck her head into your arm, but gets a little nervous if you get right in her face.

Roxy glows in the sunshine

Roxy and I then went for a walk around the woodland preserve. Roxy walks nicely on the leash and didn’t really pull at all. Roxy would do best as the only dog in her new home. She also prefers to be around older children and adults. If that sounds like your home, be sure to say hi to Roxy on your next visit!

Roxy ignoring the ball behind her

Tater the two-year-old Labrador Retriever mix is a friendly boy. The first thing he did when he came out of his kennel was give me a doggy hug. We then took a walk around the woodland preserve. Tater walks at a quick pace but doesn’t pull as long as you’re keeping up with him.

Tater says hello!

Tater was happy to take a break from our walk every once in a while and join me on the bench for a quick cuddle session. He also gave me a few doggy kisses. Tater can get a little excited or distracted when other dogs are nearby, but it seems like giving him a treat is a good way to get him refocused. Stop in soon to say hello to Tater!

Tater hanging out on the bench

I also saw Blaze, Lucy, O’Shea, the other Roxy, Scotty, and Wombat.

Orphans of the Storm® Big Dog and Small Dog

Whether you’re looking for a larger dog or a smaller dog, Orphans of the Storm® has them all! This week, I met one dog from each end of the spectrum.

Seguoi the two-year-old Chihuahua mix is a little cutie. He barks a bit when you walk past his kennel, but that’s because he’s saying, “Look at me!” Once you do stop and say hello, the barking stops. He also didn’t make a peep the entire time we were out on our walk. Seguoi may look like a lapdog, and he certainly can be, but he also likes going for walks and was eager to take the lead.

Seguoi’s little paws and big ears

Seguoi gets along with other dogs. He’s currently sharing his kennel with Mini Me, who is closer to his size, but he also doesn’t seem to mind bigger dogs (unlike some other Chihuahuas who have “Little Dog Syndrome” and try to act tough) and basically ignored Diamond, who was in the run next to us and wanted to race. Seguoi was fine with being picked up, and I set him on the bench next to me where he seemed to enjoy having a new, taller view of the world. Stop by soon to see if Seguoi is the pooch for you!

Seguoi’s short legs were always on the move

Blondie the three-year-old Husky/Great Dane mix is already becoming a volunteer favorite. As soon as I walked into the shelter this week, one of the other volunteers said, “You have to take out this new Husky!” and I’m glad I followed their advice. He is a very handsome boy, with that blonde fur and bright blue eyes. Although Blondie was a little shy at first, he ended up being very easy-going.

Blondie was very interested in the camera

Blondie politely sniffed the dog on the other side of the fence while we were in the run, but mostly kept to himself as he followed his nose. He occasionally stopped by me so I could pet his back. Then we went for a walk around the woodland preserve, where Blondie showed off what an excellent walking companion he is. He didn’t pull at all, and stayed either right by my side or just a couple steps ahead of me. When we stopped at a bench, Blondie gave me a doggy kiss and rested his chin in my lap. Come in soon to meet Blondie!

Blondie will be sure to catch your eye

I also saw Bella (one of my personal faves–if big dogs are your style, check her out!), Candice, Duke, Lucky, Lucy, Merlin, Mia (whose brother Marley has already been adopted, so if you only have room for one big dog at the moment, now is a good time!), Miller, Molly (who greeted me with a big doggy hug and doggy kisses), Trixie, and Zoey.

Orphans of the Storm® Big and Bigger Dogs

We have quite the lineup for you today! It was a beautiful weekend and the dogs at Orphans of the Storm® were all eager to spend some time outside. Six of the seven new dogs I met were big (or extra-big), so if you’re looking for a larger new companion, now is the time to come in to the shelter!

Smalls the three-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix isn’t small in any sense, actually. This big, lovable boy is a sweetheart whose tail wags pretty much constantly. We first spent time in the off-leash run, where Smalls had a good time romping and exploring and sniffing the dogs on the other side of the fence. He wasn’t too interested in playing fetch, but maybe he could learn when he has a yard to call his own!

Smalls knows to smile for the camera

Smalls will give you plenty of affection once he gets to know you. He gave me some doggy kisses when I was kneeling next to him and was happy to stand by my side as long as I was petting him. He has a big, adorable face and when he smiles, you just have to smile back! We then went for a walk around the woodland preserve trail and it turns out that Smalls is an excellent walking buddy who barely pulls at all. Stop by soon to see if Smalls is the one for you!

Smalls in the sunshine

Chun-Li the two-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix is this week’s smallest dog. She’s like a miniature version of her breed, if such a thing existed. Although I personally didn’t try, Chun-Li is definitely small enough to carry. There were several people who stopped and cooed when they saw how small and adorable Chun-Li is. But Chun-Li isn’t just about looks! She has a great personality to match.

I just want to put Chun-Li in my pocket!

Chun-Li is super affectionate. When I sat down on the ground, she climbed right into my lap and wiggled around until she got comfy. She also gave me lots of doggy kisses. At one point she tried to join me on the bench, but it seemed like a little too high of a jump for her. She was pretty polite when it came to sniffing dogs on the other side of the fence when we were in the off-leash run. A cutie-patootie like Chun-Li won’t be around for long, so come in soon to meet her!

Chun-Li says, “Help me up!”

Yeller the four-year-old yellow Labrador Retriever mix is a nice boy who mostly kept to himself, particularly at the beginning when we were still getting to know each other. We started in the off-leash run, where Yeller followed his nose around the whole perimeter. He would occasionally pass by me so I could scratch his back or under his chin.

Yeller enjoying the outdoors

Yeller is a big fan of going for walks, as opposed to just hanging out in a yard. He walks at a brisk pace, but doesn’t pull as long as you’re keeping up with him. He didn’t try to stray off the trail or chase any birds or squirrels; he just enjoyed being outside for a stroll. I tried to stop and take a break at one of the benches along the trail so we could sit and relax together, but Yeller just wanted to keep moving. If you’re looking for a new walking companion, definitely come in to meet Yeller!

Yeller often had his nose to the ground

Marley the four-year-old Great Dane/Labrador Retriever mix came to the shelter with Mia (see below) after their owners got divorced and neither felt they could care for both dogs. They are very much a bonded pair and would love to find a new home together. Marley falls into the “extra-big” category, but he’s still smaller than Mia! Marley is a playful pooch who was off and running as soon as he was out of his kennel (with the leash on, of course). He is too funny. There was a bumblebee flying around the off-leash run, and Marley was determined to catch it in his mouth. Luckily he was unsuccessful, but it was hilarious to see this giant dog chasing after a little bee. One of the staff members was just watching and laughing.

Marley likes to play

Marley is super snuggly. He may not be able to fit in your lap, but he’ll at least rest his head there while you scratch his ears. Whenever I knelt down to his level, he would quickly appear by my side and stand next to me while I pet him. He may look big and imposing, but he is a puppy at heart who just wants to love you and be loved in return. I’ve been telling anyone who will listen what a great dog Marley is. Come in soon to see for yourself!

Marley coming over to cuddle

Mia the nine-year-old Mastiff mix came to the shelter with Marley (see above) after their owners got divorced and neither felt they could care for both dogs. They are very much a bonded pair and would love to find a new home together. Mia is older, so she’s very mellow. We casually strolled over to the off-leash run, where Mia continued to take her time sniffing and exploring. I’m particularly fond of Mastiffs, so I just kept squealing about how wonderful she is!

Mia is so big and so sweet

Mia likes to get attention, but she isn’t pushy about it. She never strayed too far from me, and enjoyed getting a good scratch on her back and neck. At one point I was kneeling on the ground, and Marley came to stand on my right side while Mia stood on my left. I put my arms around both and felt like we were the perfect trio. Marley went to go explore some more, but Mia stayed by my side until I stood up. If you have the time and space for two big lovebugs, stop in soon to meet Mia and Marley!

Mia standing tall and proud

Duke the five-year-old Treeing Walker Coonhound mix seems to have had at least some basic training, because he will come when called (which is particularly impressive for a Hound, who will usually just follow their nose!). He would be going in one direction, then I would call or whistle and he would change course and come right into my open arms. He has those big, floppy ears and soulful eyes that I just can’t resist.

Duke with his ears flapping in the wind

Duke is a sweetheart. When I was sitting on the bench, he squeezed his way underneath my legs and stood there for a long time while I pet him. He was always happy to take a break from exploring for a cuddle session. Duke is currently sharing a kennel with Lucy, so we know he gets along with other dogs and could go to a home with or without another dog. (However, he’s not as great with cats, since his breed is meant to hunt raccoons.) Be sure to say hi to Duke on your next visit to the shelter!

Duke has such a sweet face

Molly the two-year-old Labrador Retriever/Hound mix came from a family that had too many kids to care for a dog anymore. Molly could still go to a family home, but maybe one a little smaller so she gets the attention she deserves. Molly is still young, so she has plenty of energy and liked getting the chance to stretch her legs in the off-leash run. She’s a sweet girl with pretty coloring.

Molly keeping an eye on things

Molly already knows some basic training. Another volunteer was in the run with us, eating crackers. When Molly noticed this, she sat right at his feet and waited patiently for her “treat” (though she ended up not liking the cracker and didn’t eat it). Molly also hopped up on the bench next to me for some snuggling. She is currently sharing her kennel with Festus, so we know she gets along with other dogs. If you’re looking for a new family member who already has experience being part of a home, come in soon to meet Molly!

Molly posing nicely for the camera

I also saw Coal, Gypsy, John Boy, Weezie, Willow, and Zoey.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Singin’ in the Rain

Snow may finally be on the way today, but it was raining during my last visit with the dogs at Orphans of the Storm®. Rain or shine, though, these pooches are happy to go for a walk and get some love and attention.

Flossy the one-year-old Great Dane mix is a very sweet girl. She’s going to be a big girl, too, once she gains a little more weight and finishes growing. She’s currently sharing her kennel with Bandit and would happily walk next to him while we were out and about, so she could do well in a home with a doggy friend.

Flossy inspecting the camera

Flossy is the type of dog who will stop in her tracks if you start petting her. She’s so happy to get attention that she won’t start walking again until you stop petting her. Everyone who saw her at the shelter kept saying how cute she is. If you’re looking for a big, sweet puppy, come in soon to meet Flossy!

Flossy was a little chilly in the rain

Dagda (who has the name ‘Bage’ outside his kennel, if you go looking for him at the shelter) the four-year-old Chocolate Labrador Retriever mix has all of the best Lab qualities. He loves everybody and wags his rudder-like tail all the time. Although his kennelmate (who has already been adopted–hurray!) was a little reluctant to go out in the rain, Dagda was leading the way and loved to explore.

Dagda’s handsome profile

Dagda loves to cuddle and give doggy kisses. If your face gets within licking range, you can be sure that Dagda will kiss you. He will happily receive a nice scratch behind the ears or under his chin in return. He also knows some basic commands already. As soon as a treat appears, Dagda sits. What is a dog like him doing at a shelter? You can change that by welcoming this wonderful companion into your home.

Dagda, an exemplary Chocolate Lab

Honey Lamb the two-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix doesn’t understand why she’s still at the shelter, either. She has been waiting patiently for a family to call her own for over a year now. Honey Lamb is sure to bond quickly and make a loyal pet for whoever shows her some love. She’s a strong girl, and she pulls a little on the leash when you first take her out, but she settles down nicely.

Honey Lamb posing for the camera

Honey Lamb would probably prefer a more active home, after being in a kennel for so long. She loves to run, sniff, and investigate, but will always come back to you for a nice back rub or scratch on the top of her head. If you’re interested in an athletic dog, please consider a long-timer like Honey Lamb.

Honey Lamb enjoying our walk

Bear the two-year-old Yellow Labrador Retriever mix could really use some extra love right now. He’s a little nervous and doesn’t quite know who to trust yet. Luckily, he warms up very quickly. He started our walk with his tail between his legs and his head down close to the ground. As soon as I gave him a few gentle pats on the back, though, he sat right on my feet (yes, on my feet), looked up at me with those sweet eyes, and kissed my nose.

Bear’s sweet face

Bear is an extremely gentle dog, so he would appreciate living with a gentle person who will be patient with him as he comes out of his shell. He walks very well on a leash and would enjoy bonding with his new person during nice walks. Each time I started to pet him, he sat down as close to me as he possibly could. By the end of our walk, his tail was starting to wag. Come in soon to meet Bear!

Bear looking for love

Tessa the two-year-old Shepherd/Collie mix, who is currently Bear’s kennelmate, was also a little nervous when we first started our walk. She’s a sweet, playful girl at heart, though, who eventually gave me lots of doggy hugs and doggy kisses. She loves attention, and it’s impossible to deny her when she has her front paws up on your legs and is smiling at you with her tongue hanging out the side of her mouth.

Tessa’s alert face

Tessa is a very pretty girl, with her cute brown spots. When she’s extra happy or excited, her ears perk up. As a Shepherd/Collie mix, she will be great at learning any new tricks you want to teach her. Mostly, though, she’ll just be grateful to have a warm lap to snuggle in. This sweetheart is waiting for the perfect family to come take her home.

Tessa prancing in the rain