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 Want You to Book an Appointment

Orphans of the Storm® is still open just by appointment only, but you are now able to book appointments online directly on our website! You can still call 847-945-0235 to schedule an appointment as well. Don’t delay, there are so many sweet and snuggly dogs ready to meet you!

Ozzie the four-year-old Labrador Retriever/Hound mix is a smart, gentle boy who also has a playful streak. Being a retriever, he is excellent at playing fetch and especially loves tennis balls. He can catch the ball in midair and brings it right back to drop at your feet. He isn’t pushy about playing fetch, though–if you don’t throw it right away, he’s content to snuggle instead. But as soon as you pick up the ball again, he is ready to play!

Ozzie is very photogenic

Ozzie already has some good manners. When he comes to the gate at the entrance to the shelter’s walking trail, he sits nicely without being asked while he waits for you to open it. Ozzie is super snuggly and loves to lean against you while you pet him, especially if you’re scratching his favorite spot on his hip. He is an excellent walking companion and does great on the leash. Ozzie gets along well with other dogs and attends play group, so he could go to a home with or without another dog. Ozzie would also prefer an adult-only home. Come in soon to see if Ozzie is the pooch for you!

Ozzie enjoying his tennis ball and the shade

Mr. Brightside the two-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a serious chonk who will make you smile just by being in your presence. He loves being with people and has done great at offsite events where he had the opportunity to make lots of new friends. But his absolute favorite things are toys! Mr. Brightside heads straight to the toy bin before every walk and literally climbs inside, snuffling around for the perfect toy (or toys) to carry with him on the trail.

Mr. Brightside has the cutest wrinkly forehead

You might think Mr. Brightside would be distracted and want to play instead of walk, but having a toy in his mouth actually makes him a super easy walking buddy! He lumbers along and only stops occasionally to adjust how he’s holding his toy. He can sometimes destroy stuffed animal toys, so would do best with sturdier options in his new home. Mr. Brightside is looking for a home where he can be the only pet and get all of your love and attention. This big boy will give you plenty in return! Come in soon to meet Mr. Brightside!

Mr. Brightside proudly showing off his toy

Princess Peach the two-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is all about comfort—as a princess should be! She loves to create her own bed in the yard by digging in the dirt until she gets down to the cool part, then curls up and settles in. You may want to set aside a shady part of your garden where you won’t mind her digging! Princess Peach also likes to stretch out on cool concrete during hot afternoons and get belly rubs.

Princess Peach was very happy with her hole

When she isn’t lounging, Princess Peach is the perfect walking buddy. She often looks up at whoever is holding the other end of the leash and wags her tail to let you know she’s having a good time. Princess Peach is very snuggly and likes to give doggy kisses. And she doesn’t only like people—she’s happy to spend time with other dogs, too. She regularly participates in play group and has a long list of doggy friends, so she could go to a home with or without another dog. Schedule an appointment soon to meet Princess Peach!

Princess Peach will be a great #TongueOutTuesday participant

I also got a quick but affectionate hello from the not-yet-profiled Mama Mae.

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

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

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

Sugar is always smiling

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

Sugar enjoying the sunshine

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

Amber has the happiest smile

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

Amber doing what she does best: doggy hugs

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

Fox is so handsome

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

Fox eager to be on the trail

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

Stewie about to jump up for a doggy hug

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

Stewie says, “Whee!”

I also saw Reina.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs with Whom You Can “Fall” in Love

The cooler fall weather means it’s time to bring a new, cuddly companion into your home! Make an appointment to visit Orphans of the Storm® soon and meet the cute and affectionate dogs available for adoption.

Smiley the three-year-old Pit Bull Terrier is a lovable low-rider. He often looks very serious, but when he does give a doggy smile, you can see why he got his name! You can’t help but smile back. Smiley is a very easy walking companion, in that he moves slowly in order to thoroughly sniff everything and generally doesn’t want to walk too far. He prefers roaming around the yard at his own pace.

Smiley has the cutest body shape, with his short legs and giant face

Smiley greets new people politely and especially enjoys getting his hips scratched. He wriggles around happily when you scratch the right spot. Smiley regularly attends play group and does well with other dogs, though not always with larger males like himself. He can actively play with the more rambunctious dogs, but gets along with calmer dogs too, so Smiley could go to a home with or without another dog. If you’re looking for a new companion to make you smile every day, come in soon to meet Smiley!

Smiley wasn’t feeling so smiley during our photoshoot

Gumball the two-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a big, active boy. He gets the zoomies when he’s first let off-leash in the yard and happily runs a few laps before settling down to a slower walk and sniffing around to explore. Gumball loves toys and likes to have a variety of toy options to choose from. He alternates between chasing after them when you throw them and carrying them in his mouth while he walks around.

Gumball has a great smile

Gumball can be very strong when he wants to be, so a front-clip harness would probably be your friend if you’re the one to bring him home. He walks nicely on the leash once he gets his initial energy out, though. Gumball was content to take breaks as we made our way around the trail so I could pet him, and he particularly enjoys getting his sides scratched. If you’re looking for an active playmate, be sure to say hello to Gumball on your next visit to the shelter!

Gumball following his nose

Noelle the nine-year-old Husky mix is a volunteer favorite because she is so mellow, sweet, and easy-going. She’s probably the easiest dog to walk at the shelter right now, and she loves going for walks–when she finishes her first loop of the trail, she often starts heading in the direction of a second loop instead of heading back to her kennel. Noelle also enjoys spending time off-leash in the yard and meanders at her own pace, but comes back to whichever person is with her to get some chin scratches.

Noelle is a happy girl

Noelle does great with other dogs and attends play group every day. When she wants to play with a certain dog, she pokes them with her front paw. Noelle could go to a home with or without another dog. She could also go to a home with older children who understand she’s a senior and won’t jump all over her or be too loud around her. Noelle has been getting treated for a couple medical issues, but is now healthy enough to go to her forever home. She’s just looking for an understanding and accommodating home. If you’ve been thinking about adopting a senior, come in soon to meet Noelle!

Noelle is getting her fluff back for winter

Otter the three-year-old Hound mix is very sweet and affectionate. When you scratch his back and hips, he turns his head around to lick your hands. He’s also a leaner and will lean against your legs as long as you’re petting him. Otter likes to jump up a lot as if he were going to give a doggy hug, but he doesn’t actually make contact. It’s more like (hop) “Hi!” (hop) “Here I am!” (hop) “Got anything for me?” Then he stops hopping when you pet him or give him a toy.

Otter is very attentive to his person

Speaking of toys, Otter loves them. He is excellent at playing fetch. Otter runs after the toy, picks it up, brings it back, chews it for a few seconds, drops it at your feet, and patiently waits for you to throw it again. Otter is also a good walking buddy. He walks at a brisk pace but doesn’t pull on the leash. He isn’t a fan of other dogs, though, so he will pull a bit if he sees another dog coming. Otter would probably do best as the only dog in his new home. If you’re looking for a dog who is equal parts active and snuggly, stop by the shelter soon to meet Otter!

Otter was ready for his close-up

Bjork the six-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a sweetheart. She gave me a doggy hug as soon as she came out of her kennel and was much more interested in snuggling than walking. She joined me on the bench whenever I sat down and, since the majority of my face was covered from my mask and my hat, Bjork decided to cover my neck in doggy kisses instead. She also loves belly rubs and will not-very-gracefully flop onto her back to request one.

Bjork likes toys and belly rubs simultaneously

Bjork can keep herself entertained with toys. She especially likes stuffed squeaky toys, and will either play fetch with you or with herself. Bjork walks great on the leash 99% of the time, but she will dart after squirrels and chipmunks so you want to make sure you’re holding onto her leash properly. Bjork can play with other rambunctious dogs in play group, but can be too much for calmer dogs. She could go to a family home with children over 10. If that sounds like you, be sure to say hello to Bjork on your next visit to the shelter!

Bjork has the cutest perky ears

Tesoro the four-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a sweet boy with a gentle expression. He picked up the first toy he saw and carried it with him as we made our way to the off-leash yard. He likes to sniff at toys and carry them around, but wasn’t too interested in playing fetch during this outing. Tesoro came over to me to get some pets and stood politely at my side. He also put his front paws on the bench next to me when I sat down and enjoyed getting chin and chest scratches.

Tesoro has such a sweet face

Tesoro walks at a slow, easy pace the majority of the time and likes to take his time sniffing along the ground, but he can be strong and pull when there’s a particular direction he wants to go. He enjoys roaming around the yard and following his nose. Tesoro prefers to be with calmer, mellower dogs in play group. Since he’s a big boy, Tesoro would do best in a home with children over 10. Stop by the shelter soon to see if Tesoro is the one for you!

Tesoro likes to stop and smell all the plants

Crash the seven-year-old Cardigan Welsh Corgi/Chihuahua mix is super cute and cuddly. She joined me on the bench as soon as I sat down and just wanted to be pet. When I stopped petting her, she poked my hand with her front paw a couple times to let me know I should continue. Crash didn’t get off the bench until I stood up, so we probably could have sat there together all afternoon.

Crash sticking out her tongue

Crash is a perfect leash-walking companion. She stayed right by my side the entire way around the trail and went at whichever pace I did. When passing other dogs, she usually ignores them if they ignore her but will pull and bark if the other dog is also pulling and barking. Crash would prefer to be the only dog in her new home. Even though she’s small, she has more than enough to offer her new family. Be sure to say hello to Crash on your next visit to the shelter!

Crash exploring the yard

Travis the five-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a big snuggler. He loves to get his back and hips scratched and turns his head around to lick your hands while you do so. He likes to give doggy hugs and will also sit at your feet while you scratch his chin and neck, with his tail wagging the entire time. With a little encouragement, Travis hopped up onto the bench next to me and poked my mask with his nose.

Travis has the best forehead wrinkles

Travis likes having different toy options, but he mostly pokes at them with his front paw and his nose and only chews on them a little bit. He walks nicely on the leash for the most part, though he will pull towards squirrels and chipmunks if they run across his path. Travis plays well with other dogs in play group, so he has the potential to go to a home with another dog. Come in soon to see if Travis is the pooch for you!

Travis being a good walking buddy

I also saw Hero.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Shine Like the Sun

If you’re looking for a new furry family member to brighten your days, there are lots of dogs at Orphans of the Storm® right now eager to fill that role! (And also, the bright sun caused some serious shadows, so apologies for the darker photos.)

Garris the three-year-old Hound mix is super cuddly. He loves to give doggy hugs and will happily stand on his back legs for as long as you keep scratching his sides, neck, and ears. He also likes to give doggy kisses. Garris seems a little anxious at the shelter and can sometimes be a little mouthy when he gets wound up, like a puppy, but he’s still gentle about it.

Orphans of the Storm Dogs: Garris 1

Garris loves hugs

Garris enjoys playing with toys and happily chases them when you throw them, and then romps around the yard carrying one in his mouth. He can sometimes pull on the leash when he wants to go a certain direction, but he settles down as soon as you start petting him again. He literally melts into your lap! Garris gets along with other dogs, so he could go to a home with or without another dog. He could also go to a family with children over 10. If you’re looking for a sweet and snuggly companion, come in soon to meet Garris!

Orphans of the Storm Dogs: Garris 2

Garris smiling on his walk

Ace the three-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a happy boy. He likes to share his happiness with others by jumping up and giving enthusiastic doggy hugs. Even so, Ace knows when it’s time to behave and knows “sit” and maybe some other basic commands. He also takes treats very gently. Ace loves treats in general, whether it be a rawhide, a stuffed Kong, or a Pupsicle.

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You can’t help but smile back when Ace smiles at you

Ace walks nicely on the leash, both when using a harness and when using a regular collar. He enjoys rolling on his back in the grass and wriggling around to hit the right spot. Ace also likes dipping his paws into the puppy pool and splashing around on hot days. He isn’t a big fan of other dogs, so he is looking to be the only dog in his future home. Ace recently moved to a foster home, so you will need to call the shelter to schedule an appointment to meet him.

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Ace showing off his “sit” skills

Gunner the six-year-old Shepherd mix is a big, strong boy. He can throw his weight around when he wants to, but generally is pretty gentle and easy to handle. Gunner liked to sniff at the toys in the yard, but wasn’t interested in playing fetch on this particular outing. He mostly preferred following his nose around the yard and meandering at his own pace.

Orphans of the Storm Dogs: Gunner Shepherd 2

Gunner shining in the sun

Gunner kept to himself at the beginning of our time together, but by the end he was enjoying back and hip scratches and stood by my side to get more loving. Gunner likes to lead the way on walks and prefers going at a brisk pace. He participates in play group and has made some doggy friends that he enjoys romping with. This means he could go to a home with or without another dog. If you love big dogs, come in soon to meet Gunner!

Orphans of the Storm Dogs: Gunner Shepherd 1

Gunner enjoying yard time

Sophia the four-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is such a cutie. She wants to say hello to everyone she passes, human and dog alike. Although she pulls towards dogs when she passes them on walks, she never barks at them. Sophia particularly enjoys getting her chin scratched, but she’s happy to receive any attention. She sat at my feet to get some pets when I sat down on the bench and looked up at me with a happy doggy smile.

Orphans of the Storm Dogs: Sophia PBT 2

Sophia has the cutest pointy ears

Sophia walks nicely on the leash. She leads the way but never pulls. Sophia gets along with other dogs and attends play group. This means she could go to a home with or without another dog. Since she’s so gentle and sweet, she could also go to a home with children. One thing that her future family should know is that Sophia is capable of jumping fences, so she will always need to be supervised in the yard. If you’re ready to add a furry friend to your family, be sure to say hello to Sophia!

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Sophia camouflaging in the woodchips

Delilah the two-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is super happy. Her tail is constantly wagging and she always looks like she has a smile on her face. Delilah loves toys and can keep herself occupied by playing fetch with herself, tossing a toy into the air and then jumping up to catch it. Delilah is also very smart. When I asked if she was ready to go for a walk, she went straight to where her leash was hanging on the fence and eagerly waited for me to clip it on.

Orphans of the Storm Dogs: Delilah PBT 2

Delilah says, “Put on a happy face!”

Delilah loves to snuggle. She will lean into your lap or put her front paws in your lap and cover your face with doggy kisses. She also gives very sweet doggy hugs. When on walks, she starts by wanting to lead the way and can pull a little, but she slows down into a nice walking pace after her initial excitement gets out of her system. Delilah gets along with other dogs and regularly attends play group. She could go to a home with or without another dog. Stop by the shelter soon to meet Delilah!

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Delilah especially likes stuffed squeaky toys

I also saw Boon and King.

Orphans of the Storm® Has Dogs of All Energy Levels

Whether you’re looking for a companion to keep you cozy on the couch, a running partner, or a fetch guru, Orphans of the Storm® has the dog with the right energy level for you!

Maria the five-year-old Redbone Coonhound mix is one of the most mellow dogs at the shelter right now. She was lounging in a sunny spot in her kennel when I came to take her out, and she wagged her tail when she saw the leash but otherwise wasn’t in a hurry to get up. When I let her off-leash in the yard, she went straight for the doghouse, dug up some fresh, cool dirt, and plopped down to do some more lounging. Maria is happy to get lots of scratches and snuggles while she’s relaxing, too, and will gently nudge your hand with her nose if you stop petting her.

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Maria enjoys her chest scratches

Maria is a very easy walking companion. She goes at an easy pace and never pulls. Sometimes she can be a little stubborn if she wants to stop and you want to keep moving, but she starts going again with a little encouragement. Maria has attended an off-site event and was calm the entire time. She already has a big fan following among the volunteers. Maria sometimes participates in play group, but because she prefers things to be low-key like she is, she isn’t too fond of all the activity involved. If you’re looking for a sweet and gentle couch potato, come in soon to meet Maria!

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Maria being a good walking buddy

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Bonus photo of Maria dozing in the doghouse

Chappie the five-year-old Labrador Retriever/Hound mix is a real cutie. He was excited to come out of his kennel and quickly led the way to the Enrichment Park, where he enjoyed sniffing and exploring. Chappie did several slow loops around the perimeter and especially enjoyed snuffling around the potted plants. A staff member was coming in and out of the park to do some cleaning, and Chappie didn’t pay him any attention or even notice that the gate kept opening and closing. He was just content to do his own thing.

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Chappie looking serious

Chappie finally realized that I was there to spend time with him once we were on the walking trail. When I knelt down to his level, he came over to get some neck scratches and gave me a few gentle doggy kisses. Chappie likes to walk at a quick pace but doesn’t pull as long as you’re keeping up with him. In fact, Chappie has the potential to be a great jogging or running partner–his speed perfectly matched my jogging pace, and he even started to run a little when he realized I was running too. Chappie has participated in a few play groups with gentler dogs. Come to the shelter soon to see if Chappie is the one for you!

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Chappie smiling

Kobe the one-year-old Labrador Retriever mix is an active boy who loves toys. He chased after the toys I threw, then picked his favorite and carried it in his mouth while he ran a few laps around the yard. After that, he found a shady spot in the grass and laid down to do some chewing. The good news is that Kobe doesn’t try to destroy his toys when he’s chewing, like some dogs do. He just casually nibbles and keeps the toys intact. Kobe can pull a bit on the leash when using a regular collar, but walks more easily with a front-clip harness.

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Kobe loved this squeaky pumpkin

Kobe attends play group every day. He loves wrestling and romping with the other rough-and-rowdy dogs–but annoys the calmer and gentler dogs, so he does best with high-energy dogs like himself. Kobe is learning basic obedience and would be eager to learn more. His previous owners noted that he can be protective of his home and yard, so Kobe is looking for an adult-only home that can work with him on this and teach him that he doesn’t need to be territorial or wary of visitors. If you’re looking for a playful pup, be sure to meet Kobe on your next visit to the shelter!

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Kobe says, “Whatcha got there?”

I also saw Chevy.

Orphans of the Storm® Has Big Dogs and Active Dogs

It finally cooled down enough to be able to walk the dogs at Orphans of the Storm® in the afternoon!

Joe the seven-year-old Hound mix is a big boy, but very gentle. He can unintentionally be a little strong when he first comes out of his kennel because he’s happy to be outside, but he is a super easy walking companion once he’s on the trail. Joe preferred walking in the tall grasses (I think because it was cooler there) and took some breaks in the shade. He was happy to get his neck and back scratched during these breaks, and gave me a big doggy smile.

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Joe enjoying his yard time

Joe would love to have a yard to call his own. He had a great time meandering around the yard, thoroughly sniffing the perimeter and exploring behind the bushes. His future family will be glad to know that Joe is very calm and patient when getting his long, floppy ears cleaned. Joe has already made a couple doggy friends in play group and is gentle around the dogs he’s met so far. If you love big Hounds, be sure to come in soon to meet Joe!

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You’ll have to be okay with a little drool if you bring Joe home

Cooper the one-year-old Hound mix has lots of energy, since he’s basically still a puppy. He jumped up and down in excitement when he first came out of his kennel and wanted to play tug with the leash, but dropped it quickly when we started our walk. Cooper likes to lead the way on walks and wanted to run rather than walk on this particular outing. What Cooper likes the most, though, is water. He hops right into the kiddie pool and has so much fun splashing around. He even plunges his face into the water with his mouth open as if he’s trying to catch fish.

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Cooper relaxing in the shade

Cooper enjoyed romping freely around the yard. He did a couple quick laps and then slowed down to do more sniffing, and eventually came back to me to get some pets. Cooper loves playing rough-and-tumble with other high-energy dogs in play group and could go to a home with or without another dog. He also has potential to go to a home with cats or children. If you’re looking for a fun and playful addition to your family, come by the shelter soon to meet Cooper!

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Cooper’s face of pure contentment in the pool

Boon the three-year-old Anatolian Shepherd mix is a gentle giant–so giant that you don’t even need to lean over in order to pet him. He’s been a little nervous and shy at the shelter but is starting to come out of his shell more. Boon likes to stay close to his person. When we were in the Enrichment Park, Boon either stood at the gate waiting to leave or stood next to me and enjoyed getting neck scratches.

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Boon says, “I’d like to go for my walk now.”

Despite Boon‘s size, he’s very easy to walk on the leash and didn’t stray far from my side. He did a little sniffing here and there, but mostly kept moving at an easy pace and paused occasionally so I could give him more pets. When I knelt down next to him, he gave me lots of gentle doggy kisses. Boon’s breed is known for being loyal, protective, and territorial, so Boon is looking for an adult-only home where he can be the only pet. If that sounds like your situation, stop in soon to say hello to Boon!

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Boon in the middle of giving doggy kisses

I also briefly met Sherpta, Boon’s sister, who has quickly become a volunteer favorite because she is so sweet and just wants to snuggle and give kisses.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Handle the Heat

It was a hot and humid day, but the dogs at Orphans of the Storm® were still happy to spend time outside!

Ajax the one-year-old Hound mix is so handsome. He caught my eye right away when I got to the shelter, so I knew I wanted to take him out first. Ajax would love to have a yard of his own. He enjoyed exploring around the Enrichment Park, calmly sniffing and exploring all the corners. He got one case of the zoomies and ran a quick lap, but settled down again quickly. When I sat down on the bench, Ajax came over to me to get some pets.

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Ajax enjoying the green plants

Ajax likes to lead the way on walks. He’s a big, strong boy and can sometimes pull on the leash when he wants to go at a faster pace or go in a certain direction. Ajax is also a smart boy, and knew to climb underneath a bush to cool off in the shade. Ajax occasionally attends play group and gets along with other active dogs who like to play, so he could go to a home with or without another dog. Say hello to Ajax on your next visit to the shelter!

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Ajax considering a dip in the puppy pool

Gunter the seven-month-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is still very much a puppy. He loves to give enthusiastic doggy kisses that sometimes turn into excited nibbles. Gunter jumps up and down to give doggy hugs when he first comes out of his kennel, but the heat on this particular day mellowed him out pretty quickly. He’ll happily climb into your lap whenever the opportunity presents itself, but he’s still very wiggly!

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Gunter licking his hips after a quick drink

Gunter walked nicely on the leash around the woodland preserve trail. There were a couple instances where he started to chew on the leash, but he dropped it after a few seconds and continued walking at a nice pace. Even though Gunter is still a pretty small puppy, he can hold his own in play group with bigger dogs and loves to chase and be chased. He could go to a home with or without another dog. If you’re looking for a happy, sweet puppy, come in soon to meet Gunter!

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Gunter wasn’t too sure about the agility equipment

Bailey the eighteen-year-old Chihuahua mix is a super senior! But don’t let his age fool you–Bailey likes to lead the way on walks and still has lots of pep in his step. I thought he would only want to be outside for a few minutes in this heat, but he loved exploring around the yard and even nimbly jumped over a puddle more than once. When I told him it was time to go back inside, he just looked at me as if to say, “But I’m not done yet!” and wanted to go in the opposite direction of the kennels.

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Bailey is too cute for words

Bailey can be a little timid when you first meet him, but he enjoys getting scratched under his chin (and he has a cute little underbite) and eventually warms up to getting his sides scratched. Bailey politely sniffed another small dog while we were on our walk and has the potential to go to a home with another dog. If you’ve been considering opening your home to a senior, be sure to meet Bailey on your next visit to the shelter!

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Bailey trotting around the yard

Drip the one-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix has lots of affection to give. He will happily sit down next to you and lean against you while you pet him, and won’t move again until you stop. Drip particularly likes getting his sides rubbed, and may start to roll over onto your lap so you can rub his belly too. He also didn’t let a face mask stop him from giving me plenty of doggy kisses! Drip is potentially housebroken, or close to it, because he went potty as soon as all four of his paws were outside his kennel.

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Drip deciding between two toys

Drip loves toys, especially stuffed squeaky toys. He ran around the Enrichment Park carrying one in his mouth, then plopped down on the ground to chew it a bit. He also brought one toy over to me and held it while I pet him. Drip pulls on the leash when using a regular collar, but is much easier to walk when using a front-clip harness. He likes to lead the way and walk at a quick pace regardless. Drip gets along with other dogs but is a “rough and rowdy” player, so he does best with other active dogs who won’t get annoyed by him. He has the potential to go to a home with another playful dog. If Drip sounds like the kind of dog for you, come in soon to meet him!

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Drip picked the raccoon

Orphans of the Storm® is still operating by appointment only, so please call 847-945-0235 to schedule an appointment to meet these dogs or any others.

Orphans of the Storm® Is Now Open!

Orphans of the Storm® is excited to announce that it has reopened to the public! However, there are new protocols and procedures in place to keep staff, volunteers, and potential adopters safe. Please read the following notes before visiting the shelter:

  • We are open by appointment only.
  • Appointments will be daily between noon and 3pm and last 45 minutes.
  • Walk-ins are not permitted and will be turned away.
  • Only 2 people per party are permitted inside the shelter at a time.
  • Minors must not be left unattended, so please plan accordingly.
  • Please leave your pets at home.
  • Masks must be worn at all times. Entry will not be granted without a mask.
  • Contactless temperature checks will be performed on all entrants.

To make an appointment for either dog adoption or cat adoption, please call 847-945-0235.

And here are some of the new dogs who are eager to meet you!

Tom Hanks the four-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix already has a large fan club, and volunteers have only been back for one week! Everyone who has had the opportunity to walk him has fallen in love with this super sweet boy. Tom Hanks will be happy to join his future family out in the yard, where he can loll around in a sunny spot in the grass and keep you company while you read, garden, or play outside. He especially enjoys belly rubs and will lay by your side so you can continue to pet him.

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Tom Hanks is such a happy boy

Tom Hanks walks nicely on the leash and does well wearing a harness for walks. He was very patient with me while I learned to put his harness on correctly. He’s very attentive to his person and was happy to pause several times on our way around the trail to get more pets and snuggles. Tom Hanks only pulls on the leash when he sees some dogs, but some dogs he doesn’t give a second glance. He regularly attends play group and enjoys the company of calmer, gentler dogs. Come in soon to meet Tom Hanks!

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Tom Hanks wondering why I stopped rubbing his belly

Colossus the five-year-old Bloodhound mix is a big, strong boy who likes to stay active. He may bay inside his kennel to get your attention, but he’s very quiet once he’s out and about. The only sound he made when we were on our walk was when he whined at me to keep moving (I had stopped him to take a few photos). Colossus definitely enjoys his walks and keeps his nose to the ground to follow scents. He moves at a quick pace but does well with a front-clip harness.

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Colossus says, “Follow me!”

Colossus would love to have a fenced-in yard to call his own. He had a fun time romping around the Enrichment Park and didn’t want to leave. Colossus tolerates other dogs his size or larger, but may be too much for smaller dogs. He also is not a fan of cats and is looking for a cat-free home. Colossus could go to a home with older children and would make a loyal family dog. Be sure to say hello to Colossus on your next visit to the shelter!

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You’ll have to be okay with a bit of drool if you bring Colossus home!

Paladin the two-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix gets super excited when it’s his turn to come out of the kennel, but settles down nicely and just wants to snuggle and give kisses. When I sat down on a bench, he first put his front paws in my lap so I could scratch his sides and then he hopped up onto the bench next to me to cover my face in doggy kisses. He wasn’t too interested in toys on this particular outing and mostly just wanted to stay close to me when we were in the off-leash run.

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Paladin waiting for me to join him on the bench

Paladin is a great walking companion when he’s wearing a front-clip harness and walks at an easy pace, but can pull a bit when using a regular collar. He likes dogs, so he gets excited when passing by other dogs and wants to run over to say hello. In fact, Paladin has made lots of doggy friends in play group. He’s high-energy and loves the more rough-and-tumble kind of play. If you’re looking for a sweet and playful pooch, come in soon to meet Paladin!

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Paladin is a handsome boy

Turner the seven-year-old American Bulldog mix is such a happy boy. He constantly looks like he’s smiling and the expression on his big, wide face makes it impossible for people to not smile back! Turner will happily stay by your side as long as you keep petting him. He particularly likes getting his sides scratched, with his tail wagging all the while.

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Turner smiling for the camera

Turner is a very easy walking buddy. He doesn’t pull on the leash at all, and goes at a more meandering pace with the occasional stop to sniff. Turner is a play group rock star and helps socialize new dogs to teach them how to play properly, so he could go to a home with or without another dog. He could also go to a home with children over 10. Stop in soon to say hello to Turner!

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Turner enjoying the outdoors

Jed the seven-year-old Treeing Walker Coonhound mix is a mellow guy. He spent the first few minutes in the off-leash run just sniffing around, but eventually came over to me for some pets. He especially likes hip scratches and chin scratches. Jed walks nicely on a front-clip harness and moves at an even pace. Being a Hound, though, he does like to stop and snuffle around.

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Jed in his element among the trees

Jed and I walked all the way around the woodland preserve trail at a socially distant 6 feet away from another dog and volunteer, and Jed has no problems walking with other dogs. He doesn’t pay much attention to them at all, actually. Jed attends play group but prefers being with calmer, mellower dogs like himself and is happy to do his own thing rather than engage in play. Jed could go to a home with children over 10, and is looking for a cat-free home. Be sure to say hello to Jed on your next visit to the shelter!

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Jed has the sweetest Hound eyes

Pinky the four-year-old Pit Bull Terrier/Dalmatian mix is deaf, but I didn’t know that until after I walked her and I couldn’t tell a difference! Pinky acts like any other dog, but is looking for a special home that will learn to train her with non-verbal commands and make other adjustments to keep a deaf dog happy and safe. Pinky is super snuggly and will enthusiastically climb into your lap at any opportunity she gets.

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Pinky enjoying the plants

Pinky walks nicely on the leash and is happy to stop along the way for more cuddling and doggy kisses. She also enjoys bounding into tall grasses and rolling around on her back. When we were in the Enrichment Park, all Pinky wanted to do was stay close to me and get more pets. She wiggles happily and turns her head around to lick your hands while you scratch her sides. If you’re interested in giving Pinky the special home she needs, be sure to stop by the shelter soon to meet her!

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Pinky showing off her spots in the sunshine

And remember that we have many dogs in foster homes right now, so not all dogs available for adoption are on-site at the shelter. Please see the full list of adoptable dogs on the Orphans of the Storm® website, and the “Location” field on each dog’s page will say whether they are at the shelter or in a foster home.

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

With Orphans of the Storm® closed to the public (including volunteers), there won’t be posts about new dogs for the foreseeable future. In the meantime, I’d like to help spread positivity by sharing more success stories! If you’ve adopted a dog or cat from Orphans of the Storm® and would like to be featured on the blog, please email meetthepooches@gmail.com. These happy tales put a smile on everyone’s faces!

If you’ve been following the blog for a while, you might remember Courage. After waiting three years at Orphans of the Storm®, she finally found her forever home with volunteers Ron and Lucy. Here is their success story!

We adopted Courage, our Black and Tan Coonhound, in September of 2017. My wife Lucy and I are volunteer dog walkers at Orphans of the Storm®, so we were familiar with Courage as we both had walked her several times. When we were ready to adopt a dog, we had a couple of other dogs that we were interested in and Courage was not one we had considered. One weekend we came and walked a couple of dogs on the wonderful wooded trail at Orphans but did not feel a “connection” with those dogs. We were looking for a bigger dog that was an affectionate “people dog.”

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We were feeling frustrated when Lucy said, “How about Courage?” Lucy had recently participated in an off-site adoption event at Chalet Nursery, and Courage was one of the dogs chosen to be there. After spending several hours with her at the event, Lucy saw just how sweet (and quirky) this pooch was. So we took Courage for a walk and when we stopped to sit down on one of the trail benches, Courage jumped up and licked my face and demanded a belly rub! Lucy and I looked at each other. We both knew Courage was the one!

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Courage has made a phenomenal transition from shelter dog to family pet. She is housebroken and only had a couple of accidents when we first brought her home. Now Courage goes to the back door when she needs to relieve herself in the yard, then she barks when she wants to come back into the house. She enjoys a long walk every day as well. We thought that because she was a Hound she would bark a lot, but she does not. She follows us all over the house and tries to be a 65+-pound lapdog. Her morning routine includes laying on the floor waiting for us to rub her tummy. Courage loves to play hide-and-seek with treats hidden all over the house.

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She is definitely a member of our family and we can’t imagine life without her. It is hard to believe that Courage had been at the shelter for over 3 years. She is so sweet, and we would recommend to potential adopters that Hounds do make excellent house dogs. She makes us laugh every day. Adopting Courage has enriched our lives beyond what we could ever hope for.

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Thank you, Ron and Lucy, for adopting Courage and sharing your story! And for being dedicated volunteers!