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® Has a Wide Variety of Dogs

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

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

Blocky standing proud

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

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

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

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

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

Chase doing a little more exploring

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

Bandit likes to stop and sniff on his walks

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

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

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

Latin smiling on the bench

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

Latin coming in for a doggy kiss

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

Raptor showing off his toy collection

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

Raptor is a handsome boy

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

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

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

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

Pope enjoying a chin scratch

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

Pope loves his belly rubs

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

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Who Make Friends Easily

Thanks to play groups, we have a much better understanding of which dogs at Orphans of the Storm® get along with other dogs and which don’t. Right now, there are so many adoptable dogs who enjoy the company of other dogs. If you already have a pet at home and are looking to add another, here are just a few to consider–and there are plenty of others!

Bradshaw the seven-year-old Labrador Retriever mix is super sweet. He just wants to be loved, and has the most contented expression on his face whenever he gets pet. He particularly enjoys getting his sides and hips scratched, but anywhere really works for him! Bradshaw enjoys taking his time to explore around the yard, sniffing here and there before coming back to you to get more snuggles.

Bradshaw keeping an eye on things

Bradshaw is a very easy walking companion. He goes at a slow and steady pace and, since he’s older, he doesn’t need long walks. Bradshaw attends play group almost every day and enjoys the company of calm, mellow dogs like himself. This means he could go to a home with or without another dog. If you’ve been considering adding a sweet senior to your home, be sure to say hello to Bradshaw on your next visit to the shelter!

Bradshaw smiling while getting pet

Murdoch the one-year-old Border Collie mix is very easy-going. He’s a great walking companion who doesn’t pull at all on the leash and just stays one or two steps ahead of you. He occasionally stops to sniff around, but mostly trots along evenly. When Murdoch was in the off-leash yard, he poked a few toys with his nose but wasn’t too interested in chasing after them or playing fetch.

Murdoch showing off his blue eye and floofy tail

Murdoch started off by slowly exploring the yard, then got the zoomies and ran a couple laps with a happy doggy smile on his face. He’s a handsome, fluffy boy with one bright blue eye and he’ll definitely catch your attention as you walk through the kennels. Murdoch attends play group and likes being with other dogs, though other large males don’t always like him back. He could go to a home with or without another dog. If you’re looking for a go-with-the-flow kind of dog, come in soon to meet Murdoch!

Murdoch enjoying the trail

Roger the three-year-old Doberman Pinscher/Shepherd mix is a big, strong boy with a big heart to match. He is an excellent snuggling companion. Every time I sat down on a bench, Roger immediately stopped whatever he was doing and came over to lean against my legs and give me doggy kisses. He especially enjoys scratches on his sides, hips, and neck and will stand by you for as long as you keep petting him. Whenever we passed someone new on our walk, Roger gave them an enthused doggy hug and wanted to snuggle with them too.

Roger being a snuggle-bug

Roger likes to lead the way on walks and would probably do best with a front-clip harness to deter him from pulling. He did slow down the longer we were out on the trail, though. Roger regularly attends play group and gets along with both the calm, gentle dogs and the dogs who like to chase and play tag. He could go to a home with or without another dog. Visit the shelter soon to meet Roger!

Roger is so cute with his one floppy ear

I also spent some time with Eerie, Gazoo, and Oswald, but all three of them are shy little Chihuahuas who just wanted to be carried and cuddled rather than walk on their own, so I wasn’t able to get pictures–my hands were literally full!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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!

Delilah especially likes stuffed squeaky toys

I also saw Boon and King.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs in the Dog Days of Summer

What better time to add a dog to your home than during the dog days of summer? There are plenty of playful pooches at Orphans of the Storm® who are ready to enjoy the outdoors and sunshine with you!

Annie the two-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a super playful and happy girl. She loves toys and can easily keep herself entertained by playing fetch with herself, romping around the yard while carrying a toy, or plopping down and chewing on it. Annie also loves rolling around on her back in the grass and getting her belly rubbed. She likes hip scratches and will wriggle from one side to the other depending on where you’re petting her.

Annie is an active girl

Annie can pull a bit on the leash when she first comes out of her kennel, but she walks great on the trail when using a front-clip harness. She isn’t a fan of other dogs when she passes them on walks or sees them on the other side of the fence, but we are working on her dog socialization skills. She is looking for a home where she can be the only dog. Annie is a smart girl who already knows some basic commands and is housebroken, so she’s ready to settle into her new forever home. Come in soon to meet Annie!

Annie will enjoy snuggles post-playtime

Socks the one-year-old Shepherd mix is very gentle. He enjoyed meandering slowly around the yard, sniffing at all the new smells. Socks wasn’t too interested in toys on this particular outing, but he does enjoy getting lots of attention and pets. Socks is happy to greet people and walk right up to them to get more snuggles (and hopefully a treat!). When I sat down on a bench, Socks hopped up next to me. He just likes being close to his people.

Socks showing off his white paw-socks

Socks likes to lead the way on walks and moves at a brisk pace, but doesn’t pull on the leash at all. Socks gets along with other dogs and participates in play group with dogs who like to play tag with each other. This means he could go to a home with or without another dog. If you’re looking for a big, sweet boy, come in soon to meet Socks!

Socks on the bench

Data the one-year-old Shepherd mix is new to the shelter and still a little nervous about her new surroundings. She is very submissive and often rolls over onto her back when she’s not sure what else to do. But when you start rubbing her belly and tell her it will be okay, her tail starts to wag! Data is pretty skittish and doesn’t seem too familiar with walking on a leash, but she’ll get better with more practice.

Data being braver in the yard

Data comes out of her shell more the longer she’s out of her kennel. When we went to the Enrichment Park, she started by just pacing at the gate. After a few minutes, though, she was exploring all the way out to the middle of the yard. She eventually came over to where I was sitting so I could pet her. Data has potential to go to a home with another dog or with a cat. This sweet puppy has lots to offer–she just needs the right comforting home to help her develop into her full potential. Be sure to say hello to Data on your next visit to the shelter!

Data hiding in the corner

Kara the four-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier/Weimaraner mix is a sweet girl. Her favorite thing is to be close to her people. Whenever I knelt down to her level or sat down somewhere, Kara would come trotting over without even being called and snuggle up next to me. She especially loves hip scratches and neck scratches. Kara enjoyed sniffing her way around the Enrichment Park. She chased after a toy when I threw it, but wasn’t interested in picking it up or playing with it.

Kara likes to stop and smell the roses (and other flowers)

Kara is a perfect walking companion. She stayed right by my side and didn’t pull at all. In fact, she walked so close to me that I was afraid I would step on her toes! Kara wanted to pause occasionally so she could smell the flowers and other plants lining the trail, and was also happy to pause for more pets. Come by the shelter soon to meet Kara!

Kara enjoys her walks

Bubbles the two-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is very calm. She walks nicely on the leash, moving at an easy pace and not pulling at all. Bubbles especially likes to snuggle. Whenever I knelt down to her level, she came running over and rested her chin in my lap while I pet her. She also gave the occasional doggy kiss. When I sat down on the bench, Bubbles put her front paws up on the bench next to me and gave me a big, happy doggy smile.

Bubbles exploring the Enrichment Park

Bubbles gets along with other dogs and attends play group almost every day. She already has a long list of doggy friends. Her favorite type of play style is to chase and be chased. When we were in the Enrichment Park, Bubbles politely sniffed a much larger dog on the other side of the fence. So, she could go to a home with or without another dog. If you’re looking for a happy, bubbly pooch, look no further than Bubbles!

Bubbles trying to be a lapdog

Snow the two-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix sits without even being asked when it’s time to put her leash on–both when she’s in her kennel, and when she’s in the yard. She would be eager to learn even more! Snow is super snuggly. When we went into the Enrichment Park, Snow immediately sat down next to me and just wanted to cuddle. When I eventually got up and walked away, Snow came over and stood in front of me so I had to stop and pet her more. She particularly likes getting her sides rubbed.

Snow often has a doggy smile on her face

Snow is a good walking companion. We made our way around the trail at a nice pace. Snow sometimes perked up when a chipmunk or bird crossed our path, but she didn’t try to chase after them. She especially enjoys rolling around on her back in the tall grasses. Snow regularly attends play group and does well with the calm and gentle dogs. She has potential to go home with another dog, but she does not like cats. Come in soon to meet Snow!

Snow leading the way

Lupa the seven-month-old Labrador Retriever mix is still very much a puppy. She has lots of energy, but eventually plops down in a shady spot after she has a chance to run and play. Lupa loves toys. She happily chases after them when you throw them, and then runs a couple laps around the yard carrying them in her mouth. She isn’t possessive, though–when you reach out to take the toy back, Lupa drops it quickly and then eagerly hops up and down waiting for you to throw it again. Lupa is also learning to enjoy splashing around in the puppy pool and will dip her toes in if you throw a toy in the middle for her to fetch.

Lupa ready for me to throw the toy

Lupa, still being a puppy, needs a little more practice walking on a leash. She likes to lead the way and would often rather run than walk. She would probably do best with a harness to prevent her from pulling as much–but once she’s in a home where she’s getting regular walks and exercise, she probably won’t have quite as much energy on every walk. Lupa attends play group and enjoys romping with the other dogs. If you’re looking for a fun and playful puppy, come in soon to meet Lupa!

Lupa likes toys of all shapes and sizes

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Celebrate St. Pawtrick’s Day

This weekend, March 14-15, Orphans of the Storm® is hosting a St. Pawtrick’s Day adoption event! The adoption fee for dogs and cats 6 months and older will be waived (final vet fees still apply). New adopters go home with a goody bag! We are especially hoping to find families for dog-friendly dogs who can go to a home with another furry friend. Since the dog wings have been closed due to kennel cough for the past two weeks, we are excited to be back open and hoping for lots of happy adoptions this weekend!

Chili the two-year-old American Bulldog mix is super playful. He particularly enjoyed playing with a big, long rope toy–he ran around with it in his mouth, shook it back and forth, and plopped down to chew on it. Chili then brought the toy over to me and leaned into my lap while continuing to chew. When we eventually went for a walk, Chili didn’t want to leave this fun toy behind!

Chili with his favorite rope toy

Chili is a good walking companion. He likes to walk at a quick pace but doesn’t pull too often. He also likes to stop and snuffle his nose through piles of leaves or in tall grasses. Chili has become a play group regular and has a long list of doggy friends that he actively likes to play with, so he could go to a home with or without another dog. If you’re looking for a fun-loving pooch, be sure to say hello to Chili!

Chili being a good walking buddy

Ziggy the one-year-old Labrador Retriever/Hound mix loves to snuggle. He gave me a doggy hug as soon as he came out of his kennel and just wanted to stand still there, getting lots of pets. He gave me many more doggy hugs during our time together. Ziggy always waits for the person to end the hug first because in his mind, a hug can never be too long! When Ziggy wants attention, he’ll sit at your feet and look up at you expectantly until you start petting him.

Ziggy gives the best hugs

Ziggy enjoys playing with a variety of toys: stuffed squeakies, ropes, balls, etc. He’ll happily plop down next to you and chew on a toy while you pet him. If you stop petting him, though, he’ll stop chewing and poke your hand so you continue. Ziggy also hopped up to join me on the bench. He just wants to be close to his person! Ziggy can occasionally pull on the leash, but he’s barely out of puppyhood so he just needs some extra practice. Ziggy has participated in a few play groups and gets along with the other dogs, so he could go to a home with or without another dog. Come in soon to see if Ziggy is the one for you!

Ziggy happy with his big toy

Crema the two-year-old Shepherd mix loves her toys so much that she even carries them in her mouth during walks. Soft squeakies, tennis balls, ropes–she’s happy to have them all! Crema is also great at playing fetch. She prefers to play with a person, but she can also keep herself entertained by throwing the toy in the air herself and catching it. She may even be able to figure out how to use an automatic fetch machine in her new home because she’s such a smart girl.

Crema’s face of contentment/satisfaction

Crema likes to lead the way on walks. She keeps up a quick pace and doesn’t stop too often for sniffing. Crema doesn’t pull too much if you’re able to keep up with her, though. Crema participates in play groups regularly and her favorite form of play is to chase or be chased. Sometimes she gets overexcited with a lot of other high-energy dogs, but after a quick breather she settles down again nicely. If you’re looking for an active dog to participate in your active lifestyle, stop by the shelter soon to meet Crema!

Crema says, “Yay! TWO toys for me!”

I also saw Hayden, Hunky, Rusty, Scooby, and Titus.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Will Leap into Your Heart

Leap Day is tomorrow, and the dogs at Orphans of the Storm® would leap for joy if they found their forever homes!

Roxie Marie the two-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is an excellent snuggler. As soon as I knelt down to her level, she curled right up against me and then put her front paws in my lap so she could cover my face with doggy kisses. When I sat down on the bench later, Roxie Marie hopped right up next to me and particularly enjoyed getting her hips and sides scratched. Her tail is constantly wagging.

Roxie Marie has good camouflage

Roxie Marie walks great on the leash. She likes to explore and sniff, but rarely pulls and mostly just stays a couple steps ahead of her person. Roxie Marie has also participated in a few play groups and has made some doggy friends. She’s more on the calm and gentle side, but still seems to like the company of other dogs. Come in soon to see if sweet Roxie Marie is the one for you!

Roxie Marie literally smiles

Kibble the eight-month-old Labrador Retriever mix was rescued from a hoarding situation, so he’s still figuring out the best way to be a happy puppy. Since he never had anything to call his own before, he can sometimes get extra eager about food. But he’s already learning that people are great for getting lots of pets! Kibble had a fun time romping around the Enrichment Park, playing with a stuffed squeaky toy. He was perfectly content to chew on the toy and toss it around himself, but would also chase it when I threw it for him.

Kibble wondering, “What’s over there?”

Kibble likes to give his people doggy hugs. With his puppy exuberance, Kibble can sometimes pull on the leash, especially if another dog is nearby. But he’s also pretty easy to re-focus. Kibble hasn’t been a big fan of other dogs at the shelter so far, but coming from a hoarding situation, that’s understandable that he wants his own space for once! Kibble does have the potential to go to a home with children, though. Be sure to say hello to Kibble on your next visit to the shelter!

Kibble loved this toy

Sugar the four-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is a total sweetheart. She loves getting attention, but she’s very mellow about it. She’ll just plop down next to you and look at you expectantly until you start petting her, and then she’ll wag her tail and poke your hand with her nose when you scratch the right spots. Sugar jumped up on every single bench we passed during our walk and looked at me like, “Okay, I’m at perfect petting height now! Time to snuggle!” She wouldn’t get off the bench until she had been satisfactorily doted upon.

Sugar modeling her cute sweater

Sugar is also an excellent walking companion. She doesn’t pull at all, and moves at an easy pace. Sugar is looking to be the only dog in her new home. However, when she’s out on walks, she doesn’t give other dogs a second glance. (She even sat directly next to Max Becks on the other side of the fence and let him sniff her through the gate.) Sugar is certainly as sweet as her name implies. Come in soon to meet her!

Sugar on the bench

Hayden the two-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix has been described as “ladylike” and “dainty”–and I agree! She’s much smaller in person than she looks in her photos, and she has a delicate prance when she walks on the leash. In fact, she is an ideal walking companion because she doesn’t pull at all, and she rarely stops to sniff. She just likes keeping up with her person.

Hayden’s ears waving in the wind

Hayden can be a little shy when she first comes out of her kennel, but after she explored the off-leash run for a bit on her own, she came over to me to get some pets. She sniffed a couple of toys but wasn’t interested in playing with them. However, she does have an athletic side! She jumped right onto the roof of the doghouse and then hopped off the other side like it was no big deal. If you’re looking for a pretty little princess, be sure to say hello to Hayden!

Hayden is such a pretty color

Moose the two-year-old Labrador Retriever/Australian Cattle Dog mix is a very handsome boy, with his one blue eye and one brown eye. He can pull a bit on the leash when he first comes out of his kennel, but settles down nicely once he’s on the woodland preserve trail. Whenever I knelt down to his level, Moose came over to give me a quick doggy kiss and then leaned against my arm while I pet him. He enjoyed sniffing around the off-leash run but wasn’t too interested in toys during this particular outing.

Moose being a good walking buddy

Moose gets along well with other dogs. He was originally sharing his kennel with a Husky who has since been adopted, and he also likes to participate in play groups. His favorite form of play is to chase and be chased. He’s made a couple good doggy friends so far. Be sure to stop in soon to meet Moose!

Moose’s blue eye always makes him look surprised

Baxter the one-year-old Shepherd mix is the most snuggly pup. Whenever I knelt down next to him, regardless of what else was going on around us, Baxter immediately put his front legs into my lap and rested his chin in the crook of my elbow. He also joined me on the bench a couple times and sat in my lap so I could pet him and so he could give me doggy kisses. Baxter is too sweet!

Baxter is too cute

Baxter is barely out of puppyhood, so he has lots of enthusiasm and can occasionally pull on the leash during walks when he gets excited. For the most part, though, he’s a good walking companion. Baxter is currently sharing his kennel with not-yet-profiled Gracie and also regularly participates in play group. He has a long list of doggy friends already! So Baxter definitely has potential to go to a home with another dog. Come by the shelter soon to say hello to Baxter!

Baxter being a lapdog

Rusty the two-year-old Hound mix likes to follow his nose, as Hounds are known to do. He slowly meandered around the off-leash run, exploring along the fence line and behind the bushes. Rusty also liked keeping an eye on what was happening on the other side of the fence and watching other people and dogs go by. After Rusty finished exploring on his own, he put his front paws up on the bench next to me so I could rub his belly and scratch his ears.

Rusty enjoying a chin scratch

Rusty enjoyed taking the occasional break during our walk around the woodland preserve trail to get more pets. Even if he was moving right along, he would stop as soon as I did and come over to cuddle. Although I didn’t get a doggy kiss on this outing, he seemed to seriously consider it when he put his nose right up to mine. Rusty was originally sharing his kennel with a dog who has since been adopted and also participates in play group, so he could go to a home with or without another dog. Come in soon to meet Rusty!

Rusty in the shade

I also saw Brunhilda.

Play group this week included Baxter, Big Boy, Haruto, Hunky, Jupiter, Moose, Prince, Princess, Rusty, Springer, and Titus, as well as the not-yet-profiled Aspen, Buffer, Chili, Clara, Crema, Daisy Mae, Dee Dee, Gerald, Jack, Lake, Shadow, Skittles, Van, Whisper, and Ziggy.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Snuggle in the Snow

A little snow doesn’t put a stop to how much the dogs at Orphans of the Storm® want to cuddle! There are so many super-affectionate dogs available right now. You’ll fall in love with at least one!

Scooby the three-year-old Shepherd/Labrador Retriever mix absolutely loves toys. He enjoys playing fetch, though it might be best to have two tennis balls handy because he loves them so much he doesn’t want to drop the one he currently holds before chasing after the next one. He even tries to fit two tennis balls in his mouth simultaneously, though I haven’t seen him succeed yet. Scooby will happily lean against your legs or try to sit in your lap while chewing on his toys. He particularly enjoys getting his ears and hips scratched.

Scooby sniffing in the snow

Scooby is a nice leash-walking companion. He rarely pulls and walks at an easy pace. Scooby would fit in well in a variety of homes. He attends play group approximately every other day and gets along with the other dogs. He also has the potential to live with children and cats. Stop by the shelter soon to meet snuggly Scooby!

Scooby with his tennis ball (sorry it came out blurry!)

Bailey the eight-year-old Boxer mix already has years of experience living in a home. She’s housebroken and enjoys going for car rides. Bailey is very cuddly and loves getting her hips scratched. She does a little happy dance and turns around to give you a doggy smile when you’re petting the right spots. Bailey is also cat-like in that she enjoys rubbing her whole body against you when she walks by.

Bailey is happy to stay warm with a cute sweater

Bailey enjoys having a yard to romp around in. She’s also good at walking on the leash and likes going for walks. When walking by other dogs, she’ll bark if the other dog barks first, but is quiet if the other dog is quiet. Bailey has shared her kennel with a couple other dogs and is currently sharing with Meshai (see below), and she also participates in play group. However, she likes to be the queen bee in her home and would do best as the only dog. Come in soon to see if Bailey is the one for you!

Bailey enjoys the outdoors

Rhino the two-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix has become an instant volunteer favorite. Every other volunteer I’ve talked to is in love with him, and I am too! Rhino unfortunately got off to a bad start in life and was found tied to a tree. He’s missing some fur around his neck from this, but otherwise you would have no idea he’s had it rough. He is so happy, friendly, and playful. Rhino loves to give doggy hugs and doggy kisses, and appreciates receiving lots of pets in return.

Rhino says, “Yay toys!”

Rhino loves toys. He can keep himself entertained for a long time by holding a toy in his mouth and happily romping around the yard. Sometimes he’ll lay down and chew on the toy for a bit, then get back up and start romping again. Rhino is also super easy to walk on a leash. He attends play group and has gotten along with every dog he’s met so far. We’ve all seen what a gem Rhino is, and hope you’ll see it too!

Rhino thought the tennis ball thrower was a toy too

Meshai the one-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix arrived at the shelter in rough shape (skinny and missing some fur), but we’re making sure he gets better! He’s nervous and shy right now, and needs some convincing to leave his kennel. Once he’s out, though, he’s very gentle and sweet. Meshai is a little uncertain about getting pets and might pull away at first, but he gets more comfortable the longer he’s out and even starts to enjoy getting pets eventually.

Meshai was a little uncertain about the cold

Meshai really perks up when he’s around other dogs, though. He’s currently sharing his kennel with Bailey (see above) and he also attends play group. Meshai likes to actively play with the other dogs, and hops around energetically with his tail wagging. He might feel more comfortable going to a home with another nice dog who can show him the ropes. Come in soon to meet Meshai!

Meshai already knows how to use a doghouse

I also saw Badger (who is walking much better now than the first time I took him out, though he still doesn’t want to go all the way around the trail), Cocoa, and Rascal, as well as a quick walk with the not-yet-profiled Dusty (who is a super easy walking buddy). I also took Princess for a walk, and at every single bench we passed, she hopped up, sat down, and waited expectantly for me to get her lots of pets and kisses.

Play group this week included Bailey, Brunhilda, Jupiter, Meshai, Polly, Princess, Rhino, Rudgie, Sirius, Spike, Spooky, and Titus, as well as the not-yet-profiled dogs Amaryllis, Astrid, Bambi, Chaco, Clara, Dax, Flower, Hunky, Ivy, Lenny, Lucy, Max Becks, Oleander, Penny, Pongo, and Sadie Lou.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Would Be Thankful to Go Home with You

Orphans of the Storm® will be closed on Thanksgiving, but open again at 11am on Friday. It would be a great long weekend to bring home a new family member!

Pony Boy the one-year-old Chinese Shar-Pei mix is a happy boy. His entire body wiggles when he wags his tail, especially when he realizes it’s his turn to come out for a walk. He greeted me and another volunteer with doggy hugs right away. Pony Boy likes staying close to his person so he can get pets often. When we were in the Enrichment Park, Pony Boy was interested in chasing after toys but not as interested in bringing them back to me.

Pony Boy has good woodchip camouflage!

Pony Boy likes to lead the way on walks and can pull a bit on the leash. He’s still a puppy, though, so he probably doesn’t have much leash-walking experience yet. Pony Boy politely sniffed another dog on the other side of the fence when we were out. He’s participated in a couple play groups but is a little nervous about being with a big group of dogs. If you’re looking for a super sweet puppy, come in soon to meet Pony Boy!

Pony Boy says, “Oh boy, a walk!”

Red the two-year-old Chinese Shar-Pei/Labrador Retriever mix is a playful pooch. He can entertain himself with toys and enjoys having a variety of toys to choose from. However, Red sometimes mistakes the leash for a toy too and wants to play tug-of-war when he’s first getting his leash put on. (A couple of his volunteer friends are working with him on this!) Once he’s on the woodland preserve trail, though, he is actually an excellent walking companion and goes at a nice, easy pace.

Red has the cutest wrinkles

Red particularly likes to get his chin and sides of his face scratched and will happily stand by your side as long as you’re petting him. He also likes to give doggy hugs. Red is improving his doggy socialization skills and regularly attends play group, though he tends to prefer the company of female dogs. If you’re looking for an active dog who loves to play, be sure to say hello to Red on your next visit to the shelter!

Red is very attentive

Jackson the three-year-old Labrador Retriever/Collie mix is a big, strong boy–one of the strongest I’ve walked in a while! But he’s very sweet, friendly, and easy-going. Jackson would love to have a big yard to call his own, where he can run a few laps and then play with toys. Jackson is happy to carry a stuffed squeaky toy in his mouth while he romps around, but he also likes to tear out the stuffing when he lies down for a break. I see some sturdy Kong toys in his future!

Jackson happy with his Santa toy (pre-shredded)

Jackson walks at a very quick pace on the leash and sometimes wants to chase after squirrels, but not too often. He looks at you with a doggy smile on his face while you pet him. Jackson also attends play groups. Even though he’s the biggest dog in the yard, the other dogs enjoy playing with him. So, Jackson could go to a home with or without another dog. If you love big dogs, stop by the shelter soon to meet Jackson!

Jackson’s tail is always wagging

Samara the ten-month-old Basset Hound mix is definitely still a puppy. He is super wriggly, super snuggly, and thinks that everything is a toy meant to be played with! This included my camera and occasionally the leash. Overall, though, Samara actually walks very nicely on the leash and is an easy walking companion.

Samara gives the best doggy hugs

Samara loves to give doggy hugs and very exuberant doggy kisses. He jumped into my lap at the first opportunity and was much more interested in cuddling than walking. He also joined me on the bench a couple times and thoroughly licked my ear. Samara gets along with other dogs (particularly other puppies) and attends play group. Come to the shelter soon to say hello to Samara!

My lens got a little blurry after a visit inside Samara’s puppy mouth

Pepper the one-year-old Bluetick Coonhound/Shepherd mix is playful with everybody and everything. She enjoys playing with all kinds of toys and is equally happy to fetch a ball or chew on a stuffed squeaky toy. Pepper is also a “play group rockstar” and gets along great with other dogs. She attends play group almost every single day.

Pepper daintily carrying her Santa toy

Pepper walks nicely on the leash and likes sniffing her way along the woodland preserve trail. She joined me on the bench to get some pets and gave me a quick doggy kiss. Pepper is super cute and will definitely catch your eye as you walk through the shelter. Stop by soon to get to know Pepper!

Pepper is looking for a permanent walking buddy

I also saw Barney and briefly met the not-yet-profiled dogs Charming (who is a cuddle-bug) and Raider.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Enjoy the Bright Autumn Sun

Orphans of the Storm® just welcomed in dozens of new dogs this week, so be sure to stop in over the weekend to meet them! But below are some dogs who have already been at the shelter for a few weeks and are hoping they won’t be overlooked.

Rocky the six-year-old American Staffordshire Terrier mix found himself at the shelter after his owner passed away. This means he has a lifetime of experience living in a home and is already housebroken. Since Rocky is a middle-aged gentleman, he is very mellow and well-behaved. He’s already gone to off-site events and enjoys getting attention from the new people he meets there.

Rocky has a very expressive face

Rocky is an excellent leash-walking companion. He walks at an easy pace and doesn’t pull at all. He happily came over to me to get some snuggles when I sat down on the bench. Rocky occasionally attends play group but can get overwhelmed with larger, boisterous groups, so he prefers the company of calmer dogs like himself. If you’re looking for an easy-going buddy, be sure to meet Rocky on your next visit to the shelter!

Rocky is a cute little guy

Maisie the nine-month-old Shepherd/Border Collie mix is definitely still a puppy. She has that playful, happy puppy energy that immediately puts a smile on your face. Maisie is super snuggly and loves to give doggy kisses. When we were in the off-leash run, she spent most of her time by my side so she could get lots of pets. Maisie also enjoys playing with toys, including both chasing and chewing.

Maisie is ready to cuddle

Maisie is athletic. She could potentially be a great running partner, because she led the entire way around the woodland preserve and only slowed to a walk when I couldn’t keep up anymore. Maisie is a play group regular and has a long list of doggy friends, so she could go to a home with or without another dog. She could also probably go home to a family with children. If you’re looking for a happy, playful pup, come in soon to meet Maisie!

Maisie taking a break from our run

Freyr the two-year-old Terrier mix is a total sweetheart. He loves to give doggy hugs and doggy kisses. When I knelt down to his level, he burrowed himself in my lap and rolled halfway over so I could give him a belly rub. As we were walking around the woodland preserve trail, he stopped and sat right in front of me so we could cuddle more. Freyr is great at walking on the leash.

Freyr is hoping for lots of toys in his new home

Freyr is a playful pooch. He loves toys and particularly enjoyed chewing on a tennis ball, though he also likes to rip his toys apart. As soon as I said it was time to go for a walk, Freyr dropped his tennis ball and came straight to me to get his leash put on. He’s a smart boy! Freyr attends play group and enjoys being with the other dogs, so he could go to a home with or without another dog. Come in soon to meet Freyr!

Freyr has one beautiful blue eye

I also saw Anya, Barney, Jupiter, Kira, Oreo, and Reno.

Play group this week included Anya, Barney, Cocoa, Dunkin, Freyr, Kira, Maisie, Nutella, Polly, Reno, and Wombat, as well as not-yet-profiled dogs Edith, Fannie, Phat, Red, Sasha, Sophie, and Tahini.