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.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Say, “Sun’s Out, Tongues Out!”

It was a steamy day at Orphans of the Storm®, so the dogs were on their most mellow setting and just wanted to relax and stay cool. There will be some long tongues in the photos ahead!

Also, the Orphans of the Storm® website is under construction, so please bear with me as I work on updating all of the dogs’ links on the Dog Profiles page! Apologies in advance if you end up on a “page not found” page.

Luanne the three-year-old Australian Cattle Dog mix is super snuggly. As soon as I knelt down to her level, she put her front paws in my lap and covered my face in doggy kisses. She was happy to stay in my lap for as long as I was petting her. Luanne is a pretty good walking companion in that she mostly walks nicely by your side and doesn’t pull much, but she does like to nibble on the leash a bit. She seems to understand the “drop” command, though, so she just needs a little more practice.

Luanne with her pretty speckled fur

Luanne loves being with other dogs. She goes to play group every day and sometimes stays in for an hour or more–she gets along with everybody! Luanne can also hold her own when play gets a little rowdy. Luanne is a fun girl looking for a fun home. If you think that might be with you, be sure to say hello to Luanne on your next visit to the shelter!

Luanne has bright eyes and a pink tongue!

Ansley the four-year-old Plott mix greets every person with a wagging tail. She was eager to go for a walk and led the way to the off-leash run, where she had a fun time exploring behind the bushes and keeping cool in the shade. She came over for a pet when I knelt down to her level, and put her front paws in my lap.

Ansley on alert

Ansley is currently sharing her kennel with Puddin (see below) and gets along with other dogs. She and Tiny sniffed each other through the fence and even both put their front feet up to hold paws before deciding to race each other. Ansley walked pretty nicely on the leash, though she’ll occasionally pull if there’s a particular scent she wants to follow. Come in soon to see if Ansley is the pooch for you!

Ansley enjoying a romp

Puddin the seven-year-old Beagle mix is very shy right now and needs some extra encouragement to come out of her kennel. She doesn’t mind being picked up and seems to prefer being carried past the kennels of the other dogs before she feels more comfortable walking on her own. Puddin’s tail was tucked between her legs at first, but loosened up the longer we were out.

Puddin feeling perkier

Puddin can’t hide the fact that she’s part Beagle! She loved walking through the tall grasses along the woodland preserve trail and stopped often for thorough sniffing. Puddin gets along with other dogs her size and is currently sharing her kennel with Ansley (see above). She just needs some extra TLC right now to help her come out of her shell. If you’re looking for a little sweetie, come in soon to meet Puddin!

Puddin wanted to stay in the grass for as long as she could

Mabel the four-year-old Chihuahua/Terrier mix is the cutest little thing. As soon as she found a cool spot in the grass, she flopped over and rolled around on her back. When I started giving her a belly rub, Mabel closed her eyes and almost fell asleep! Everyone who saw her couldn’t help but smile, she looked so content.

Mabel says, “Excuse me, I have a belly that requires rubbing!”

Mabel is also a good lapdog. She likes being carried and held. Mabel gets along with other dogs her size. She is currently sharing her kennel with a Beagle not up for adoption yet, and had a brief play group session with four other little dogs. It was too hot to actively play for her, but she politely sniffed everyone and didn’t mind them sniffing her too. Be sure to say hello to Mabel the next time you come to the shelter!

Mabel in play group with new friends

I also spent some time with a few not-yet-profiled dogs but didn’t get their pictures yet: Khavi, Malachi, Nidget, and Carmella (who are all currently sharing a kennel and are all super snuggly lapdogs); Orlando (who is one of the most affectionate dogs at the shelter right now); and Thelma and Louise (a bonded pair of Puggles!).

Play group this week included Alec(k), Beatrix, Brutus, Cass, Cheyenne (Shyanne), Donny, Dunkin the Red, Elijah, Huckleberry, John Boy, Leia, Luanne, Lucy, Maggie, Max, Mojo, Polly, Quinn, Roscoe, Sasha, and Turbo, as well as not-yet-profiled dogs Al, Bruno, Chance, Dennis, Heath, the other Max, PB&J, Pixie, Posie, Ruben, Simone, Snickers, Val, and Wile-E.dd

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Looking for Love This Labor Day Weekend

Orphans of the Storm® will be closed on Monday for Labor Day, but open the regular 11am-5pm hours on Saturday and Sunday. Enjoy the long weekend by welcoming a new dog into your home!

Chevy the seven-year-old Terrier mix is all about the cuddles. As soon as you kneel down to his level, he comes right over and plops down next to you. He also has no problem being picked up and actually seems to enjoy being carried more than he enjoys walking on the leash (though for exercise purposes, he should still walk more than he’s carried). Chevy is a little shy and nervous, so being close to a person is comforting for him.

Chevy is a little cutiepie

Chevy did a little bit of sniffing while we were out but could use some more encouragement when it comes to walking on the leash. Chevy was sharing his kennel with another dog who has since been adopted, so he could go to a home with or without another dog. If you’re looking for a sweet little cuddle-bug, come in soon to meet Chevy!

Chevy says, “I have walked far enough.”

Maggie Mae the two-year-old Labrador Retriever mix is one of the most affectionate dogs at the shelter right now. She greets every person as if they were her long-lost best friend. Maggie Mae gives the most human-like doggy hugs I have ever experienced. She literally wraps her front paws around your waist and will stand like that as long as you let her. She will also cover your face in doggy kisses whenever she’s given the opportunity, and will try to climb into your lap when you sit down.

Maggie Mae is always ready for a cuddle and a kiss

Maggie Mae is active and playful. She can pull a bit on the leash when she first comes out of her kennel, and prefers to walk at a quick pace. She would love a yard to call her own and have plenty of squeaky toys to play with. While Maggie Mae loves people more than anything, she is not a fan of other dogs and would like to be the only dog in her new home. Be sure to say hello to Maggie Mae on your next visit to the shelter!

Maggie Mae is a smiley pooch

Cooper the eight-year-old Border Collie mix excitedly jumped up and down when he realized it was his turn to come out, but then stayed perfectly still when it was actually time to put his leash on. Cooper is a sweet boy who gave me a doggy hug as soon as he came out of his kennel, and gave me several other doggy hugs during the rest of our outing.

Cooper is a good-looking guy

Cooper may be bordering on “senior,” but he doesn’t act like it. He zipped around the Enrichment Park, went a few steps up the A-frame before hopping off, and splashed around the puppy pool. Cooper walks pretty well on the leash, though he does like to weave back and forth to pick up more scents. He isn’t too fond of other dogs, so Cooper would do best as the only dog in his new home. If you’re looking for a smart dog to do all sorts of activities with, come in soon to meet Cooper!

It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s Cooper flying through the Enrichment Park!

I also saw Big Boy and Mojo, Dunkin (who gave me a doggy hug as a hello), Harley, Jasmine, Monte, Nash, Thunder, and Whizzer.

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

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

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

Apollo is always alert

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

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

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

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

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

Marnie’s ears are extra floppy

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

Taz is a precious pup

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

Taz enjoys a thorough sniff through the grass

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

Karma is a pretty girl

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

Karma has plenty of fluff to go around

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

Orphans of the Storm® Puppy Dogs and Older Dogs

There are dogs of all ages at Orphans of the Storm® right now, ready and eager to find their perfect match!

Jasmine the eight-year-old Rhodesian Ridgeback mix (not to be confused with the other Jasmine) is a sweetie-pie. She waited patiently for me to put on her collar and leash, and then we were off. Jasmine pulled a little when she first came out of her kennel, but then settled into being a great walking companion when we went to the woodland preserve. Though she does like to chase birds if they happen to land on the ground near her, so be prepared to run in short spurts!

Jasmine enjoying her walk in the woods

Jasmine is very affectionate. She gives lots of doggy kisses and the occasional doggy hug. When I sat down on the bench, she hopped right up next to me and put her front paws in my lap so we could snuggle. I was the one who had to encourage her to get up and keep walking! Jasmine greets everyone with a wagging tail. Don’t let her “senior” age deter you–she still has plenty of energy, but also good manners. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are extremely rare at the shelter, so if you’re interested in that breed, come in soon to meet Jasmine!

Jasmine knows how to snuggle

Rudy the eleven-month-old Shepherd/Husky mix is a playful pup. As soon as he was in the off-leash run, he bounded around with puppy enthusiasm and ran a few laps. Rudy likes chasing after toys, but rather than bringing them back for a game of fetch, he put all the toys I gave him behind the bushes for later. Rudy enjoys getting pet and likes to give doggy hugs.

Rudy is a happy pup

Rudy, being a puppy, could probably still use some training. He doesn’t seem to have much experience with being on a leash and gets a little nervous when you first try to put a leash on him. He also likes to take the lead and can pull a bit once he is on the leash. Rudy was previously sharing his kennel with another dog who since got adopted, so he could potentially go to a home with or without another dog. If you’re looking for a big, lovable goofball, come in soon to meet Rudy!

Rudy loves the sunshine

Smooch the one-year-old Dogo Argentino mix had two broken legs, but he recovered and now is ready to find his forever home! This sweet boy didn’t let his injuries dampen his spirits. Smooch’s tail is constantly wagging, and he got his name because he would give everyone doggy kisses when he was at the vet. Smooch has beautiful blue-gray eyes, and his face turns pink when he’s extra happy or excited.

Smooch making his way through the grass

Smooch doesn’t take the ability to walk for granted. He absolutely loves going on walks and will happily lead the way. He looks back at you every once in a while as if to say, “Come on, keep up!” Smooch enjoyed romping around the off-leash run and exploring through the bushes. Be sure to say hello to Smooch on your next visit to the shelter!

Smooch coming to give smooches

Conny the one-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix is adorable. She is a permanent puppy size, which makes her great for snuggling. But don’t let her petiteness fool you–she is surprisingly strong for how small she is! Conny started off running around the woodland preserve trail, but she eventually tired herself out and settled into an easier walking pace. She ended up plopping down spread-eagle in the shade to cool off.

Conny says, “Whatcha doin’?”

Conny likes to cuddle. Whenever I knelt down to her level, she’d come bounding over and put her front paws in my lap. Conny loves being with people, but she’s a little more particular about which dogs she likes being with, so she potentially would do best as the only pet in her new home. If you’re interested in having a permanent puppy, come in soon to see if Conny is the one for you!

Conny showing off her wrinkly forehead

Rocky the one-year-old Cairn Terrier mix is the cutest. I couldn’t stop complimenting his looks the entire time we were out. He has the most adorable little face, and his fur is funnily very straight on his front half and then very curly on his back half. Terriers are known for being bold and energetic, and that’s what Rocky is!

Rocky says, “Hello!”

Rocky loves to romp and play. He enjoys exploring when he’s on walks and playing with squeaky toys when he’s in the yard. Rocky sat right next to my feet for a while so I could pet him. He has a little bit of “small dog syndrome” and barks at bigger dogs, but doesn’t seem to mind dogs that are closer to his size. If you have the energy and creativity to keep up with Rocky, come in soon to meet him!

Rocky is too precious

Snow White the eleven-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix is one of the shelter’s long-timers, and I am ashamed with myself for not writing about her before now! Snow White completed an 8-week doggy boot camp and was an excellent learner. She knows many commands, including “sit,” “stay,” and “heel,” and she’s very attentive to whoever is walking her. Snow White likes to get treats, of course, but she’ll do all of her commands without them.

Snow White wondering if I have any treats for her

Snow White both looks and sounds like a pig, which is a compliment. She has a wrinkly nose and a low, round body, and she makes cute snorting noises. She also has a great smile! Snow White isn’t a fan of other dogs and would need to be the only pet in her new home. She’s looking for an experienced dog owner who will keep up with the training she’s already had. Snow White is hoping that “Someday My Prince Will Come” soon. If you think that prince (or princess) might be you, be sure to say hello to Snow White!

Snow White is a well-behaved walking buddy

I also saw Big Boy and Mojo, Hobbs, Lucy, the other Lucy (who loves water and will splash around in anything from a pool to a water bowl), Naida, and Nash.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Looking for a Good Home Where They Can Enjoy the Good Weather

Spring has finally arrived, and the dogs at Orphans of the Storm® are ready to spend lots of time outside enjoying it. But they would like it even more if they were able to go inside a new forever home at the end of the day!

Roxie the nine-month-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix is a super affectionate puppy. There were multiple times when she happily hopped up on the bench next to me, put her front paws in my lap, and gave me lots of doggy kisses. She also liked standing on the bench to get a better look at her surroundings and see what all was going on.

Roxie is eager to say hello

Roxie walks pretty well on the leash considering she’s just a puppy. She can pull a bit when she’s excited, though, particularly when she first comes out of her kennel. But that’s understandable! Roxie isn’t a fan of other dogs, so she would do best as the only dog in her new home. Come in soon to see if Roxie is the pooch for you!

Roxie wondering if I have a treat hiding somewhere

Lucy the two-year-old Husky mix loves to run, which makes perfect sense for her breed! Lucy will stand nicely at your side as long as you’re petting her, but she is off and running again as soon as you stop. Lucy is a smart girl who already knows some commands, such as “sit,” and could learn plenty more.

Lucy knows she’s pretty

Lucy was very interested in the camera and always came right over to stick her nose up to the lens. She’s ready for her close-up! And since she’s such a pretty girl, you’ll be wanting to take plenty of pictures of her anyway. Lucy may do best as the only dog in her new home. If you’re looking for a new partner to motivate you to go running, look no further than Lucy!

Lucy says, “Ooh, whatcha got there?”

Ross the two-year-old Mountain Cur mix is an excitable guy. He gave me a doggy hug as soon as he came out of his kennel and then was off, ready and rarin’ to go. He was happy to give more doggy hugs during our walk, too. Ross also joined me on the bench for a snuggle session halfway through our walk.

Ross is a happy guy

Ross is athletic and might enjoy doing agility. He can jump/climb over fences, so he will need to be supervised if he’s off-leash in a yard. Ross is sometimes bark-y around other dogs and might prefer to be the only dog in his new home. Stop by the shelter soon to meet Ross!

Ross enjoys the outdoors (and a good pet)

Muñeca the three-year-old Chihuahua/Terrier mix is very nervous at the shelter. She wasn’t too sure about getting a leash put on and was scared about getting pet. Muñeca was interested in sniffing me, though, and stayed pretty close when we were walking together. When I sat down in the grass next to her, she came over on her own to check out my shoes.

Muñeca is a little doll (hence her name!)

Muñeca walks nicely on the leash and only pulled when something spooked her. She gets along with other dogs that are closer to her size and is currently sharing her kennel with another small dog. Muñeca is looking for someone who will give her the time and love she needs to help her come out of her shell. If that sounds like you, come in soon to say hello to Muñeca!

Muñeca will warm up with her new person

Trusty the eight-year-old black Labrador Retriever mix is a total sweetheart. He is one of the most easy-going dogs at the shelter right now. A lot of dogs bark when you walk by their kennels, but Trusty sits quietly and wags his tail. He is also a great walking companion and moves at a steady pace without pulling.

Trusty is the definition of a good boy

Trusty always likes to stop for snuggles. He will either join you on the bench or sit at your feet and give you a big doggy smile while you scratch his side and ears. Trusty gets along with other dogs, so he could go to a home with or without a furry friend. He is such a dapper gentleman! Be sure to say hello to Trusty on your next visit to the shelter.

Trusty says, “Follow me!”

Lucy Locket the one-year-old Mountain Cur mix has plenty of energy. As soon as we hit the woodland preserve trail, Lucy Locket was off and running. She did pause every once in a while for the occasional sniff in the grasses and bushes, though. Since Lucy Locket is still a puppy, she could benefit from some additional leash training.

Lucy Locket debating if she should hop on the bench

Lucy Locket joined me on the bench a couple of times so I could pet her more. She has a cute wrinkly forehead and her ears are always perked forward. Lucy Locket isn’t a fan of other dogs, so she would like to be the only dog in her new home. If you’re looking for a fun, playful, and active new companion, come in soon to meet Lucy Locket!

Lucy Locket literally shines in the sun

I also saw Barney, Bella, Brutus, Elijah, Finley, Goliath, Jax, the other Lucy, and Nash.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Enjoy a Good Walk

It was a beautiful day to be outside and enjoy the nice weather, and the dogs at Orphans of the Storm® agreed!

Blanche the eight-year-old chocolate Labrador Retriever mix is incredibly sweet. When she saw me coming in her direction with the leash, she politely sat at the gate to her kennel and patiently waited for me to put the leash on before moving. She is super easy to walk and doesn’t pull at all. If you start petting her while she’s walking, she’ll stop where she is and enjoy the attention.

Blanche has the most loving face

Blanche had a good time exploring the off-leash run, but would come back to me every couple of minutes to check in and get an encouraging pat on the back. She was also happy to give the occasional doggy kiss. Blanche seems to do well with other dogs–in fact, she barely acts like they’re there! She walked right under another dog’s chin and just kept on walking, but didn’t mind when that dog sniffed her more. Blanche is missing some fur on her face and tail, but that doesn’t dampen her spirits at all. If you’re looking for a sweet, older companion, be sure to say hi to Blanche!

Blanche enjoys walking in the woodlands

Pete the nine-month-old Wire-Haired Terrier mix is a fun boy. When he realized it was his turn to go out, he started jumping up and down inside his kennel. As soon as I put the leash on, he gave me a doggy hug and then quickly led us on our way. After that initial burst of excitement, though, Pete calmed down and turned out to be a pretty great walking buddy.

Pete coming to say hello

Pete romped around the off-leash run and investigated underneath and behind the bushes. When I asked if he was ready to go for a walk, he gave me another doggy hug in response, which I took as a yes. As we made our way around the woodland preserve, Pete was happy to take multiple cuddle breaks. He particularly enjoyed getting his hips scratched. Come in soon to see if Pete is the pup for you!

Pete is very content to sit in the sun and be pet

Pike the two-year-old Treeing Walker Coonhound mix is very much a scent hound. It was hard to get a picture of his adorable face because he almost always had his nose to the ground, following an invisible scent trail. Pike is still learning his leash manners and can pull a little when he’s on a walk, but if you’re a quick walker then you can keep up with him.

Pike will follow his nose wherever it goes

Pike is a friendly guy whose tail is almost always wagging. He didn’t bark at all while we were out and mostly just seemed happy to be outside. Pike spent some time in a foster home with another dog, so he could go to a home with or without another pooch. If you’re looking for an active dog, be sure to say hi to Pike!

Pike takes his sniffing seriously

I also saw Bella, Buddie, Carlos, Daffodile, Lucy, Max, Merlin, Oliver, Shyanne, and Snuffles.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Are Eager to Head Home

Orphans of the Storm® will be closed on Monday for Memorial Day, but you can still come in this weekend to find your new best friend! There are dogs big and small, older and younger, all ready to head home with you.

Brutus the two-year-old Labrador Retriever mix is a handsome and fluffy boy. He was very excited to come out for a walk and was happy to lead the way. He pulled on the leash a bit at first, but we soon found a walking pace that worked for both of us and enjoyed making our way around the woodland preserve trail. Brutus is definitely a sniffer. His nose was either along the ground, in a bush, or at the base of a tree trunk.

Brutus has such a sweet face

Brutus will gladly take a break from that to snuggle with you, though! He gave me a few doggy kisses while I was taking his picture. When we got towards the end of the trail, we stopped by a bench and Brutus stood next to me while I pet him. He particularly enjoys getting his hips scratched and does a little dance. He’ll also lean his head into your hand while you scratch his ears and neck. Brutus gets along with adults and children alike, so if you’re looking for a family companion, come in soon to meet him!

Brutus following his nose

Randy the three-year-old Terrier mix is always on the move. He could barely contain his excitement when he realized it was his turn to go out and was jumping up and down inside his kennel. Many of my pictures of Randy are just a brown blur because he thought he had more important things to do than stand still and get his photo taken! I wish I had gotten better pictures, though, because Randy is super-cute with his oversized ears.

Randy on the move

Randy has that signature Terrier spunk. He was always exploring and kept a close eye on the people and dogs we passed. He took the lead on our walk and probably was wishing I would walk faster to keep up with him! Eventually he slowed down long enough for me to scratch his chin, but we were off again soon after. Randy is a bit on the skinny side right now, so his new family can certainly spoil him with plenty of treats when he gets home. If you’re looking for lots of personality in a small package, come in soon to meet Randy!

Randy says, “Please try to keep up!”

Lucy the fourteen-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix is in a particularly sad situation because her original owner became homeless and could no longer take care of her. Nothing would make Lucy’s golden years shine even brighter than joining a new home! She may have a mostly gray snout, but Lucy certainly does not act like a senior. She hopped right out of her kennel and was ready and rarin’ to go on our walk.

Lucy smiling for the camera

Lucy is super adorable. She’s much smaller than most dogs in her breed and has these big bug eyes (which I mean as a compliment). Lucy is an affectionate girl. She hopped up on the bench next to me–again, not very elderly-like–and gave me lots of kisses while I pet her. Then we just sat next to each other for a few minutes, enjoying the sun and the fresh air. If you’ve been thinking about opening your home to a senior, stop by soon to see if Lucy is the one for you!

Lucy loves being with people

I also saw Blush, Courage, Diamond, O’Shea, Weezie, and Zoey.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Ready to Be Your Valentine

Valentine’s Day is just a few days away! What better way to celebrate than by welcoming a lovable new furry friend into your home? The dogs (and cats) at Orphans of the Storm® have so much love to offer, and would be so happy to receive your love in return!

Chiquito the two-year-old Parson Russell Terrier mix was very eager to come outside with me. He may have little legs, but don’t let that fool you–Chiquito is a fast guy! He was happy to take the lead as we made our way around the walking trail. As long as you’re a fast walker too, though, Chiquito doesn’t really pull on the leash. Chiquito is super cute, with ears that perk straight up when he’s interested in something and a curly tail that he holds high in the air.

Chiquito loves going for walks

Chiquito sort of did his own thing while we were on our walk around the trail, but when we went to the off-leash run afterwards that’s when he showed his snuggly side. It was a little chilly, so I scooped Chiquito into my arms to give him some extra warmth and he was happy to be held. Chiquito’s breed is an active one, so Chiquito would prefer to go to a home that will keep him busy. Stop by soon to see if Chiquito is the pooch for you!

Chiquito’s cute curly tail

Marley the two-year-old Labrador Retriever/Mastiff mix is a big boy with a big heart. I was a little nervous that he would pull me over once I put his leash on, but in fact he walks nicely on the leash. Marley loves pretty much everybody. We passed several people on our way to the off-leash run and Marley greeted all of them with so much of a wagging tail that his entire body was wriggling with happiness. There is no way you can meet Marley and not have a smile on your face.

Marley’s big, lovable face

Marley is super affectionate. He loves to give people doggy hugs and, since he’s so tall on his hind legs, he can easily give you doggy kisses at the same time because his big face is right there next to yours! Marley is also a playful pooch. He had a fun time racing the dog in the run next to ours, and enjoyed chasing and chewing on a tennis ball. He hasn’t been at the shelter for long, but he’s already a volunteer favorite. If you’re looking for a big lovebug, come in soon to meet Marley!

My pictures do not give Marley’s adorableness justice

Shyanne/Cheyenne the six-year-old Hound mix is a pretty girl with lots of love to offer. She was ready to come outside for a walk and pulled on the leash a bit at first because she was so excited, but by the end of our visit together she had settled into a nice walking companion. Shyanne/Cheyenne has those lovey-dovey Hound eyes that will make sure you take a second look at her.

Shyanne/Cheyenne the sweetie

Shyanne/Cheyenne is a real sweetheart with people. Shortly after we got to the off-leash run, she came walking over to where I was kneeling and rested her chin in my lap so I could pet her. Although Shyanne/Cheyenne attends play group and is getting better with being around other dogs, she would still prefer to be the only dog in her new home. But with a dog as sweet as Shyanne/Cheyenne, one is all you need! Come in soon to see if Shyanne/Cheyenne is the dog for you.

Shyanne/Cheyenne following her nose

Shadow the one-year-old Labrador Retriever mix is definitely still in her puppy phase, which makes her so much fun to be around! She believes everything is a toy, including the leash, jacket sleeves, and boots (even while they’re still on a person’s foot)–but she’s happy to be distracted by an actual toy, like a tennis ball. Shadow will need some training, but that’s true for any young pup. And since Shadow is so playful, she’ll think the training is just another type of game!

Shadow’s ready to snuggle

Shadow is a cuddly girl. She tried to jump up on the bench next to me but isn’t quite coordinated enough yet, so I moved down to the ground and she gave me doggy kisses. Shadow does the cute puppy-type thing where she’ll run and run and run and then suddenly plop down because she tired herself out so fast. Don’t let her initial puppy craziness turn you off right away–she’s just happy and excited and wants to play! Stop by soon and say hello to Shadow.

Shadow playing with a real toy

Boomer the five-year-old Terrier mix convinced me to take him out because he was quietly sitting and wagging his tail at me when all of the other dogs around him were barking and jumping. I thought good manners should be rewarded, so I brought him out for a walk! Boomer continued to show that he has good manners by walking nicely on the leash as we made our way to the run.

Boomer has a cute face

Boomer has a very unique look. I’m not sure if it’s the result of a bad haircut or it’s just his natural look, but he has a “mane” of much longer fur around his shoulders, while the fur on the rest of his body is short. Either way, it’s both cute and funny. Boomer also has a very sweet face. He was a little shy at first, and was more interested in sniffing the dog in the run next to ours, but eventually he came over to me and enjoyed a good scratch on the back. Poor Boomer was not eager to go back to his kennel at the end of our visit, and I wasn’t eager to put him back either! Be sure to say hi to Boomer on your next visit to the shelter.

Boomer says, “The sun is so bright!”

I also saw Angel, Blush, Bootsy, Clarinet, John Boy, Lisa, Rooney, Showtime, and Zoey.

Orphans of the Storm® Dogs Are Super

Some of the dogs at Orphans of the Storm® are energetic and eager to say hello to anyone and everyone, while others are a little more reserved and need a few minutes to warm up to new people. Either way, what all of them really want is a loving home to call their own. This week, I met both types!

Mary the two-year-old Terrier mix is one of the dogs on the shy side. She seems a bit overwhelmed by the shelter environment and was sitting in the back of her kennel, rather than up at the front to sniff people as they walk by. But when she realized she was coming outside for a walk, she perked right up! Mary walked pretty well on the leash, though since she’s a little nervous she would sometimes stop and duck behind me if she saw or heard something.

Mary is such a cutie

Mary may be shy, but that doesn’t stop her from being super snuggly! Whenever I knelt down next to her, she put her front paws in my lap and gave me a few little doggy kisses. When she wasn’t attempting to climb into my lap, she was leaning against my legs while I pet her and seemed to appreciate the fact that someone was giving her love and attention. Stop by the shelter soon to see if Mary is the next cuddle-buddy for you!

Mary being a good walking companion

Jarvis the one-and-a-half-year-old Hound mix is as outgoing as they come. His short tail is constantly wagging and he’s happy to greet every person he sees. Jarvis has quickly become a volunteer favorite because of his great personality. Jarvis is just barely out of puppyhood, so he still has plenty of energy and would do best with a family that can keep him active and engaged.

Jarvis smiling for the camera

Jarvis, being a Hound mix, always wants to explore everything. We went dashing through the snow, stopping every few feet so Jarvis could sniff around. Jarvis would probably make a good running buddy for anyone looking for a new exercise partner in the new year. Jarvis is sure to bring a smile to your face with his exuberance. A happy-go-lucky pooch like Jarvis won’t stay at the shelter for long, so come in soon to see if Jarvis is the one for you!

Jarvis enjoying the snow under his paws

Cosmo the one-year-old Shepherd mix is an absolutely stunning all-white dog who, unfortunately, is extremely nervous at the shelter. I’ve been getting to know him over the last three weeks by sitting in the outdoor portion of his kennel with him, giving him plenty of treats and words of encouragement. I was thrilled that I could finally take him for a walk this week! Since he’s still young and doesn’t appear to have had the best start in life, Cosmo doesn’t seem particularly comfortable with being on a leash–but the longer we were out together, the better he walked.

Cosmo is such a handsome boy

Cosmo seems very food-oriented and will gently take treats from your hand, then lick your fingers to get the crumbs. He doesn’t mind being pet, especially if it’s nice and gentle. Cosmo just needs an owner who will take the time to build his trust and show him the world isn’t such a scary place. He has so much potential to be a wonderful, loyal companion. I plan on spending time with him every week as long as he’s at the shelter, and you should visit too to get to know Cosmo!

Cosmo has a signature “one ear up, one ear down” look

I also saw Bella, Blush, Corky, Courage, Diamond, Ebbie, Lady, Lucky, and Topaz.