Digby
Dear
Santa,
It's
me again—Digby. I'm sorry to keep asking year after year, but all I want for
Christmas is an honest-to-goodness, official family of my very own. Is there
anyone out there who could look past my scarred face and snaggletooth and love
ME? I know it's a lot to ask. But I believe in miracles... otherwise I wouldn't
be alive today. Had a STAF volunteer not found me in the park that day, I would
have died from the parvo, the mange and all those nasty fleas that were eating
me alive. Three Christmases have come and gone since then and my health is now
in check, thanks to the help of a great holistic vet. I'm on a diet because of
my allergies. Can't have poultry, potatoes and other veggies—but that's OK
because I loves me my lamb and rice!
To
refresh your memory, Santa, I'm four years old and I've been told I'm pretty
sweet. Humans (including the little kind), other dogs, cats … I love them all. I
promise to be a good dog if I could just have a spot in the sun, a place to
watch the world go by, and maybe an occasional ride in the
car.
I
don’t mean to be greedy, Santa. I really am *so grateful* to be alive, to have a
safe place to sleep and regular meals. But more than anything I want to
belong somewhere. Forever. With someone who can't imagine life without
me.
Your
friend,
Digby
close
12 Dogs, one wish
… a home for the holidays.
Save
the Animals Foundation's
12 Dogs of Christmas
Amid
the craze of the holidays, take a lesson from the Book of Dog: Slow down.
Smell the turkey. Enjoy this very moment. Here to bring some canine Zen into
your season, we present this year's 12 Dogs of Christmas.
They
came to us broken down and broken-hearted. Some were found wandering the
streets, others dumped in county shelters for clandestine killing, and still
others surrendered to us by their beloved humans for reasons ranging from
foreclosure to mere inconvenience.
But
those are the ghosts of Christmas Past. We are appealing to the spirit of
Christmas Ever-After to send 12 lucky families to love them now, and forever.
Here's how you can help…
- ADOPT! Visit Save the Animals
Foundation and find your joy, your jingle… your four-legged happy place.
- SPREAD THE WORD!
</body>
"like"
us on Facebook, make your favorite "12 Dog" the background on your office
computer…
Can’t
give the gift of a home? Cash works! Every bit helps us continue to save more
precious animals like these.
Wishing
you a fun, fur-filled season!
- The
Volunteers of Save the Animals Foundation
Click
on an adorable face to learn more!
Copyright
© 2013 Save the Animals Foundation, Cincinnati, OH. All rights reserved.
Tripper
In
the great debate of nature vs. nurture, Tripper is a solid point for nature. His
owner lost her house to foreclosure, and Tripper had been living there on his
own for several weeks. But this alone did not explain his condition when we
first met him: scabby elephant skin where hair should be, nails so long they
were curled in a spiral, a circus of fleas in the little hair he had on his
head, goopy eyes and gumped-up ears.
Tripper
led an isolated life prior to STAF. In the seven years she'd had Tripper, his
owner had never had him to the vet or even beyond the confines of her property.
He had not met another human since he was a puppy, left "free to a good home" in
front of a feed store. So it stands to reason that Tripper would be fearful,
uncomfortable in social situations, and anxious out in the world. Yet he is none
of that.
Tripper's
tail was wagging from the moment he walked through our door in June, and hasn't
stopped since. For us volunteers, it was love at first sight. We were struck by
the trusting gaze and sweet, gentle nature of this dog who looked like he'd been
through hell and back.
Tripper
has had every medical test we can think of … all is clear. His hair loss is due
to years of untreated flea allergies … "tragic," in our vet's words, since he
could have so easily been spared this kind of suffering with simple flea
preventative. He will never get all his hair back, but a person can experience
the oddly-satisfying sensation of petting his warm, leathery, solid self.
Besides, think of all the dog hair you won't have to pick out of your
homemade sugar cookies! Plus, Tripper provides an opportunity for you to
legitimately dress up your dog.
Any
outer impression of frailty is quickly abated by Tripper's upbeat,
game-for-anything attitude … especially if that game is fetch! You could play
with him without ever leaving your chair—he is that good at bringing the
ball back and dropping it right at your feet. On the occasional overnight with
volunteers, Tripper has been a perfect gentleman of a houseguest. His demeanor
is so sweet and non-threatening that other dogs can't help but react positively
to him.
When
asked what he wanted for Christmas, Tripper replied, "What?! You mean there's
more?!" He treats every day like Christmas. He is gratitude embodied in the
endearing exterior of a Giant Chinese Crested.
Houser
Houser
is one of hundreds of dogs alive today because they made it out of a high-kill
county shelter, and into the safe harbor of STAF. In Houser's case, he was a
volunteer-favorite at that county shelter … and since his arrival at STAF this
summer, we can easily see why. He was scared silly at first. But as he gradually
came to understand that he would find nothing but kindness here, he's come out
of his shell. It's as tho his inner puppy has finally been set
free!
Houser
is still shy at first around strangers, but we have seen his big, cheery
personality start to shine. He looks rather dignified in his photo, but he
reverts to a goofy 1 ½ year old when it's time for day care. (Thank you, Red
Dog!) Picture him spinning in circles with a wild wiggle butt and a big, fat
smile on his face. Utterly excited, he has to sit in the front seat, even
if it means sharing.
We
are guessing this handsome work of dogdom to be boxer (which accounts for his
silly, happy-go-lucky attitude and hard-playing nature) mixed with lovebug. He
eats up the attention and if you stop too soon will butt his head into you for
"more, please!"
As is
often the case with our death row rescues, we know nothing about Houser's past.
But we do know that his future includes one incredibly lucky family whose
everyday will soon be a little brighter.
Ralphie
We
have never met another dog like Ralphie— around 25 pounds, with the coloring of
a dalmation and the short, squat build of a corgi or Jack Russell Terrier. He's
a real original!
When
he was first found as a stray, he appeared to be recently groomed and
housebroken, but after attempts to find his lost family came up empty, Ralphie
came to STAF. That was a year ago, just in time for Christmas 2012. We named him
after the little boy in A Christmas Story. Instead of an official Red
Ryder, carbine action, two-hundred shot range model air rifle, our Ralphie's
deepest, dearest wish is a family of his own.
One
of our favorite little quirky dogs ever, Ralphie is always happy, happy to see
his volunteer-friends. So much so that you kind of look around to see if Santa
is standing behind you, or perhaps a big, juicy steak. But nope… it's you
that elicits that over-the-moon reaction. And boy does it feel
good!
While
Ralphie loves company and belly rubs, you'll need to earn his trust for full
body pets and hugs. Close contact makes him uneasy. Like many of us, he is
sensitive about his hind end and does not like to be touched there. While is
fine with people he knows well, newer acquaintances who overstep these ground
rules may be reminded with a snap. For this reason, Ralph is not be a good
choice for homes with children too young (or humans too pushy) to remember and
respect these limits. Dogs, on the other hand, are a definite YES! Ralphie has
gotten along with every dog he's ever been paired with—any size, any time. We
especially love his Godzilla move with the big dogs: upright on his hind legs,
front paws waving. He is one spunky monkey!
Not
the dog for baby-talking or hyperactive types, Ralphie responds best to calm,
assertive people. He is great on a leash, in the car and as a house guest. A
smart, active two-year-old, Ralphie will be happiest with daily exercise and
mental games. He's a fast learner, quickly catching on to commands like "Sit,"
"Give paw," and "Go Godzilla!"
Lucas
It’s
the time of year when we start thinking of our shelter as the Island of Misfit
Toys. (Which is where, as Rudolph discovered, all the coolest toys hang out.) In
the role of "Dolly for Sue" we have Lucas, so seemingly perfect and therefore
out of place amid ostrich-riding cowboys and jelly-shooting water pistols.
Maybe, like Lucas, Dolly suffered from a bad case of separation
anxiety.
The
kid had quite a rough start in life. Back in the summer of 2012, this big hunk
of a lab was dumped at county shelter, heartworm positive and head covered in
scars. Now in tip-top shape, three-year-old Lucas is in search of a family that
can give him what he craves most—lots of companionship. He loves everyone—dog
and human, alike—and has a laidback kind of personality, so he should be easy to
include in family activities.
Lucas
loves car rides and walks—prefers several short walks over one long one. He's
happy to play a game or just hang out … whatever you want. Thanks to the
generosity of The Pet Spot, Lucas attends doggy daycare every week. He is an
excellent car passenger who enjoys looking out the window watching the world go
by. Doesn't even drool on the windows. Good dog!
Lucas
would have been adopted a dozen times over were it not for his separation
anxiety. We know firsthand that this is an issue that can be worked through.
We've seen it happen and can offer lots of counsel and support. But it is a
process that takes time, an accommodating schedule and, above all, a patient and
dedicated human determined not to leave an amazing lab like Lucas
stranded.
Boone
There
was nothing remarkable about Boone's arrival at STAF. One day he was part of a
family. The next day, not. His owner got a new job and relocated … five-year-old
Boone no longer fit into her life. Sadly, it's a common
story.
But
Boone is anything but a common dog. As far as we're concerned he's darn near
perfect, with those soulful brown eyes and big ol' ears that beg to be rubbed.
He is quite the love, but not in an overbearing way. Outside he'll sit at your
feet and lean up against you, just to be sure you're there. He also enjoys an
occasional flip of the tennis ball and even brings it back! He's equally
terrific company for another dog. He has several canine friends at the shelter
and plays well with all of them. Back in his run, he curls up into an adorable
red velvet doughnut and waits patiently for his next outing or snuggle with a
favorite volunteer.
Boone's
list of loves includes car rides, soft beds and long walks. He walks with his
head up very high, with a pride that resonates all the way up the leash to the
human on the other end. He is housebroken and (provided you do your part by
taking him on those aforementioned walks) is happy to take long naps or chew on
bones for hours. He reminds us of those classic hounds in films that keep watch
on the front porch all day. He is a good, good dog … sweet as peach
pie!
Tacoma
and his littermates were born in a junked truck bed liner in the summer of 2011.
Mom (a basset mix) and pups came to STAF and found homes right away. Six months
later Tacoma was returned … "damaged goods."
During
those formative months, Tacoma spent much of his time locked in his crate. His
former home took him to training classes in which the instructor lifted him off
the floor, literally hanging him by his leash to teach submission. The only
lesson Tacoma took away is that people hurt, leaving him to this day with a
mistrust of strangers.
Tacoma
goes on regular home visits with his favorite volunteer. He has excellent
house-manners and is completely housebroken. While he enjoys walks and is very
well-behaved on lead, he is more or less a lug around the house, lounging 80% of
the time. When he does have an energy spurt, he loves to play with the female
dog in the house. In warmer weather, he has the best of fun splashing in the
kiddie pool and trying to entice other dogs to do the
same.
Tacoma
is all bark in the beginning, but once he is comfortable with you, you will
discover an über lovebug of a dog. One who craves loads of belly rubs and is
freakishly perceptive when it comes to understanding commands and interpreting
what someone expects from him. He is incredibly responsive to positive training
methods and will thrive with structure, routine, and a calm and confident
leader. He is not a natural alpha, but will revert to that role if it's lacking
in his "pack." Dog siblings (preferably female) would be a big
plus.
Because
of his stunning good looks, Tacoma gets lots of attention at adoption time … but
the right home will understand that the way to this dog's heart is mutual
respect. Give him time to trust you, treat him with a firm, fair hand, and he
will become your true mutt-mate.
Little
Edie
If
you like short and sweet, meet our resident love sponge. Little Edie is happiest
when she is being snuggled, dressed up and carried around. She would no doubt
take right to one of those little pooch-purses for accompanying her human out on
errands.
This
girl is off-the-charts adorable, from ears that have a mind of their own, to a
shake that starts at her head and works its way down to her tail, to her ability
to self-entertain … Give her a treat and she'll toss it up and chase it around
for a while before finally gobbling it down.
She
is a classic little beauty who would love to follow someone around all day just
to see what they're doing, grab some cat naps in the sun, and cuddles in the
evening. In the relatively short time she's been at the shelter, she is very
attentive and responds well to commands.
Some
folks are surprised to learn that Little Edie came to us from a high-kill county
shelter. (Yes, even cute little dogs are euthanized.) We were told that her
owner could no longer care for her due to financial and health reasons.
Thankfully Little Edie caught a one-way ticket out of that big, scary place just
in the nick of time. Now she's waiting to put the "merry little" into some lucky
family's Christmas.
Sydney
Less
than a year old, Sydney is the youngest of our "12 Dogs." She was found during a
rainstorm … a soggy little ragamuffin playing dodge with traffic in an
intersection. Even after years of seeing dogs treated like disposables, we are
still surprised every time a dog like this goes unclaimed. She had obviously
belonged somewhere in the not-so-distant past. Yet no one came looking. So,
after a stint in a foster home, Sydney came to the
shelter.
True
to the aussie in her, she is one smart and energetic cookie, which makes the
confinement and limited exercise of a shelter particularly hard on her. It's
like locking a 7-year-old in a closet. We do what we can to keep her happy and
sane. Sydney attends obedience class (thanks to our dear friend and wonderful
trainer Lydia McCarthy!) and doggy day care (thanks to Red Dog!). But what this
bright and spirited adolescent really needs is to get back into a home ASAP
where she can get the daily workout (both physical and mental) she needs to grow
into a well-mannered young lady. At the moment she's more like a beautiful,
bubbly, but slightly spoiled cheerleader. Another dog with a similar
energy-level and play style would be icing on the cake.
Sydney
is great in the car. She enjoys a good game of fetch with volunteers, and can
also entertain herself with a stick. In the warmer weather she likes to play in
water. And at the end of the day loves to snuggle. Got sheep? You are Sydney's
dream home! Got little kids? Probably not such a great fit as Sydney would have
great fun herding them, too!
Boston
We're
hoping that the same year that has brought the city of Boston a World Series
Championship will also bring our Boston (STAF dog and loverlump) a big win of
his own. It would the perfect ending to a year that started as anything
but.
Boston
was our first arrival of 2013. He'd been found as an emaciated stray, roaming a
neighborhood for several days before a kind-hearted soul took him to the local
vet to await rescue. His size, age (5 at the time), and—adding insult to
injury—a positive heartworm reading were three strikes against him. But it just
so happens we at STAF have a weakness for the big boys with soulful eyes and sad
stories to tell. So to STAF he came. And he's been a volunteer favorite ever
since.
A 6
½-year-old St. Bernard mixed with something lanky-legged, Boston is sweet,
affectionate, and an all-around nice guy. He is such a gentleman, waiting
patiently for his turn to go out, and walking leisurely with excellent manners
and great dignity. He's a lady's man, preferring the company of female
dogs.
Boston's
bumper sticker would read, "I brake for belly rubs." Other loves include toys,
tennis balls, car rides and a good brushing. Boston has been a dream dog on
overnight visits with volunteers. Sound like your kind of guy? Hurry up and
visit! Boston is hoping to ring in the new year with a family of his own. (If
you are a Yankee fan, you reserve the right to rename.)
Bandit
Bandit
was only a year old when his family left him to die in an overfilled,
underfunded rural shelter. He didn't have long to wait … owner-surrenders are
the first to be euthanized. Fortunately for Bandit (and for his future
home-to-be), he pulled a get-out-of-jail-alive card and came to our
shelter—filthy, bone-thin and scared. Always suckers for the shy dogs (OK,
any dog), we volunteers instantly fell for those puppy dog eyes and
classic hound dog ways.
That
was a year and a half ago. (Over ten in dog years!) Since then, Bandit has said
hello and goodbye to many canine playmates who have done their time and moved on
to families of their own. If adopters were to see the fun-loving Bandit that we
know and love, he would already be off making some lucky family's life a better
place. But he's like Michigan J. Frog, that Vaudevillian amphibian of Looney
Tunes fame who breaks into incredible feats of singing and dancing for a select
audience—but in front of anyone else … nothing.
The
highlight of Bandit's week is his weekend walk. He does a happy dance in his run
when he sees his "date" arrive. Then it's a car ride (woo hoo!) to the
park to sniff around and soak in the fresh air. At times like these, his eyes
light up like Christmas trees and many contend that he has the best smile in the
shelter. (So don't let the verge-of-tears expression in his photo fool
you!)
One
of our go-to playmates for pairing with other dogs, Bandit would be a fabulous
choice for a family looking to add to their pack. He just needs a home willing
to put in a little extra time to get over his initial shyness. We promise you
it's worth it to see this guy sing and dance.
Tanner
Combine
the lovability of a teddy bear and the strength of an ox, and you've got Tanner.
His big, buoyant personality fills the room when we show him at adoption time.
He bursts through the door with his crazy wiggle-butt and immediately starts
working the crowd, giving sloppy, enthusiastic kisses to all who are willing.
(And then some.) He will proudly show off his basic obedience skills, including
one awesome shake. As you can see from his photo, he is also a great sport when
it comes to things like wearing fluffy white beards.
Judging
by his bubbly nature, you'd never guess the hard-knock life this guy has had:
found as a stray five years ago, adopted into a home only to be abandoned again
a few years later when his owner came upon hard times … and in a kennel
situation ever since. Being very people-oriented dogs, bully breeds like Tanner
generally deteriorate rapidly in the stress of a shelter setting. Thanks to the
official Tan-Man Fan Club that gets him out on regular jogs and outings, Tanner
is hanging in … but we can see the strain starting to wear. He is wound a little
tight at the shelter and visibly sad when his human friends aren't
near.
On
his occasional sleepovers with volunteers, though, he is happy and relaxed. He
is housebroken, gravitates toward the couch, and—provided he gets sufficient
exercise (a good 30-40 minute walk a day should do)—can be trusted to have free
reign without being destructive. Tanner likes the simpler things in life ... a
Kong filled with peanut butter, belly rubs, a game of fetch, a lap to curl up
on. ("What do you mean 'too big?' I'm a perfect fit. See? Now shut up and
give me a kiss!")
Although
he lived with another dog (as well as two cats) in his previous home, Tanner can
be unpredictable around other dogs and may be happiest as a family's
one-and-only. If you like the sound of a walk-a-day, hang out on the couch,
soul-mate kind of dog, pucker up and come meet Tanner!
From: BK [mailto:brendamathes3@comcast.net]
Sent: Friday, December 13, 2013 8:16 PM
Subject: SAD!!!
Cincinnati, OH. All he wants is a home for Christmas and he has been waiting for
three years.
This is
a heartbreaker. Hope he gets his wish!
Sent:
Friday, December 13, 2013 4:33:50 AM
Subject: Cincinnati, OH.
All he wants is a home for Christmas and he has been waiting for three
years.
Digby
Dear
Santa,
It's
me again—Digby. I'm sorry to keep asking year after year, but all I want for
Christmas is an honest-to-goodness, official family of my very own. Is there
anyone out there who could look past my scarred face and snaggletooth and love
ME? I know it's a lot to ask. But I believe in miracles... otherwise I wouldn't
be alive today. Had a STAF volunteer not found me in the park that day, I would
have died from the parvo, the mange and all those nasty fleas that were eating
me alive. Three Christmases have come and gone since then and my health is now
in check, thanks to the help of a great holistic vet. I'm on a diet because of
my allergies. Can't have poultry, potatoes and other veggies—but that's OK
because I loves me my lamb and rice!
To
refresh your memory, Santa, I'm four years old and I've been told I'm pretty
sweet. Humans (including the little kind), other dogs, cats … I love them all. I
promise to be a good dog if I could just have a spot in the sun, a place to
watch the world go by, and maybe an occasional ride in the
car.
I
don’t mean to be greedy, Santa. I really am *so grateful* to be alive, to have a
safe place to sleep and regular meals. But more than anything I want to
belong somewhere. Forever. With someone who can't imagine life without
me.
Your
friend,
Digby
close
12 Dogs, one wish
… a home for the holidays.
Save
the Animals Foundation's
12 Dogs of Christmas
Amid
the craze of the holidays, take a lesson from the Book of Dog: Slow down.
Smell the turkey. Enjoy this very moment. Here to bring some canine Zen into
your season, we present this year's 12 Dogs of Christmas.
They
came to us broken down and broken-hearted. Some were found wandering the
streets, others dumped in county shelters for clandestine killing, and still
others surrendered to us by their beloved humans for reasons ranging from
foreclosure to mere inconvenience.
But
those are the ghosts of Christmas Past. We are appealing to the spirit of
Christmas Ever-After to send 12 lucky families to love them now, and forever.
Here's how you can help…
- ADOPT! Visit Save the Animals
Foundation and find your joy, your jingle… your four-legged happy place.
- SPREAD THE WORD!
</body>
"like"
us on Facebook, make your favorite "12 Dog" the background on your office
computer…
Can’t
give the gift of a home? Cash works! Every bit helps us continue to save more
precious animals like these.
Wishing
you a fun, fur-filled season!
- The
Volunteers of Save the Animals Foundation
Click
on an adorable face to learn more!
Copyright
© 2013 Save the Animals Foundation, Cincinnati, OH. All rights reserved.
Tripper
In
the great debate of nature vs. nurture, Tripper is a solid point for nature. His
owner lost her house to foreclosure, and Tripper had been living there on his
own for several weeks. But this alone did not explain his condition when we
first met him: scabby elephant skin where hair should be, nails so long they
were curled in a spiral, a circus of fleas in the little hair he had on his
head, goopy eyes and gumped-up ears.
Tripper
led an isolated life prior to STAF. In the seven years she'd had Tripper, his
owner had never had him to the vet or even beyond the confines of her property.
He had not met another human since he was a puppy, left "free to a good home" in
front of a feed store. So it stands to reason that Tripper would be fearful,
uncomfortable in social situations, and anxious out in the world. Yet he is none
of that.
Tripper's
tail was wagging from the moment he walked through our door in June, and hasn't
stopped since. For us volunteers, it was love at first sight. We were struck by
the trusting gaze and sweet, gentle nature of this dog who looked like he'd been
through hell and back.
Tripper
has had every medical test we can think of … all is clear. His hair loss is due
to years of untreated flea allergies … "tragic," in our vet's words, since he
could have so easily been spared this kind of suffering with simple flea
preventative. He will never get all his hair back, but a person can experience
the oddly-satisfying sensation of petting his warm, leathery, solid self.
Besides, think of all the dog hair you won't have to pick out of your
homemade sugar cookies! Plus, Tripper provides an opportunity for you to
legitimately dress up your dog.
Any
outer impression of frailty is quickly abated by Tripper's upbeat,
game-for-anything attitude … especially if that game is fetch! You could play
with him without ever leaving your chair—he is that good at bringing the
ball back and dropping it right at your feet. On the occasional overnight with
volunteers, Tripper has been a perfect gentleman of a houseguest. His demeanor
is so sweet and non-threatening that other dogs can't help but react positively
to him.
When
asked what he wanted for Christmas, Tripper replied, "What?! You mean there's
more?!" He treats every day like Christmas. He is gratitude embodied in the
endearing exterior of a Giant Chinese Crested.
Houser
Houser
is one of hundreds of dogs alive today because they made it out of a high-kill
county shelter, and into the safe harbor of STAF. In Houser's case, he was a
volunteer-favorite at that county shelter … and since his arrival at STAF this
summer, we can easily see why. He was scared silly at first. But as he gradually
came to understand that he would find nothing but kindness here, he's come out
of his shell. It's as tho his inner puppy has finally been set
free!
Houser
is still shy at first around strangers, but we have seen his big, cheery
personality start to shine. He looks rather dignified in his photo, but he
reverts to a goofy 1 ½ year old when it's time for day care. (Thank you, Red
Dog!) Picture him spinning in circles with a wild wiggle butt and a big, fat
smile on his face. Utterly excited, he has to sit in the front seat, even
if it means sharing.
We
are guessing this handsome work of dogdom to be boxer (which accounts for his
silly, happy-go-lucky attitude and hard-playing nature) mixed with lovebug. He
eats up the attention and if you stop too soon will butt his head into you for
"more, please!"
As is
often the case with our death row rescues, we know nothing about Houser's past.
But we do know that his future includes one incredibly lucky family whose
everyday will soon be a little brighter.
Ralphie
We
have never met another dog like Ralphie— around 25 pounds, with the coloring of
a dalmation and the short, squat build of a corgi or Jack Russell Terrier. He's
a real original!
When
he was first found as a stray, he appeared to be recently groomed and
housebroken, but after attempts to find his lost family came up empty, Ralphie
came to STAF. That was a year ago, just in time for Christmas 2012. We named him
after the little boy in A Christmas Story. Instead of an official Red
Ryder, carbine action, two-hundred shot range model air rifle, our Ralphie's
deepest, dearest wish is a family of his own.
One
of our favorite little quirky dogs ever, Ralphie is always happy, happy to see
his volunteer-friends. So much so that you kind of look around to see if Santa
is standing behind you, or perhaps a big, juicy steak. But nope… it's you
that elicits that over-the-moon reaction. And boy does it feel
good!
While
Ralphie loves company and belly rubs, you'll need to earn his trust for full
body pets and hugs. Close contact makes him uneasy. Like many of us, he is
sensitive about his hind end and does not like to be touched there. While is
fine with people he knows well, newer acquaintances who overstep these ground
rules may be reminded with a snap. For this reason, Ralph is not be a good
choice for homes with children too young (or humans too pushy) to remember and
respect these limits. Dogs, on the other hand, are a definite YES! Ralphie has
gotten along with every dog he's ever been paired with—any size, any time. We
especially love his Godzilla move with the big dogs: upright on his hind legs,
front paws waving. He is one spunky monkey!
Not
the dog for baby-talking or hyperactive types, Ralphie responds best to calm,
assertive people. He is great on a leash, in the car and as a house guest. A
smart, active two-year-old, Ralphie will be happiest with daily exercise and
mental games. He's a fast learner, quickly catching on to commands like "Sit,"
"Give paw," and "Go Godzilla!"
Lucas
It’s
the time of year when we start thinking of our shelter as the Island of Misfit
Toys. (Which is where, as Rudolph discovered, all the coolest toys hang out.) In
the role of "Dolly for Sue" we have Lucas, so seemingly perfect and therefore
out of place amid ostrich-riding cowboys and jelly-shooting water pistols.
Maybe, like Lucas, Dolly suffered from a bad case of separation
anxiety.
The
kid had quite a rough start in life. Back in the summer of 2012, this big hunk
of a lab was dumped at county shelter, heartworm positive and head covered in
scars. Now in tip-top shape, three-year-old Lucas is in search of a family that
can give him what he craves most—lots of companionship. He loves everyone—dog
and human, alike—and has a laidback kind of personality, so he should be easy to
include in family activities.
Lucas
loves car rides and walks—prefers several short walks over one long one. He's
happy to play a game or just hang out … whatever you want. Thanks to the
generosity of The Pet Spot, Lucas attends doggy daycare every week. He is an
excellent car passenger who enjoys looking out the window watching the world go
by. Doesn't even drool on the windows. Good dog!
Lucas
would have been adopted a dozen times over were it not for his separation
anxiety. We know firsthand that this is an issue that can be worked through.
We've seen it happen and can offer lots of counsel and support. But it is a
process that takes time, an accommodating schedule and, above all, a patient and
dedicated human determined not to leave an amazing lab like Lucas
stranded.
Boone
There
was nothing remarkable about Boone's arrival at STAF. One day he was part of a
family. The next day, not. His owner got a new job and relocated … five-year-old
Boone no longer fit into her life. Sadly, it's a common
story.
But
Boone is anything but a common dog. As far as we're concerned he's darn near
perfect, with those soulful brown eyes and big ol' ears that beg to be rubbed.
He is quite the love, but not in an overbearing way. Outside he'll sit at your
feet and lean up against you, just to be sure you're there. He also enjoys an
occasional flip of the tennis ball and even brings it back! He's equally
terrific company for another dog. He has several canine friends at the shelter
and plays well with all of them. Back in his run, he curls up into an adorable
red velvet doughnut and waits patiently for his next outing or snuggle with a
favorite volunteer.
Boone's
list of loves includes car rides, soft beds and long walks. He walks with his
head up very high, with a pride that resonates all the way up the leash to the
human on the other end. He is housebroken and (provided you do your part by
taking him on those aforementioned walks) is happy to take long naps or chew on
bones for hours. He reminds us of those classic hounds in films that keep watch
on the front porch all day. He is a good, good dog … sweet as peach
pie!
Tacoma
Tacoma
and his littermates were born in a junked truck bed liner in the summer of 2011.
Mom (a basset mix) and pups came to STAF and found homes right away. Six months
later Tacoma was returned … "damaged goods."
During
those formative months, Tacoma spent much of his time locked in his crate. His
former home took him to training classes in which the instructor lifted him off
the floor, literally hanging him by his leash to teach submission. The only
lesson Tacoma took away is that people hurt, leaving him to this day with a
mistrust of strangers.
Tacoma
goes on regular home visits with his favorite volunteer. He has excellent
house-manners and is completely housebroken. While he enjoys walks and is very
well-behaved on lead, he is more or less a lug around the house, lounging 80% of
the time. When he does have an energy spurt, he loves to play with the female
dog in the house. In warmer weather, he has the best of fun splashing in the
kiddie pool and trying to entice other dogs to do the
same.
Tacoma
is all bark in the beginning, but once he is comfortable with you, you will
discover an über lovebug of a dog. One who craves loads of belly rubs and is
freakishly perceptive when it comes to understanding commands and interpreting
what someone expects from him. He is incredibly responsive to positive training
methods and will thrive with structure, routine, and a calm and confident
leader. He is not a natural alpha, but will revert to that role if it's lacking
in his "pack." Dog siblings (preferably female) would be a big
plus.
Because
of his stunning good looks, Tacoma gets lots of attention at adoption time … but
the right home will understand that the way to this dog's heart is mutual
respect. Give him time to trust you, treat him with a firm, fair hand, and he
will become your true mutt-mate.
Little
Edie
If
you like short and sweet, meet our resident love sponge. Little Edie is happiest
when she is being snuggled, dressed up and carried around. She would no doubt
take right to one of those little pooch-purses for accompanying her human out on
errands.
This
girl is off-the-charts adorable, from ears that have a mind of their own, to a
shake that starts at her head and works its way down to her tail, to her ability
to self-entertain … Give her a treat and she'll toss it up and chase it around
for a while before finally gobbling it down.
She
is a classic little beauty who would love to follow someone around all day just
to see what they're doing, grab some cat naps in the sun, and cuddles in the
evening. In the relatively short time she's been at the shelter, she is very
attentive and responds well to commands.
Some
folks are surprised to learn that Little Edie came to us from a high-kill county
shelter. (Yes, even cute little dogs are euthanized.) We were told that her
owner could no longer care for her due to financial and health reasons.
Thankfully Little Edie caught a one-way ticket out of that big, scary place just
in the nick of time. Now she's waiting to put the "merry little" into some lucky
family's Christmas.
Sydney
Less
than a year old, Sydney is the youngest of our "12 Dogs." She was found during a
rainstorm … a soggy little ragamuffin playing dodge with traffic in an
intersection. Even after years of seeing dogs treated like disposables, we are
still surprised every time a dog like this goes unclaimed. She had obviously
belonged somewhere in the not-so-distant past. Yet no one came looking. So,
after a stint in a foster home, Sydney came to the
shelter.
True
to the aussie in her, she is one smart and energetic cookie, which makes the
confinement and limited exercise of a shelter particularly hard on her. It's
like locking a 7-year-old in a closet. We do what we can to keep her happy and
sane. Sydney attends obedience class (thanks to our dear friend and wonderful
trainer Lydia McCarthy!) and doggy day care (thanks to Red Dog!). But what this
bright and spirited adolescent really needs is to get back into a home ASAP
where she can get the daily workout (both physical and mental) she needs to grow
into a well-mannered young lady. At the moment she's more like a beautiful,
bubbly, but slightly spoiled cheerleader. Another dog with a similar
energy-level and play style would be icing on the cake.
Sydney
is great in the car. She enjoys a good game of fetch with volunteers, and can
also entertain herself with a stick. In the warmer weather she likes to play in
water. And at the end of the day loves to snuggle. Got sheep? You are Sydney's
dream home! Got little kids? Probably not such a great fit as Sydney would have
great fun herding them, too!
Boston
We're
hoping that the same year that has brought the city of Boston a World Series
Championship will also bring our Boston (STAF dog and loverlump) a big win of
his own. It would the perfect ending to a year that started as anything
but.
Boston
was our first arrival of 2013. He'd been found as an emaciated stray, roaming a
neighborhood for several days before a kind-hearted soul took him to the local
vet to await rescue. His size, age (5 at the time), and—adding insult to
injury—a positive heartworm reading were three strikes against him. But it just
so happens we at STAF have a weakness for the big boys with soulful eyes and sad
stories to tell. So to STAF he came. And he's been a volunteer favorite ever
since.
A 6
½-year-old St. Bernard mixed with something lanky-legged, Boston is sweet,
affectionate, and an all-around nice guy. He is such a gentleman, waiting
patiently for his turn to go out, and walking leisurely with excellent manners
and great dignity. He's a lady's man, preferring the company of female
dogs.
Boston's
bumper sticker would read, "I brake for belly rubs." Other loves include toys,
tennis balls, car rides and a good brushing. Boston has been a dream dog on
overnight visits with volunteers. Sound like your kind of guy? Hurry up and
visit! Boston is hoping to ring in the new year with a family of his own. (If
you are a Yankee fan, you reserve the right to rename.)
Bandit
Bandit
was only a year old when his family left him to die in an overfilled,
underfunded rural shelter. He didn't have long to wait … owner-surrenders are
the first to be euthanized. Fortunately for Bandit (and for his future
home-to-be), he pulled a get-out-of-jail-alive card and came to our
shelter—filthy, bone-thin and scared. Always suckers for the shy dogs (OK,
any dog), we volunteers instantly fell for those puppy dog eyes and
classic hound dog ways.
That
was a year and a half ago. (Over ten in dog years!) Since then, Bandit has said
hello and goodbye to many canine playmates who have done their time and moved on
to families of their own. If adopters were to see the fun-loving Bandit that we
know and love, he would already be off making some lucky family's life a better
place. But he's like Michigan J. Frog, that Vaudevillian amphibian of Looney
Tunes fame who breaks into incredible feats of singing and dancing for a select
audience—but in front of anyone else … nothing.
The
highlight of Bandit's week is his weekend walk. He does a happy dance in his run
when he sees his "date" arrive. Then it's a car ride (woo hoo!) to the
park to sniff around and soak in the fresh air. At times like these, his eyes
light up like Christmas trees and many contend that he has the best smile in the
shelter. (So don't let the verge-of-tears expression in his photo fool
you!)
One
of our go-to playmates for pairing with other dogs, Bandit would be a fabulous
choice for a family looking to add to their pack. He just needs a home willing
to put in a little extra time to get over his initial shyness. We promise you
it's worth it to see this guy sing and dance.
Tanner
Combine
the lovability of a teddy bear and the strength of an ox, and you've got Tanner.
His big, buoyant personality fills the room when we show him at adoption time.
He bursts through the door with his crazy wiggle-butt and immediately starts
working the crowd, giving sloppy, enthusiastic kisses to all who are willing.
(And then some.) He will proudly show off his basic obedience skills, including
one awesome shake. As you can see from his photo, he is also a great sport when
it comes to things like wearing fluffy white beards.
Judging
by his bubbly nature, you'd never guess the hard-knock life this guy has had:
found as a stray five years ago, adopted into a home only to be abandoned again
a few years later when his owner came upon hard times … and in a kennel
situation ever since. Being very people-oriented dogs, bully breeds like Tanner
generally deteriorate rapidly in the stress of a shelter setting. Thanks to the
official Tan-Man Fan Club that gets him out on regular jogs and outings, Tanner
is hanging in … but we can see the strain starting to wear. He is wound a little
tight at the shelter and visibly sad when his human friends aren't
near.
On
his occasional sleepovers with volunteers, though, he is happy and relaxed. He
is housebroken, gravitates toward the couch, and—provided he gets sufficient
exercise (a good 30-40 minute walk a day should do)—can be trusted to have free
reign without being destructive. Tanner likes the simpler things in life ... a
Kong filled with peanut butter, belly rubs, a game of fetch, a lap to curl up
on. ("What do you mean 'too big?' I'm a perfect fit. See? Now shut up and
give me a kiss!")
Although
he lived with another dog (as well as two cats) in his previous home, Tanner can
be unpredictable around other dogs and may be happiest as a family's
one-and-only. If you like the sound of a walk-a-day, hang out on the couch,
soul-mate kind of dog, pucker up and come meet Tanner!
We don't usually post
dogs at other rescues because we have our own doggies who are looking for
forever homes, but the picture of this guy touched our heart and we thought he
could use the help of our huge fan base to find his forever home. This is Digby
and he's been at Save the Animals Foundation (STAF) for 3 years. Digby's only
wish this Christmas is an honest-to-goodness, official family of his very own.
Had a STAF volunteer not found him in the park 3 years ago, he would have died from the parvo, the mange and all those nasty
fleas that were eating him alive. He's permanently scarred but still so
beautiful. His health is now in check, thanks to the help of a great holistic
vet. He's on a special diet because of allergies - can't have poultry, potatoes
and other veggies—but that's OK because he loves lamb and rice. Digby is four
years old and a sweet boy. STAF says he's good with other dogs, cats, and kids.
We don't know any more about him than this - you will have to contact STAF for
details. http://www.12dogs.org/?id=digby We hope Digby gets his
Christmas wish!
Digby
Dear
Santa,
It's me
again—Digby. I'm sorry to keep asking year after year, but all I want for
Christmas is an honest-to-goodness, official family of my very own. Is there
anyone out there who could look past my scarred face and snaggletooth and love
ME? I know it's a lot to ask. But I believe in miracles... otherwise I wouldn't
be alive today. Had a STAF volunteer not found me in the park that day, I would
have died from the parvo, the mange and all those nasty fleas that were eating
me alive. Three Christmases have come and gone since then and my health is now
in check, thanks to the help of a great holistic vet. I'm on a diet because of
my allergies. Can't have poultry, potatoes and other veggies—but that's OK
because I loves
me my lamb and rice!
To refresh your
memory, Santa, I'm four years old and I've been told I'm pretty sweet. Humans
(including the little kind), other dogs, cats … I love them all. I promise to be
a good dog if I could just have a spot in the sun, a place to watch the world go
by, and maybe an occasional ride in the car.
I don’t mean to
be greedy, Santa. I really am *so grateful* to be alive, to have a safe place to
sleep and regular meals. But more than anything I want to belong somewhere. Forever.
With someone who can't imagine life without me.
Your
friend,
Digby
SEE PICTURES OF ALL THE DOGS ON FACEBOOK 8 Need Homes According to Latest Post.
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152090587471133.1073741831.77554446132&type=1
https://www.facebook.com/SaveTheAnimalsFoundation
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