Yes, don’t they look so happy just coming out of a shelter? Wondering what is going on now, where am I going this time and are we there yet? Most dogs coming out are very confused, not trusting anyone and not considering people as their friends. Not surprising as the way they are treated at some shelters, not all, but some. I start out with kind words, some treats and a little hug, if time permits. Some will bark as we head down the road, others are just resigned to moving again; knowing there is nothing they can do and I know they feel so helpless. But I also know that this is the first in a long series of steps to get them to a rescue to be adopted. They don’t know that yet, but I do. That’s why when I see follow-up photos taken sometimes weeks down the road, they don’t even look like the same dogs. That’s how much they will have changed. It’s all about love and making them feel part of a family again. One dog at a time.

Believe it or not, this pup was labeled aggressive by the shelter, and was a rescue only pull. Right. All this guy wanted was some attention and somebody to be with. It was his last day also, aren’t they all. Just can’t kill ’em fast enough I guess. Nothing in the world wrong with this dog other than a first time bad owner. But that’s not unusual either. That’s why I keep a stuffed dog in my van for folks who can’t or don’t want to deal with a real dog. Yes they have issues; but who doesn’t? Yes they make mistakes; who doesn’t? And yes they are not perfect; but who is? That’s what the stuffed dog is for. Maybe I should carry more than one.