Those following the saga of dog adoption were amazed at the trip to Westside German Shepherd Rescue that resulted in 6 days in Winnemucca. The trip didn’t result in an adoption, but it did provide for a relaxing time with lots of Planet Coaster.
A few weeks later we found an amazing dog at a local rescue. We were chatting with the trainer when our water pump stopped working. Needless to say, that weekend was spent fighting for water and praying that we wouldn’t need a new well. In the end, we just installed a new control box and replace the wire to the well. Yet, again, our dog adoption was deterred.
On February 7th, I sent an application to the West Valley Humane Society regarding a dog that I’d sworn I had seen for several weeks on thier website. They replied nearly immediately with a link to set an appointment. I was a bit discouraged that no one called (as the other locations had called), but I set the appointment without talking to anyone.
On Saturday, February 10th, Ian and I, along with Nym and Mary, loaded into the truck for the hour long drive to the other side of the valley. With fingers crossed, we made the trip without issue, but we did have to stop for fuel. On time!
For our meeting, we assembled in a room the same size as a dog kennel. It was clean with one wall shorter than the other. The adoption agent reviewed our application then reviewed the several pages of information regarding our future pup.
He was surrendered with his sister in December. She was adopted quickly. He was left behind. He was malnourished and quite the mess. He got a bath and 2 meals a day for several weeks before he was adopted in early January. His new family kept him for 8 days before returning him saying “he wasn’t a fit for their family”.
When he was introduced to us in the small room, I knew he would be the next Dahlstrom Dog. However, he wasn’t sure. When his handler left the room, he just barked at us. Not a violent bark, but something that sounded like, “hey. hey. don’t leave me here.” When the handler returned we asked if there was a larger room.
The conference room was much better. He was still barking, but he didn’t feel restricted and walked around a lot. He would let me give him scratches. But, you could tell he didn’t like the kennel.
We opted to introduce him to Nym first. There was lots of barking, lots of sniffing, and more barking. It didn’t seem like it was going to be too good. But, after some nose to nose sniffs, we determined that we need to take this outside.
Revelation! As soon as we were out the door, Hunter and Nym were walking side by side. The sniffs were cordial. This WILL work. We walked for about 5 minutes, then decided to bring Mary into the mix. Woo hoo. One sniff, one snarl, and everyone was happily walking around minding their own business.
The last test. How will all three dogs behave in the truck for the ride home. Well, much to our surprise, Hunter jumped into the back seat, looked around, and sat down. Nym was next to him, and they seemed like they were friends forever.
Hunter has already taken the Luke position of sticking his right up on my shoulder while I’m driving. This match is working well.
The big dog seems to fit right into the house. He spent a bit of time pacing around to ensure he knew where all of the toys were hiding. The handler said he might have a bit of possession issues, but we’re noting they aren’t too bad.
It didn’t take long before Hunter had relaxed and found a few comfortable places.
A happy ending!!! 🐶💕
Fantastic story! He is beautiful! Congratulations to the family.
Hunter chose a great family for his forever home. Congratulations to everyone.