Lucky and Lola, our lovely Lab-mix dogs, have found a home together. What were the chances of that? Sometimes miracles do happen. Hugo also has a home. The emptied runs filled up immediately, and we now have a full house of dogs. I asked our shelter manager, Harold, if these were nice dogs. The answer, as I expected, "Of course, they wouldn't be here looking for homes if they weren't nice dogs."

 We have a sweet, glossy-black Valley bulldog. He is male and only about eight to nine months old. Kenya is a beautiful Lab-shepherd mix, about one and a half years of age. She had a truly horrible start in life, but is responding nicely to "the good life."

 We are praying that someone will appreciate Newton, our great little beagle. He was adopted and returned because he whined. He is about three to four years of age and weighs about 35 pounds. Riley is a reddish Lab mix. He is a good-sized dog and very attractive. He is not good with all dogs. Harlem is a Lab-Rottie mix. He probably weighs 65 to 70 pounds. Miles is a purebred St. Bernard. He is very shy in spite of his size. Miles is only one and a half years of age. So much for purebred, expensive dogs not getting in trouble. Walker is a really great dog - the perfect ready-made pet. She is even good at home alone. Walker is being fostered by our assistant manager. Kojak is a favourite of the staff. He is extremely affectionate and sensitive. He seems very quick and willing to learn. Kojak is about 40 pounds and has longish fur, upright ears and a nice pointed nose. He had been running for some time, and was underweight and unkempt. Kojak was actually mistaken for a coyote. Thank heavens the right people spotted him or he probably would not have made it to SHAID. This is a high-energy, fun dog who will make somebody a great companion.

 Do come and see the dogs at SHAID. Rescuing a dog in need only adds to the pleasure of getting a new pet. You are providing a needed home - you are giving a needy animal a life.

 SHAID is now open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sundays. We hope the extended hours will make it easier for supporters and prospective owners to visit.

posted on 07/26/11