The rescue dogs at Old Dominion Humane Society (ODHS) are saved from many different situations—mistreatment, hoarding and neglect, as well as taken from high-kill shelters. It’s estimated that dogs spend 12.5 weeks waiting to get adopted, and those that stay for 48 weeks or longer are classified as “less-adoptable,” according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. ODHS helps rescues that are three-legged, blind, deaf, injuredand older to get adopted into caring homes.
The nonprofit, no-kill rescue is a safe haven for these rescues that receive examinations by veterinarians, vaccinations, medical attention (if necessary) and healthy diets. They’re cared for by foster families and volunteers who give them attention and exercise with walks and hikes.
“We’ve saved rescues from so many situations—some of them are older, tripods, blind or losing their sight,” said Chrissy Blake, ODHS founder. “These rescues are as loving, playful and happy as other dogs, and they need that one individual who can see beyond the disability or age. Fortunately, we’ve had people who want to care for these dogs and realize they aren’t that different from otherdogs. They’re loyal companions and grateful for the chance at being part of a family.”
When Elton was brought to ODHS last year, it seemed the odds were against him when it came to getting adopted. When he exited his crate, volunteers saw that half his furwas missing because of an allergy. He was also missing a leg. Elton, with big eyes and a button nose, ran around the ODHS property, licked the volunteers’ hands and wagged his tail in excitement. After a few weeks of a healthy diet and baths with medicated shampoo, his fur grew back. Not much later, his personality won the hearts of a family that adopted him.
Blind Dogs
Bocelli, a cream-colored rescue dog, was blind. When a foster spent a few weeks with him, she said he had the sweetest personality and just needed a little guidance around the house. As she considered adopting him or “fostering failing,” a family had put in an application, met him and brought Bocelli home.
Senior Dogs
Ten-year-old Glory has a double challenge—besides being an older dog, she has some vision issues and can be startled by sudden movements. She’s able to overcome those odds with a personality that’s second to none. Glory is good with cats, dogs and kids, remaining calm and rarely barking. She’s happy to accompany her fosters anywhere and is a dignified car rider. She seems to love everyone she meets, adores attention and gently rests her head on her human for a cuddle.
Tripod Dogs
Three-legged dogs or “tripods” are thought to be less-adoptable because they seem like a challenge. It’s a misconception, because rescue dogs with three legs have already had a leg amputated and rehabilitated, and they don’t need extra veterinary care, according to PetMD. They can exercise and play like other dogs, and there’s usually no reason to modify the home.
Anthem, a pocket-sized rescue weighing only 15 pounds, gets around just like her four-legged friends. A sweet, gentle and quiet pup, she likes other dogs for companionship and has great potty manners. At seven-years-old, she’s a happy dog with a big heart who’s waiting for a chance at being adopted.
Deaf Dogs
Patriot, a seven-year-old, happy boy, gives lots of kisses and loves belly rubs and cuddles. Just 11 pounds, his house manners are excellent, he rides well in the car and is good with other dogs. While he sounds like the perfect dog, he’s overcoming two obstacles in getting adopted. He’s deaf and had “cherry eye” surgery a few months ago. (“Cherry eye” is when the tear gland in the third eyelid prolapses or pops out, causing swelling, inflammation and irritation.). Patriot doesn’t let these challenges get in the way, as he enjoys being with people and is able to do anything other dogs do.
Black Dogs
Black dogs have the lowest adoption and highest euthanasia rates than any color dog in shelters and rescues, according to DogingtonPost.com. They spend four times longer waiting to be adopted compared to otherrescues. Many people are superstitious when it comes to black dogs, and they don’t stand out as much as lighter-colored animals.
Sinatra, a rescue with a shiny, black coat, is nearly a year old. While he’s seen fellow rescues get adopted, he hasn’t been chosen yet. He loves playing with other dogs and humans and is a great cuddler. Sinatra is extremely smart, learning commands like “sit” and “drop it,” and he’s quiet in his crate, which he keeps impeccably clean.
There are many ways to recognize “Adopt a Less-Adoptable Pet Week,” including:
• Volunteer at ODHS and spend time with less-adoptable dogs.
• Donate monetarily or with items (food, blankets, toys)needed to help the rescues.
• Share information about less-adoptable pets on social media.
• Fill out an application, come to an adoption event at ODHS and meet a less-adoptable dog.
Adopting these types of dogs will guarantee companionship and love in return for a forever home. Most of the dogs in this story are available for adoption and can’t wait to meet their families. Visit www.olddominionhumanesociety.org and click on the tab “Our Dogs” to learn more about the dogs and view pictures.
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