Happy Homes

	Happy Homes

	We love to hear about the pets people have adopted from our shelter:


	Onyx learned early on that it was fun to climb the ferret cage and bat at the ferrets' toys from the top. As you can see, Cuddles and Ricochet don't seem to mind much. You can also see the ferrets climbing around in our bookcase! We adopted all three pets from the shelter and love them very much. -Terry

	We adopted Doozie in August 2007. She is a beautiful two year old, dilute calico cat. We saw how happy she was when our son brought his cat with him from Seattle for a visit, so we decided she needed a pal. Lulu was in our vet's waiting room, and we found out she was from Animal Services, so we went to the shelter and adopted her, too. She's bigger than Doozie but about the same age. Being indoor-only cats, we thought it was good to have two and apparently, they agree. As you can see, they get along great. They have different personalities, and they occasionally have a short spat, but most of the time they get along wonderfully and are definitely not boring to live with. -Gabi and Alec Clayton

		This is Sally - Selkie's mom (see Selkie near the bottom of this page). She was adopted 09/04/2001. Sally (and of course Selkie and her sisters and brothers) were fostered by Earl and Toni Gorss, volunteers for Animal Services, back in the fall of 2001. Because she previously had such a hard life, I try very hard to spoil her (though I wish I hadn't given up my queen size bed). Everyone in the neighborhood knows her and she knows every house where she might be able to charm a cookie from its owner. She's adjusted well to her "better" life and I've adjusted to sleeping on the couch. She's so good, it's sometimes hard to believe she's not human. Thank you for the wonderful job you do. -Jodi & Sally

	We thought you’d enjoy a recent picture of our kitty, Lucky, that you helped our daughters rescue from the Tumwater School area. He’s sunning himself under the umbrella in the picture. He’s doing fine, but we’re going to need to put him on a diet since he’s currently 14 pounds! - The Contris Family

		Thank you for helping us add such a spectacular member to our family. My sons and I visited your shelter several times on the lookout for a golden retriever. We were patient and boy did it pay off! Roxy has been such a blessing to us and has brought so many smiles, laughs and good times. We love our Roxy so tremendously, we can't even remember what life was like without her. Thanks again for all that you do and most of all, what you have done for us! - The Hannah Family

	Sometime in early 1993, we adopted our little Amos from your facility. He just passed away on 11/27/07. He would have been 15 years old in January of 2008. We just wanted you to know that your efforts made a difference for Amos. He had a long, happy life with a family who loved him. We are going to miss him. Thank you for providing a safety net for animals that otherwise might not be so lucky. Keep up the good work. - Karen Johns

		A very sad goodbye... Roxy was adopted this year, a little older and worse for wear, but her new family loved her and took a chance on her anyway. Sadly, Roxy's health declined, and in December, she suffered liver and renal failure. We send our deepest condolences to her family, and thank them for making Roxy's last months happy, comfortable and full of love.
	All three of these sweet little monsters came from the shelter. Cosmo (white and yellow) is the oldest and joined the family in 2004. Then Chino Chingon (the cat) came Jan 2007. The most recent (and naughtiest) addition is Cleo, adopted as a puppy in Oct 2007. Thanks for helping them come into our lives. - The Fravalos Family

	We got the girl on the right (Gracie, as in Gray Cat) in January 2007, when there were almost no kittens to be had. The little guy on the left (CowBoy) came into our lives in July 2007. At first we wondered if they'd get along, but as you can see, it's hard to tell where one ends and the other begins. They love each other and we love them both. Thanks for providing us with such a fine family. Melinda & John, Olympia.

		Pam and Keith Phillips with their cat, Studley, who was adopted from Animal Services in May of 2006. Studley is now a “therapy cat” in the Providence Animal-Assisted Activities and Therapy program at St. Peter Hospital. He is the hospital’s first therapy cat. Way to go, Studley!

	In January 2006, we adopted a 2 yr old German Wirehaired Pointer from you--it was love at first sight. We always wanted a GWP and this was a wonderful opportunity. We named him Decker and he quickly became part of our family of 3 cats. He is now being shown in AKC junior showmanship and obedience and is being used by two high school 4H kids. He loves to hunt ducks and swim in his life jacket for hours at a time. Thanks for all you do for our community and the pets that are a part of it. -Jennifer Sagerser

		I adopted Shiimsa in September of 2005. He was just a tiny kitten who didn't want to leave my shirt. He has become an integral part of my life. I'm so happy he has turned into a big, happy, healthy cat. I really appreciate the care he got before I took my little guy home. The picture is of him trying to be included in a game of Scrabble last Christmas. -Adriana

	We adopted these siblings Sept 06 when they were just 8 weeks old. They continue to bring us so much joy. Both are indoor kitties and (as you can see) just adore sleeping and lounging. Bonnie & Clyde let us know they want attention by rolling over on their backs, showing us their big bellies and letting their paws dangle in the air--which as you can imagine is super cute. They also love playing together and chasing each other around the house, running behind our heads on the couch and then jumping up onto the big cat tree we got for them! Thank you so much for helping us find our kitties and for all the work you do! -Maria, Evan, Bonnie & Clyde

		Lucky was found thin, dehydrated and with a broken rear leg by a Tumwater High School student. A teacher kept the cat in a classroom until Animal Services could pick him up. Everyone who had contact with the cat thought he was a wonderful being. We used donated funds and determined that the best course of treatment for the broken leg was amputation because the break was older and fractured in numerous places and probably wouldn't heal correctly. The student's family visited Lucky at the shelter throughout his ordeal. He now lives with them and their other two cats and is very happy. He would have died without the intervention of the students and their care and compassion for this little guy.

	I had been going to the shelter for a few weeks looking for a hunting dog for my husband and came across Auggie, a lab/retriever mix. He was only 10 months old, skinny (about 35 lbs.) and had a leg that shook like he had nerve damage. He looked at me and I looked at him and it was love at first sight. He came home to Matilda the lab, and 2 cats, Apollo and Katmandu. I thought for sure that there would be hissing and spitting and just a complete uproar with the cats. Auggie fit in like he had lived with us forever--he and Katmandu hit it off like old friends. They sleep, play and sometimes eat together. Auggie and I are pretty much inseparable, except when I go to work. He is such a sweet dog! Auggie has been with me for about a year, weighs 80lbs. and is healthy, happy and rambunctious.I feel fortunate to be able to adopt him.

		Skitter passed away in August 2007. We extend our condolences to his family and friends. I want to thank you for helping me find the BEST DOG IN THE WORLD....I got him in 1998. His name is Skitter or Skid man. He is a Lab/Newfoundland mix. Skitter was my 4-H dog for 6 years. At my first dog show I won Grand champion! He is the reason I want to be in a lot more shows, even though I retired him from 4-H. He is my best friend in the whole world and I wanted to thank you for my baby boy Skid man! Thanks, The Swearingen Family

	We adopted Steve in November 2006. He is a black lab puppy who has made life so great. My husband and I have read all of the books on how to train him to be an obedient and happy dog. He learns incredibly fast! We feel so lucky. The Dorlands

	We got Autumn in 1999 and Puffy in 2001. They're both thriving and loving our new home on 5+ acres, even if they do get locked in at night because of coyotes! I hope you all have a great New Year! From James, Meagan, Dylan & Ian

		We adopted Sally Skittles from the shelter in February 2002. She had been surrendered because her family was moving away and she was 3 years old at the time. She is almost 8 now and a much beloved part of our three cats family! Thank you for helping us find her and for all the wonderful work you do on behalf of animals. Sincerely, Lee Ann

	Thanks again, Animal Services! You guys are all wonderful for doing all you do to help animals. We adopted our first dog, Daisy, on the left, earlier this year. She told us she wanted a buddy to romp around the yard with, so we came back and our 2nd dog picked us out! We named him Gus; he's on the right, and you can see he is quite at home. This was taken after only one week; Daisy let him into her special cuddle territory! They're great friends! Gus has learned all the basic commands, never had a potty accident, and been so gentle with our 3 girls! What great additions to our family. Our Best To You, Tim & Emily

		In June of 2006, my husband and I went to the shelter and found Bri waiting for us! She is about 2 years old, adjusted to our house in about 1/2 hour and now, of course, rules the house. She quickly got used to traveling with us in our motor home, which is just great. The staff and volunteers at the shelter do a great job! We are so grateful to have Bri in our lives! Jeff and Cheryl

	We adopted our kitten in October of 2006, after weeks of searching for the perfect kitty for our 3 year old son Meric, who had been anticipating a kitten for a long time. When we brought his surprise home and he opened the carrier, it was love at first sight. Our son has learned how much to fill her food bowl each night and he always reminds me to make sure she gets fresh water. He named her Pancakes because of a song he learned in preschool, and he sings it to her all the time. She has even become good friends with our Italian Greyhound, Shelby, who finally found a cat who will just lay there and let her sniff all over them. Thank you for helping Pancakes find her happy ending. Angel, Lance, Meric, Pancakes and Shelby

		We wanted to thank the Animal Shelter so much for our wonderful additions. We adopted 2 lab/rott mix puppies Sept 2006. They recently turned 3 months old. Daisy is black with white trim & is extremely spunky & energetic. Zoe is brown & black and is the most loving and mellow puppy we've ever seen. They have settled in nicely into our home and have gotten used to their feline sister. Brie was adopted in March 1998. As you can see, she is spoiled rotten and is the pack leader of the whole gang. We can't imagine our lives without these little creatures. Thanks for bringing us all together. Tracy & Rob

	We just wanted to say thank you to Animal Services for our wonderful Daisy. She has been with us for 3 months and she is a real treasure to our three girls, 7,5, and 2. It's like she was just waiting for us when we saw her at the shelter. She is now about 10 months old, is house trained, comes when called and is sooo gentle with our children! A better family dog couldn't be found! Thanks again, Tim and Emily

		I adopted Auggie Doggie last month. Auggie came to a home that already had 2 cats, and a 3 year old female lab who had lost her companion to cancer over a year ago. Auggie stepped into his new home and acted as if he had lived with us all his life. The first member of the family to greet him was Matilda our female lab. It was love at first sight. Then...came the cats. I thought that it would be the usual spitting, hissing and clawing. Fortunately, the cats didn't seem to mind the new arrival. My oldest cat, Katmandu (who is 12 years old) greeted Auggie like he was an old friend and now sleeps with Auggie in the house on a regular basis. The other cat, Apollo, just thinks that he is a big cat and bumps up against him and Auggie licks him in return. Auggie has been a great addition to our family and I wanted to thank you for having the opportunity to adopt him.

	Dear Friends, Just a note to say thank you for taking me in and finding me a great home back in August 2005. You matched me with the best person ever! She took me in right away, gave me love, food and lots of toys. I go running when she calls my name because I know I am about to get all the attention I want! I get pretty much anything I ask for…food, water, a head scratch, new toys. I am living life! Thanks for finding me a wonderful home! I owe you! -Anais

		On Good Friday 2006, my husband and daughter left the house and told me they were going to get me an Easter Gift. Oh great I thought! I'm getting a new dishwasher! Yippee... An hour or so went by and they came home, Natalie came in with some papers in her hand and behind her came Michael and my present. She is the most beautiful, loving, good natured and playful dog I could ever hope for. I didn't think I was ready for another dog; we lost our two old doggies in December last year, but my family knew better. It was love at first sight. Coffee settled in immediately. We took her shopping for toys and food, a new bed, collar and leash, and treats--lots of treats. She has met the vet and had her rabies shot. I'm so happy that I didn't get a dishwasher. Thank you for our sweet new Coffee Cake.

	Dear Folks, My name is Wishbone Kokko. This last July, you found me a very nice boy to love! Thank you for my new life. My best friend keeps me fat and busy. We have to driving jobs and travel together for hundreds of miles of fun! I earn my keep as ballast, co-pilot, guard and partner. My new name is Dibz 'cause of you folks. My name is Wishbone Dibz Kokko and you found my home, my love, my life. Thanks again for a very nice boy to love!

	My new owner, Jackie, flew all the way from Great Falls, MT to adopt me! We flew back together and I've settled in with my new friend, Bess, really well. We even have our own porch to sun ourselves on! I have lots of land to run on and I always come back when I'm called. Thank you, Jackie, for giving me a second chance and such a great home! --Prince (I'm the one reclining in the back.)

		We adopted Bandit 2 years ago. He was a shy quiet Border Collie/Aussie mix puppy who has turned into the joy of my shy son’s life. Bandit has made a dramatic impact on my son’s self-confidence and I don’t know what he would do without him. He is so smart, excels at obedience and has an amazing vocabulary. Thank you some much for bring this wonderful dog into our lives! --Carol

	Most people want kittens or young cats. In 2004, I adopted Ginger, who was a senior cat at that time. Since I was a 'young' senior, it made sense that we 'older ladies' could hang out together. Besides her 2 beds, she likes the back of the sofa best, as seen here. We have been great buddies for 2 years now and her vet says she is in great health for her age!

		Hi. My nickname is Jo-Jo," and I'm a chocolate Lab. My new mom (Donna) got me on March 9th, 2006 (she had to put their other Lab down in September 2005). My new mom takes me with her all over the place. I get a LOT of attention, especially when I show up at her workplace. There are several people there who give me extra attention, take me for a walk, and (are there any envious dogs out there to hear this?) I even get leftovers (steak pieces) when those people have a Bar-B-Q! Just call me "One Lucky Dog" (but never call me "Late for Dinner!") -- Jo-Jo (Gioca)

	Selkie joined our family about 4 years ago and has been a loved family member since. She has brought so much joy and laughter into our lives, we couldn't imagine life without her. She was brought to the shelter with her litter mates and mother after being found underneath a trailer. She looks so much like her mother, Sally, and is just gorgeous with the personality to match! Thank you so much for bringing her into our lives! She is without a doubt my best friend and is a wonderful playmate with our new kitten, Peg Legs! Forever Grateful, Rae & Family

		In July, I sadly had to send my best doggy friend to doggy heaven. At my husband's insistence, I grudgingly went to the shelter and came across a sad looking little beagle/sheltie mix. I dropped down and looked at her and she licked my hand. I took her out and she perked up. I knew I had to take her home with me. It has been two weeks and Sophie has brought such joy to our home. Daily walks, grooming, frequent car rides and lots and lots of love are making her feel secure. Sophie gets wild with excitement when we come home and comes up every night on our bed for cuddles. She has her own couch that she like to sleep on. She smiles a lot and gives kisses. We absolutely adore her…thank you for such a wonderful addition to our family. Everyone who meets her loves her. --The McDougall Family

	We adopted Meeka in 2002. I couldn't resist visiting the shelter one day and there behind the fence was a 50-pound shaking, whining, matted mess of a dog I just had to rescue. Something about her just clicked with me. After a good bath and trimming, Meekaboo came home as a gorgeous tri-color Aussie/Border mix who has been our 4-legged child ever since. Meeka has taken me through obedience training, therapy-dog training with Delta Society and even dog massage class. She’s been my faithful office assistant, happily working on her zzz’s while I type away on the computer. Meeka loves to go on Geocache hunts with us because that means she gets to ride in the truck and go for long walks. She knows all her basic obedience commands plus some fun tricks like “Spin,” “Breakdance” and “Sing.” Even though it’s only been three years, I can’t even remember what life was like without her. Meeka is such a blessing on our lives and has made our house a home. Thanks for all you do! --Tracee & Brad

	Would you like to see your adopted pet's story here? Please email a photo and brief story to our webmaster. Be sure to let us know your pet's name, when you adopted him/her from us, and whether you want your full name included in your pet's story.