Hello! Since coming home with us in December, West has won over the hearts of everyone who has met him! He loves to lay in the sun, cuddle with anyone who will sit still, and play with his toys (especially his treat ball and squeaky duck). Though West may look intimidating, he has such a gentle and loving spirit. West has made lots of friends with other dogs, and gets lots of compliments for being so well-behaved! West has learned to have better manners when greeting people, and has added "roll over" to his bag of tricks. We are so glad to be able to give a senior dog a second chance at life. West is one awesome dude! Thanks SFTS! --John, Gillian, and West.
We adopted Zulu, whom we renamed Truffle for his black-and-white coat (it's a food thing) on 12 May 2007. He was so tiny and his brother was just as cute. Truff is a character! He has this adorable habit of lifting his back leg when he's feeling coy and flirtacious (not in a spraying or naughty way). An easier-maintenance cat there never was - he eats whatever is put in front of him and adores his Drinkwell fountain, often to the point of jumping right in and taking his "shower". He shares his time with another shelter cat, Petrus, and loves to go outside with her and "Daddy Cat", although he's not as brave as she is and neither cat is allowed to free-roam. Daddy's got them both used to a leash and the neighbors get a big kick out of that. --Mike and KT
Hi everyone at Shelter from the Storm, We just wanted to send you a quick update on Maggie Sue. It's hard to believe it's been over a month since we adopted her! Maggie Sue has settled in very nicely, and we feel very lucky to have her in our lives. I attached a picture of her lounging on the floor. She enjoys several walks a day and spends most of her days snoozing around the house...though she's always ready to play fetch at a moment's notice. Thank you for all that you do. We absolutely adore Maggie Sue! Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving holiday! --Jen M. and Tim B.

We are enrolled in puppy training class beginning June 1st and are looking forward to learning some good basics as well as manners. Indy is very smart, and I am confident he will be at the top of his class! We are so happy that we have found each other, and sincerely thank you for the excellent care you provided until Indy found his way to us. Blessings --Lisa Q.
Lina says there's no way she is coming back to SFTS. Thank you to your rescue not only for Lottie but all you do for the animals. Best, Deb
You will be glad to know that Bones is very happy with us. She adjusted quickly, made friends with the other cats, and for a few weeks she seemed almost dazed, like "I can't believe I live here with all these nice folks!" Now she is part of our family and we couldn't get along without her. Watching her go from somewhat shy and tentative to a confident, playful, and happy - even blissful - little cat has been one of the most rewarding experiences we have had. I know you will be pleased, too, learning that her troubled life has resulted in a happy ending for Bones. Sincerely, Liz and Matt

My Diamond in the "Ruff," Zoey, is a dream dog. Zoey learns fast, hardly barks, and never bites. She loves to cuddle, but she also loves to chase you down the sidewalk. She is SO loyal that she doesn't even need a leash. She just looks at you with her puppy smile and follows you like a duckling (although if we go a greater distance or an unfamiliar way, she does wear a leash). Poor Zoey, then Amanda, never knew the good life. Her previous owners, who took advantage of her, never knew how beautiful her little soul was or how beautiful she would become on the outside too. With a good diet, exercise, grooming, and lots of love, Zoey has blossomed into a beautiful, happy Bichon. How could anyone not want her now?! I know my story is not the most spectacular, heroic story but I just want to tell people to look past the mangy, sometimes ugly, look of shelter dogs (and animals) and open up their hearts to what might be. Inside that tangled mess might be the world's greatest and perfect pet. Mine turned out to be perfect for me (and my husband too)! --Kristi and Justin R.
I just wanted to let you know that Rigel (Amerigo of the Six Explorers) is doing great. When he's not at work with me he's waiting to go run at the park. Thank you so much! --Christina
Gaston is a doing great in his new home! His favorite time of day is evening playtime when we dash around the house with wand toys. When he isn't playing or chasing flies, Gaston enjoys sleeping, cuddling under blankets or sweaters, and talking to us (we nicknamed him "Sir Meows-a-lot"). He's also learning to explore the great outdoors on his purple harness. I'm very happy to have him in my life! Best, Lara

Here is a picture of Freyja (formerly Misty) hanging out with the kids. As you can see she has already calmed down and learned manners. When I met her I sensed a smart, sweet spirit and that's exactly what she is. Even though you said she was not potty trained she has never had an "accident" in the house. She's having a great time playing at the dog park and puppy playgroup. She is dearly loved and has filled a hole left from the lose of our beloved "Rosie". Thank you for showing her kindness and loving her first. --Jeanine
Hello from Maggie! I've adjusted quickly to being queen of the castle here. I worked hard on housetraining and got used to getting baths and having my teeth brushed. I have a nice dog bed, but I love snuggling with my owners on the couch even more. I learned to sit, lay down, roll over, and even go to bed by myself at night--my owners just say, "It's time for my bed" and I run off to my kennel. I watch TV and go on walks, and I'm working on socializing at the dog parks in town...I get overwhelmed by the big dogs, but I love to play chase and bark! My owners couldn't be happier that they found the perfect dog on their first outing to the shelter, and love coming home to me every day. Life is so much better with me around! --Thanks from Aaron F. & Kristin P.!
I had to send you this picture. Minuet (we call her Fluff) and Louie (sfts 2006) are inseparable. We did not pose this pic. Pumpkin (Mezzie sfts 2007) plays right along with them but is just starting to snuggle with them. They are all doing great! We are so happy to have Louie, Pumpkin and Fluff.-- Sue W.