NEDERLAND — “I’d really like to adopt a dog,” I heard her say.
“So what’s stopping you?” was my only thought. Maybe the vet costs, or housing constraints? Maybe it is just not the right time...or too many other concerns?
“Maybe someday,” she said, walking away.
It made me wonder. Beyond those working in shelters and rescues, how many animal lovers are aware of the crisis in animal welfare? Does anyone with a compassionate heart understand how swollen our local shelters are? That in the Red States, healthy, adoptable, often young (and very often, senior) dogs are losing their precious lives?
Moreover, are people aware of how they can help? Or of the resources available when they adopt a dog?
Welcome to the Someday Dogs at the Longmont Humane Society. Those eager, adoptable, loving canine babes waiting for Someday....someday, my time will come. Someday, the family will stop at my kennel, pull my card and ask to meet me. Someday, I will get to jump into a new family car—one only slightly reminiscent of the one I once rode in when I was told, “So sorry, it’s not you, it’s me. Someday, you’ll get a new home or a new family. Maybe you’ll forget all about me….”
Presenting the Someday Dogs waiting, not for weeks, but for months, for their chance to love again:
Henry is a young, energetic, athletic big boy eager to run alongside you on a trail or hike up to Indian Peaks Wilderness. His special quirk? He prefers the company of humans to other dogs and cats. Can you relate? Find Henry at bit.ly/4c1jWgU.
Peace is another young, energetic, big boy, who reminds you of a Southern Black Mouth Cur I once called my own. His special quirk? He prefers a feline-free existence, but other dogs are okay. Did you see his feature in last week’s Mountain-Ear issue? Find Peace at bit.ly/4ghJo2Y.
Maggie is a young Belgian Malinois gal, who, like Henry, prefers the company of humans to other dogs and cats. Are you a dogless dog-lover longing for a big sweet furry companion? Maybe you could consider fostering her, let the shelter help with the cost of care, until you get past your commitment issues? Find Maggie at bit.ly/46cCtDv.
Buddy is another young Shepherd mix, whose appearance is as reminiscent of your lonely uncle as his soul is longing to leave. His special propensity: Prefers the company of humans to other dogs and cats. Who can have more than one anyhow? Find Buddy at bit.ly/4wChxAs.
Ready to love again? Come meet Koni. She is a young and fast learner who hasn’t forgotten how to love. Her quirk? You guessed it—she’s not into the company of other dogs or cats, but prefers the company of humans. Take a look at Koni at bit.ly/4x5dfCS.
How could any animal lover walk past the kennel occupied by Waffles. This young guy is just waiting for a more mature environment to entertain you. Even more permissive when it comes to other dogs or cats—he’s okay, folks. Learn more about Waffles at bit.ly/4g8Z5uu.
Lastly, can you consider meeting Ozzy? He is a medium-size guy who wasn’t in the same room when God was handing out long legs. His quirk? He prefers the company of other dogs, but really wants the kitty to stay outside. Learn more about Ozzy at bit.ly/4zvpGtk.
Next week, let’s take a walk around the adoption corner at the Longmont Humane Society in order to become acquainted with the rest of the long-term stays. For now, have a look at what resources the shelter offers for fostering or adopting:
Emergency resources longmonthumane.org/services/emergency-resources in special circumstances, such as housing disruptions or financial need. A Public Pet Pantry is available for qualified applicants, offering food, collars, leashes, bedding and that much more for canines in need.
Is despair over the rising cost of veterinary care holding you back? The Longmont Humane Society Veterinary Clinic offers affordable care for your newly-adopted furry friend longmonthumane.org/services/well-pet-clinic. From wellness exams to vaccines to heartworm tests to microchips to spay/neuter surgeries, the shelter offers dental and other surgical services.
Filled with longing for one of these canine companions, but now’s not a good time to adopt? Consider fostering: longmonthumane.org/programs/foster-program. Approved applicants receive the food and supplies, medical care, and support needed for their foster. Not sure how to walk Henry around your neighborhood? They offer training and behavior guidance, and round-the-clock support for emergencies.
The Someday Dogs at the Longmont Humane Society have all been patiently waiting for that day when their lives go beyond the walls of their kennel or the limitations of walks that are stuck at the two-per-day provided by compassionate volunteers.
Some have a preference for the way they can best live, as with any one of us humans. They deserve an opportunity to show you their gratitude and best selves. Doing so is not only an expression of love, selflessness, and caring, but it contributes to sustaining a healthier, more compassionate, and kinder community.