The rains in May

  It certainly seems like the rainy weather has led to a surge in dogs, cats, puppies and kittens.  With our expansion into the Berryville facility formerly used by Go East Young Dog, the crest of incoming dogs has not stopped.  Both the BV facility and the Eureka Springs facility are at capacity, and the calls from the community about animals needing space have not stopped.  If anyone reading this has friends looking for a new pet, or can spread the word to friends and family, please stop by!
  Construction of a pad for the new expansion building at the Eureka facility started this past week, so it's been slightly chaotic here.  But, it is exciting to think about the possibilities.

  One of our shelter goals this year is to try and find homes for some of our long term dog residents.  We have a pair of "bonded pairs"--big dogs who need to stay together for their physical and mental well-being.  Let me introduce you.
  The first pair are brothers--Barney & Loki.  Yes, they are litter mates. 

  Barney and Loki are 3 years old, and they've never been apart.  They are quite playful now, although when they first got to Good Shepherd, they were extremely fearful and distrustful of people.  That has changed thanks to the efforts of some great dog techs and volunteers.  They're still big, still goofy, and still bark a lot, but once they know you have treats, they come running.  We've learned that they also get along well with other big dogs. 

  Our next "bonded pair" are sisters--Shadow and  Shelby, two black lab mixes.  The girls love to play with Barney & Loki in our big dog pen. 

These adorable dogs are 7 1/2 years old, and of course, they've been together their whole life.  Shadow has seizures, but she is well-controlled on a simple medication, and it hasn't seemed to affect her ability to play or socialize with other dogs. 

   Staff and volunteers at the shelter love these dogs and try to treat them like the wonderful pets they are--or like our own pets.  But the sad part is that these two pair of dogs have been waiting for a loving family for two years.  Wouldn't it be wonderful for them to find a permanent family?  These dogs have lots of love and loyalty to give to the right family.  Won't you please help share their stories and photos, and help our pairs find a new summer home?
 
  As exhausting as the work at the shelter can be, it's the love and appreciation we get from the animals each day that keeps us coming back.  Goofy big dogs barking, puppy breath, baby kittens whose eyes aren't open but who clutch tight to the baby bottle as we feed them, the dogs who just lean into you for comfort and security, and the adult cats who act so indifferent but really just want catnip--that kind of love can't be bought, nor can it be manufactured. 
  If you haven't been to the shelter in the past few years, come back and visit with our adoptable pets.  The staff can share many more wonderful stories about our pets.   See you soon!