Phoebe - One Volunteer's Favorite Pooch

I first met Phoebe on a warm Saturday afternoon. As I walked up the kennel-lined aisle, she rushed up to greet me with her pink tongue hanging out of her mouth and her small, black ears flopping around as if they had minds of their own. I had never really thought about walking her since she had an orange dot (which means she’s moderately difficult), but when I saw that she had not been out for a few days, I decided to take a chance. We took a nice stroll around the loop and every now-and-then she would plop down in the shade without much warning for a short rest. I did not see why she was an orange dot until I tried to get her back into her kennel. She resisted when I pulled on her leash and even laid down, refusing to move. Eventually, I got her in with the help of some treats.

That was our very first walk together. As I walked her more, I found her to be delightful even when she was being stubborn or dog reactive. Like every dog, she has flaws, but her spontaneous personality more than makes up for them.

I love the way she looks into my eyes and the way I can feel her listening to me and trusting me. No longer do I have to use treats to get her back into her kennel or to get her to turn around during a walk. I love how we can just sit together and be content with the world around us, but most of all, I love the way we’ve bonded so strongly with one another. I hope, one day soon, Phoebe will find someone deserving of her.

- Asia

Like Father, Like Son

When I first saw Leo sitting in kennel 58, I could hardly believe my eyes-- he looked just liked my Monkey, who I adopted from the Berkeley shelter almost three years ago. Not only did Leo have similar markings, but he had that sweet, slightly goofy endearing personality that makes Monkey so lovable. In addition, Leo seems to get along well with other dogs, another quality that makes my Monkey a wonderful dog. Leo is so much like Monkey that it is probable he is Monkey's son (fathered before Monkey arrived at the shelter). I keep waiting for the lucky person who realizes how special Leo is, to walk through our shelter doors and give him the forever home he has been waiting for. They will not be disappointed, of that I am sure.

Whatever Happened to Ditty?

The first time I met Ditty was in March 2008, I really did not get to know him because he breezed in and out of our kennels. Ditty was adopted as soon as his 5 day stray hold was up. Unfortunately he was found wandering the streets several months later and brought back to BACS. His "adopter" was notified to come get him, said she would, but never showed.
This second time around at the shelter, things dramatically changed for Ditty. He did not get snatched up for adoption right away, instead during his prolonged 3 month stay, he ended up forming a bad reputation as being a feisty little guy with attitude. Ditty spent his days charming a select group of volunteers (me being one of them) while snapping at potential adopters. He needed to get out into a home soon. I put together Craigslist ads & posted him on our blog last summer) but the chances of him getting adopted were slimming down. I was approached several times by staff asking if I would consider taking him.

Last Labor Day weekend, I brought Ditty over from the shelter to give him a break and try him out with my cats.
I am happy to report his charm was in full swing with my felines. Ditty was finally home.

Life with Ditty is not without challenges but we have made great strides in the past 9 months. Recently Ditty graduated from the Sirius Courteous Canine dog training series. He has fears but we are working through them. All he needed was some T-L-C and stability, don't we all?
I love him with all my heart & little "Ditty-Witty-Woo!" is definitely a part of my family for life.

Just a Really Sweet Low Maintenance Lap Dog

Coffee is a favorite amongst the novice and seasoned volunteers alike. He is a pleasure to take out on walks or just to cuddle with in his kennel. His easy going friendly personality is a winner! Sadly Coffee has been at the shelter now since March 3rd, his age and small stature make him easy to overlook. I have high hopes that his forever person is right around the corner (maybe you are reading this blog? smile smile) and will go on in and adopt him!

Jane started volunteering at BACS in April. I ran into her and Coffee embarking on a walk (pics below), this is what she had to say about him:

Coffee is such a fun little guy to walk! He has a very sweet way about him, his energy is great, so calm and friendly. Coffee is a low maintenance dog, one 30 min walk a day seems to be just right for him. What he really loves is to sit in your lap and cuddle! I think he would be terrific with a senior citizen or anyone looking for an easy dog to live with and love!