The coronavirus pandemic can be a lonely time for many quarantining alone. But for some who are lucky and are able to share their homes during this time with a furry friend, quarantine isn’t so isolating.
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Since the pandemic began, people stuck at home have been seeking out the companionship of a pet. And since people began quarantining, there’s been a massive surge in dog adoptions.
“We have a large influx of adopters looking to adopt at this time,” said Rachael Rudman, an adoption counselor at North Shore Animal League in Port Washington, New York. “A lot of people are now home, working from home, so they have a lot of time on their hand. And they realized that having a dog. Right now would be the perfect time to get a dog.”
Rudman said that while we’re saving dogs by adopting them during this time, they’re also helping us.
“Animals just bring out this amazing joy, and having an animal around is like having a best friend near you at all times -- they’re always happy to see you,” said Rudman. “They’re always greeting you and having that personality in your home during this horrible time is great to have.”
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Here are some pups across the country that are up for adoption and looking for forever homes.
Apollo, 3 years old
SPCA of Texas’ Jan Rees-Jones Animal Care Center in Dallas, Texas
Maggie, 3.5 years old
SPCA of Texas’ Russell H. Perry Animal Care Center in McKinney, Texas
Captain America, 3.5 years old
SPCA of Texas’ Jan Rees-Jones Animal Care Center in Dallas, Texas
Zeus, 3.5 years old
SPCA of Texas’ Russell H. Perry Animal Care Center in McKinney, Texas
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Location: Westbrook, ME
Agency: Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland
Bonnie
Bonnie has a very loving personality. She is smart, intuitive, playful and a little silly at times. She is fully housebroken and knows how to sit, lay down, and rollover. While she doesn't like going in the crate, she will remain calm once inside. Bonnie's foster mom reports that she is very respectful of household properties such as beds, couches and even trash; she won't touch it unless you give her permission. Bonnie is very excited to meet new people and is working on learning not to jump on them. When she wants attention that she's not getting, she will come up to you and put her toes on yours, and nudge your knees with her nose as if to say "come on, you know you want to play." Bonnie can be a bit picky about food; she prefers her dry food to be completely mixed with wet food. Otherwise, she won't eat. Bonnie's favorite activities are going on walks and playing catch & tug of war, people watching and sleeping. Her least favorite thing in the world is a cat.
If Bonnie sounds like the perfect pup for you, please submit an appointment request here.
Bridger
Meet Bridger! Noted to be adorable, hilarious, and exuberant, Bridger is a young, athletic dog who loves to run, play outdoors, go for car rides and play in the water. Once he is comfortable with someone new, he loves to be close to his person. He is currently being fostered by a trainer who is working on his leash manners, impulse control, and touch sensitivity. He will do best in a home with adults who can provide him with enough exercise to channel his high energy level and patience to grow at his own pace. Could that be you?
For more information, adopters can email AdoptNYC@bestfriends.org.
Hughie
Hello, my name is Hughie! I have a LOT of energy!! My favorite things are walks and booty scritches. I would most likely overwhelm another animal in the home, but I'm worth the attention. While I am potty trained, I wouldn't consider myself a lap dog. I need a little work on my manners; sometimes, I use my mouth a little too much.
Would you like the chance to meet me? Email utahadoptions@bestfriends.org!
Princess Jasmine
Picture this: you're walking down the sidewalk with a beautiful girl by your side. She is athletic, intelligent, and has the cutest freckles. Her name is Princess Jasmine! She is a 6-year-old sporty gal who enjoys hikes, walks, and car rides. Princess Jasmine also loves to curl up and cheer on your favorite team on TV or plug-in for a gaming session. She is smart, too! Princess Jasmine knows basic commands, manners, plus a few tricks! This sweetheart is ready for a family to sweep her away and give her the 'happily ever after' that she deserves!
Princess Jasmine is available for foster or adoption at Best Friends Animal Society's Lifesaving Center in Mission Hills, CA.
Contact adoptla@bestfriends.org to set up a virtual meet and greet or call (818) 643-3989.
Sailor
Sailor is a very friendly and excited pup! He's still learning his manners and is looking for someone who can keep up with his pace. Sailor is currently learning proper leash behavior as well as how to meet people. Though our cute boy is deaf, it doesn't slow him down one bit! Sailor already understands some hand signals, and he is eager to learn more! He also loves fetch, affection, and being a lap dog. If you like to play hard and sleeps hard, then Sailor will be you and Sailor can be two peas in a pod.
If Sailor sounds like the perfect pup for you, please submit an appointment request here.
Rocky Earl
Rocky Earl is a sweet guy who loves to cuddle! Rocky Earl has cancer, but that doesn't stop him from living his best life! His favorite thing to do is to cuddle up next to a human after a relaxing walk. Rocky Earl is affectionate and calm and is looking for someone who is the same!
For more information, adopters can email AdoptNYC@bestfriends.org.
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Humane Society of Washington County in Hagerstown, MD
Misty, 2 years old
Humane Society of Washington County in Hagerstown, MD
Nicki, 11 months old
Humane Society of Washington County in Hagerstown, MD
Oliver
Meet Oliver from the 'Be like Josh Foundation' who's available for adoption. He's approximately 1-year-old and located in Phoenix, AZ. Kimberly (founder of Be like Josh) sent over some photos and videos for us to use below.
MORE: Two dogs prove anything is paw-sible with epic weight loss journeyFor other dogs available for adoption, you can visit websites for the agencies above as well as these links for more shelters:
