Friends, 

About four weeks ago there was an article in the Maryland Independent about the shelter dogs from South Carolina that were brought here after Hurricane Matthew, and there was a picture in the article of the saddest little dog. She looked totally defeated and yes, of course, I had to adopt her. She was named (appropriately) "Carolina." When I came to see her, she was so weary and sad she didn't even want to lift her head or make the effort to see me.

I wanted to let you know what a totally sweet and wonderful dog she is. She was exhausted and probably traumatized from her life events until she got to my house and had time to rest and recuperate. She tested positive for heart worms and is undergoing treatment. She's been kept quiet and mostly secluded due to the heart worms, but she is feeling so much better now!

Carolina and my dog Barkley, whom I adopted from TCAS several years ago, had a very slow introduction. I think she had been through so much, she just couldn't deal with one more thing, and I wanted her kept calm and quiet as much as possible. She also seemed to prefer the quiet seclusion as she recovered. I've been working with them, gradually letting bringing them together, and telling them both they have a new FRIEND... I think she's finally realized she is HOME and this is her new family. 

Carolina has been fine with my cat (who fortunately likes dogs), though she seems surprised that the cat doesn't hiss and run like most cats would. Her appetite is good, and her personality is expanding. She gives me doggie kisses, and is starting to give them to Barkley. She seems glad to see him. She is getting happier every day and wags her tail and smiles a lot. 

So far, I've kept her in a separate room at night, and while I'm gone to work during the day, but she is spending more and more time with us as she recuperates and realizes she's with her family. She seems comfortable and settled. Probably in the next day or so I will have her with us (not in a separate room) full time, or as much as she wants to be.

I am blessed to have her in my home ... she could not be sweeter! But she also is a great watchdog and has a very deep voice when she barks. I have heard her bark only once when someone approached the house. She seems more afraid of men, and will hide behind me if the handyman or my neighbor comes to the house... and that's ok. There's no way of knowing what her life was like before being brought to Maryland, but I have plenty of patience and love to give her. She is delightful.

I thought you'd like to hear how well she's doing in her new home. Barkley, Kitty Girl, and I are happy to have Carolina with us!

Sincerely,

Carol D.

This holiday adoption drive saves the lives of orphan pets and raises awareness about the importance of pet adoption. Why? More families bring a new pet home during the holiday season than at any other time of the year. 

The Tri-County Animal Shelter is excited to be participating in this annual event. During the month of December, the shelter is reducing the adoption fee to $100 for dogs and $10 for cats.  Help our animals find the forever home they deserve. 

December 2 is National Mutt Day