SPIRIT (formerly known as Spotter)
Hi there Homeward Bound! Just wanted to let you know that Spirit (previously known as Spotter, the dog saved from euthanasia at a pound) is doing really well! He was rather anxious when we first got him and he exhibited some separation anxiety when we would leave, but never had an accident and seemed anxious to please. Your website had said he'd never lived indoors before and the first time I ran a vacuum he was so scared he tried to jump out the window. Now, after a couple of months he's settled in and has become a calmer, happier, much more confident boy (although he still does not like the vacuum one bit)!

I was hesitant about adopting a second dog because I already had an older dog who isn't often friendly to other dogs, but she accepted him from their first meet, and doesn't even get mad when he jumps excitedly and accidentally lands on her. (He's calm-er, but still puppy-ish! ;)_) My older dog even gets excited to see him when he's been gone somewhere, and shares her toys with him! I think that's puppy love! The cat fascinates him, but he does restrain himself from herding him, altho sometimes he has to whine about that urge a little. Our cat likes him too — I think we all find his enthusiasm and excitement about life pretty endearing!

Spirit graduated from his first session of dog school last night. He did really well and I'm so proud! No one can believe he came from rescue, he's constantly being ooo'ed and aaah'ed over by everyone he meets. They all say he's so handsome and soft and sweet and unique looking. I let everyone know about your great rescue work when they ask about him! He's very friendly with everyone, loves kids, and his favorite thing in the whole world is running around at the dog park!

Thank you so much for working with me to find the perfect dog for our family.

— Jill & Family

TRES' (formerly known as Baron)
My name is Tres', my mommy told me that she wrote you last night, but I didn't feel that she told my story the best that it could be told, so I asked her to write for me.

The day that my mom & dad came to pick me out of ALL the dogs that needed a good home, they brought a pretty little girl (yellow lab) with them who they kept calling Two. She was very excited and wouldn't stop saying HI to all the people and animals that were there. I myself was very scared and didn't want to be in a kennel all by myself, so a nice lady kept me outside so I could see the sky and watch the birds fly by. What I didn't know is that's when my life was about to change! My daddy saw me and asked if I was up for adoption, luckily she said YES. Mommy loved me from the first time that she saw me and introduced me to Two. We liked each other right away, so mom and dad knew we would all be a happy family.

I was so excited to be able to get into a car, that I was the best dog in the entire world the whole way home. I hate to say, that the nice boy only lasted the car ride home. Once I got into the back yard, I dug holes, knocked all of mommies flowers over, and dug in her garden. But that's not all — when I got inside — I peed on a lot of things, and took anything off the cupboards and table that I could.

I knew that if they didn't love me, they would not keep me after all of that but now I know that I am with them forever — mommy says I'm the best boy she's ever seen.

I also have to tell you about my biggest successes. It only took me three months to be trusted off of my leash. I am also (as they call me) such a good nose, that I have been training with my mom for the last year so that the whole family (except my kitties) will be going to South Dakota to hunt my favorite thing in the Whole Wide World. BIRDS!!!!!!!!!

I just wanted to let you know that I am very happy with my new family (and starting to get along with my kitties) and wanted to thank you for helping me find them. I would also like to thank my foster mom for taking care of me while I was getting ready to find my mom and dad.

— Tres'
P.S. The doctor says that I am doing wonderful!!!

BAILEY (formerly known as Classic), MAGGIE (formerly known as Wilma), & BUFFY (formerly known as Beret)
My family has now adopted three dogs from you and three more from other organizations. Our first came from you and we loved her so much we have continued to adopt. My family has always adopted older dogs with special needs because we know that those are often the ones who often go without homes the longest. All of them have been wonderful dogs and we are thrilled to have adopted each one.

My parents have two Shih Tzus from Homeward Bound (Maggie, formerly known as "Wilma," and Buffy, formerly known as "Beret") and I have Bailey (a 6-8 year-old Pekingese), formerly known as "Classic." I adopted him a couple of months ago after checking your website and your adoptions trying to find the right match for Hannah, my shy little Shih Tzu. I always want to take all of the dogs home, but I am so glad I found Bailey! He was exactly the dog I was looking for!

Bailey has slight cataracts and will probably need knee surgery some day, but he is such a wonderful dog he is well worth the cost. I couldn't imagine bringing him back. He runs around like a puppy; you would never know there was anything wrong with those knees! He is perfectly behaved, is completely potty-trained, is a wonderful eater, and is full of love and never-ending kisses! He gets along well with other dogs and is very easy-going. He loves to be with his (and any) people, but also does wonderfully when he's left alone. He just curls up for a nap in his doggie bed or under my bed. I just wanted to let you all know that he is doing wonderfully in his new home and is the sweetest little boy I could ever have asked for!

I am so happy that we found Homeward Bound and have been able to rescue such wonderful dogs. They have brought us so much joy and laughter—getting to know their unique personalities is so fun. There is such a difference in their personalities after a couple of weeks of having them. You can tell how happy and appreciative they are of their new lives. I know that I will never consider anything but adoption for my pets in the future. It is such a rewarding feeling to rescue a pet and show him/her a better life.

— Julie Wennerstrom (and family)

SADIE ROSE
We lost our Bailey Boy to cancer in February 2004 and decided no more animals! Well after a couple weeks all we did was talk about Bailey and decided that we really missed a pet. I checked out the Humane Society in our area (I watch the Animal Cops and decided only a rescue dog would do) and we decided to go to your Petco sight and see what was available. I actually wanted a Rottie and you had two at that time but decided they really were too large. When leaving we walked by the puppy cage and there she sat — looking up at me with those eyes — never moving much really — just looking. I took her into my arms and she settled right in. I then found out she was a Pit Bull and instinct says "no way." Well we decided to take her home. Her former name was Roxie and she is now our Sadie Rose or Sadie the lady! She is the most loving and friendly pup — she is now eight months old — been through kindergarten, loves dog and children and we love her so much it foolish! She is very smart and knows all the commands from school, plus rolls over, shakes and now I have been working on having her sing — which she does quite well! She loves toys, treats and loves to do her tricks! Our next step is regular obedience — and I am sure she will be the star! She did not like the kennel at all when we first got her but she has adjusted well and is in her kennel while we are at work — evenings she decided her bed was not good enough — she needed to be in bed with us! She snuggles, gives kisses and is just a great dog. I am so glad that we gave her the chance even though the breed has a bad reputation. Don't be afraid to give them a chance — they are as loveable as any other dog if socialized with people and animals. She actually thinks all the people and dogs are for her! Thank you for being so great and giving this breed a chance! We love Sadie and are very thankful she is ours!

Bobbi Corbin
Coon Rapids, MN

SPATZ
Dear Homeward Bound,

We wanted to thank you for connecting us with Spatz! He was not our first pick however he has become our best friend! We where truly heart broken when our first adoptee did not work out and where a bit hesitant on returning to another adoption, we almost left empty handed until we noticed our Spatz who was kenneled with some puppies. He was just there, looking a bit like how we where feeling. My husband, son and I all felt a connection to him right away and could care less how much his fee would be. We requested a leash and never let go.

Spatz is now a true member of the family even though our cats like to remind him who was first in the house.

Spatz enjoys playing with his 1 year old friend Kimberly and his 4 year old buddy Christopher. On nice days Spatz enjoys a walk to Christopher's school where he greet Chris with a warm doggy kiss.

You very rarely find Spatz at home alone as the kids request his presence where ever we go. Spatz has found his seat right in the middle of the kids...

Thank you again! We hope that you can continue finding homes for these wonderful animals for many years to come!

— The Rice Family

SADIE
Hi, Homeward Bound. For 1 year and-a-half, we have been promising ourselves that we would write and let you know how wonderful it is to have Sadie as part of our family. Way back in December (December 28, 2002), I walked into Petco in Maplewood for guinea pig food and left with Sadie. (aka Queenie and Cassie) She was so confused with her names and seemed to take to Sadie. Shy, sweet and submissive, she has blossomed over time. She has happy arfs, squirrel barks, bounds with joy and happiness and makes us smile every time we look at her. And if you smile at her — she comes over! She learned quickly that our cats were the big boss and to my surprise, I now find them asleep on the same bed which I never would have thought possible 18 months ago! She was our Happy New Year 2003 joy; she does her goofy bounding when the teens come home from school, puts on her best cute face when food is around and refuses to play fetch (although, I think she would if you threw a squirrel). Sadie is in her forever home however fur-filled it is right now and we wouldn't have it any other way.

Sincerely,
Claudia Haas
Theatre for Youth

RANGER
Hello to everyone at Homeward Bound! I wanted to send an update on Ranger. We adopted him on July 15 and there hasn't been a dull moment in our house since! When we adopted Ranger, we already had one nearly 4 year old Golden mix. Ranger has been a perfect addition — he and Sunny get along famously and can most often be found tearing around the house and wrestling.

Ranger was a new experience for us because he has some typical Golden characteristics that Sunny has never displayed, like carrying a toy around in his mouth all the time. He's sure that if we're sitting idle, we must be really bored, so he makes sure there's always a ball in our lap to throw.

He's a ton of fun and is all boy...he drools and slobbers and is so unbelievably loveable, you can hardly stand it. Thank you Homeward Bound for making this possible. We appreciate all you do!

Libby & Ben Cohen, Sunny & Ranger

SOPHIE
We adopted sophie a few weeks ago a 3#6oz white poodle. She is so happy here and fits in well with the other two dogs and cat I have. Her appetite is never ending and loves to cuddle and be wherever you are. She has a fenced yard and goes out and explores all the flowers and the veg. garden. Can't imagine not having her to love.

Sincerely, Cookie

BUSTER (Formerly known as Buzz)
Hi everyone at Homeward Bound! I thought I would send a picture of Buster (formerly Buzz) and an update on how he is doing. I adopted him back in January of this year and as you can see by his big smile, he is a very happy boy! He is definitely a people dog. He walks up to anyone and everyone and flashes a big smile and sits down so that they can pet him. When we are out walking, people will walk up to us to ask about his missing leg and tell me what a cute dog he is. He gets along well without his leg and even runs better than he walks. He loves to chase a tennis ball and bring it back to me so that I can throw it again for him to chase.

He has been a great companion and a great comfort to me lately — just one week ago my little 14 year old Lhasa/Cookapoo got sick and had to be put down. Buster and I really miss her but I am so glad that I have him to keep me company. I am so happy that he came into my life and so grateful to Homeward Bound for all that you do for all of the dogs out there who need a forever home. Keep up the good work!

Cheryl Jensen

KODIAK (Siberian Husky/Shepherd) and KAIA (formerly Coyote Ugly — Alaskan Husky/Whippet)
We adopted Kodiak (on the right) in January of 2002 from the Fridley Petco. He was there with his brother, both seven weeks old. I had been wanting a puppy for a while and decided that adopting one was a great idea. One look at Kodiak and I couldn't pass him up. I was instantly drawn to those beautiful blue eyes and spunky attitude. I wish we could have taken his brother, too, but the townhouse wasn't big enough for both. I hope he also found a wonderful family to live with. Now, Kodiak is around two and a half years old and weighs 65 pounds. He's my little spoiled guy. He loves to play ball, swim in his pool, chew on rawhides and lay in between us on the couch — that way he can have two people petting him at the same time — a smart dog. He has turned out to be an amazing animal and we couldn't be happier.

After moving into a house with a big fenced-in yard, we decided that maybe it was time to get Kodiak a friend. We drove to the Maple Grove Petco in September of 2003 "just to look." As we wandered through the maze of kennels we saw the prettiest, little girl ever and didn't understand why anyone would want to include the word "Ugly" in her name. As we pondered over the decision to adopt her down one of the aisles, I peeked around the corner at her and she was staring right at me. I was sold. We quickly gave her a much more fitting name, Kaia, which means "the ocean" (like her blue eyes), and she adapted amazingly well. She loves to run and she is extremely fast. Indoors, she is the most laid-back dog I have ever seen (except for when she tackles Kodiak for a ball). She loves to "sing" as we call it and rarely if ever lets out a bark or whine. She also adores being petted. If in the middle of a petting session you decide to stop, she will paw at your arm and pull it toward her again. You're not done until she says so! She is a very, well behaved, girl.

Both of them get along incredibly well. They love to go to the "puppy park" (this is a key phrase that brings on uncontrollable excitement) where they enjoy swimming and running. Kaia especially loves the water. She spends most of the time swimming into the reeds to chase birds and hunt for long lost tennis balls. She always swims to shore with a new ball in her mouth which she then takes and hides somewhere in the weeds. I think if we were to walk through the weeds we'd find a stash of them somewhere. Kodiak loves to play fetch and hang out with the other dogs — especially the little ones. He also enjoys swimming and chasing Kaia along the shoreline. And though determined, he can never catch her, but he'll keep trying.

We are so glad to have them both with us. Thank you, Homeward Bound, for giving us the chance to adopt such wonderful dogs!

Rebecca and Pete

WYLE
just wanted to drop you a line and brag (tell) you about the scared little puppy we adopted thru Homeward bound over two years ago. You had just picked him up the night before adoption day at the Eagan PetCo two years ago. You got him from a dog pound and didn't have much info about him. All you knew was they were going to put him down if you didn't rescue him. He was so scared and sad in the cage that we just had to adopt him. We were there early (while you were setting up) and asked if we could see him before the adoption was supposed to start. One of the ladies helping set up saw how scared he was and let us take him outside to get to know him. We knew that there was no way we could not adopt him. So he came home with us (along with half the store) and began his new life. Two years later and now 65 LBS, here is Wyle with my daughter. We couldn't be happier with him. He has changes our lives for the good. We are so happy that you were able to rescue him so he could live with us. He is no longer scared (well except for thunder storms) and he is very happy. As you can tell he is also very much loved and is VERY spoiled!!!

Thanks again,
Trish

SPIKE
I have been volunteering for Homeward Bound for about a little over a year now. It's been great, and I've got a chance to meet so many great people who have the same passion for dogs as me! During that year my mom and step-dad (Theresa & Chris) said that if we were to get a dog it would be a Miniature Pinscher (Min Pin). So of course me, as an excited future dog owner, started researching and literally doing a full research project on the breed. I showed my parents and they said we could start looking around, which of course didn't mean for sure we were going to get one. We talked to some breeders and just looked around. Then I started thinking about time. Would I really have time for a dog? Could I commit? I got so upset and decided it was time we just gave up, and stopped looking. I was convinced I wouldn't be able to care for a dog. Well, of course that Saturday I went to the Maple Grove Petco and saw a Min Pin. I tried to stay away from him the whole day, because I already made up my mind and knew I couldn't fall in love with him. I called my sister and asked if she was coming to look this Saturday. She said yes. She came in and the first thing she noticed was "Usher" the Min Pin. She asked if she could take him out, so I came with her. She fell in love with him. She called the parents and told them to come at least look. They said they could be there in an hour or so. My sister left me with Usher, I fell in love with him! When my parents came they loved him too, but thought we had already made a decision. They said no. And of course I cried. I just couldn't let him go. He needed to be with me. I left that Saturday very depressed and sad.

Later that week my mom said we could go shopping in the Albertville Outlet. I was excited but still very sad. We shopped and shopped. Then when we were in our last store, my step-dad said he was going to go start the car. Me and my mom walk out a little bit later, and see a big blue van, I even said "Wow, that van looks a lot like the Homeward Bound van." My mom didn't say anything. Then here comes my step-dad with Usher and Cheryl. Cheryl handed me the leash and said, "Congratulations." I was in awe!! I was so happy.

Now here we are today with SPIKE! (Usher to Spike it fits him perfectly!) He is so funny and can always make you laugh! He is very smart, and we all couldn't be happier! He even has his own Homemade Doggie Treats titled "Spike's Snacks." He is a very popular doggy in the neighborhood. I love him so much and couldn't ask for a more perfect dog! None of this could've happened if Homeward Bound weren't here. And I thank you Homeward Bound for my DOG!! And am very happy to be apart of this great dog rescue group! Thank you.

Love,
Megan (13 yrs.) & SPIKE

CHLOE
Chloe just celebrated her six month anniversary with us on April 25, and the difference in her is remarkable. She spent the first four years of her life in a puppy mill, and came to us without any concept of what it is to live in a house, eat nice food, go for walks every day, and be loved. She has just blossomed into the best little doggie, and has even begun to tolerate the attention of strangers we meet. Of course, we never miss an opportunity to educate Chloe's admirers about the commercial puppy trade. She's such a wonderful advocate for adoption. She has blossomed like a rose, and we are head over paws in love with her. The photo is of Chloe with her big sister Lisa. Lisa has come to love her, too, although she sometimes gets a tiny bit annoyed with Chloe following her around everywhere and copying the things she does. But she'll often sit Chloe down and wash her face, which Chloe loves. We just wanted to let you know how things are going. She's a wonderful girl. Thank you so very much for finding her for us.

Linda & Mark

RUGER
My husband and I have been volunteering for Homeward Bound since April 03 and during this time, fostered many of the sweet dogs until a new forever home can be found. Back in August 03, we decided to foster Ruger, a German Shorthair Pointer mix, who is quite big for his breed. We felt sorry for Ruger because he would sit calmly at every adoption and watched as everyone passed up his crate, not even taking a moment to spend time with this sweet dog. My husband I learned that Ruger lived outside on a farm where the husband got tired of him and told his wife to, "get rid of him or I'll shoot him". Unfortunately, Ruger's is not a unique story and many of the dogs who come to Homeward Bound have similar sad tales.

We took Ruger into our home where the very next day we all went to the Uptown Art Fair. He was so well behaved and very popular with the crowd. We were so amazed at this dog, who was never given a second glance was being asked about right-n-left. After we returned home, we realized we didn't want him to be adopted by anyone but us and in our home he still remains. Now we have 4 large dogs in our tiny home but wouldn't give any of them up. Ruger is not typically the type or breed of dog we'd normally be interested in but we taught ourselves a lesson that each dog..no matter the breed..or looks..have their own special qualities.

We pride ourselves in taking the "hard-luck" cases. Dogs who normally may never find a home and in turn find them excellent, loving owners. I'm amazed every day, how many careless "owners" are out there and shouldn't be allowed to have an animal. It's places like Homeward Bound that give these animals another chance. If anything, I hope our story prompts more people (who take the responsibility seriously) to come to one of the pet adoptions and spend some time with these great animals. With a little time and patience, they can make a huge but WONDERFUL impact on your life. Ruger did just that for us.

Sincerely,
Mark and Alisa Kuhn, Robbinsdale MN

OLIVER & SALLY
We first visited your adoption session at Petco in Fridley in August of 2002. You had a Beagle there that really caught our eye. Needless to say, we adopted her. She immediately became part of the family. She is so good. One of the things we were concerned about was her being left home alone for long periods of time. Our jobs sometimes require us both to be away from home for 12 or 13 hours. She has never even had an accident. At first, car rides were a problem. She lost her lunch a couple of times. Everything seemed to turn around with her first ride in the Motorhome. Now she is ready to go at anytime. Her favorite thing is to lay on the dashboard and watch the world go by. One of my fondest memories is the first time I turned the wipers on, she was moving her head along with the wiper. Well, that has become old to her now. She just likes to help me watch for traffic.

About a month ago we felt that Sally would like a companion during the times we are away. Brenda did a lot of looking on the web site for a companion for Sally. She had originally chosen Smith, but we had a concern about him not being completely house trained (because of our situation). We wrote Katie, asking about his suitability in our situation. Katie suggested we look at Oliver. Once again we took a trip to Fridley. While looking at another Beagle Oliver showed up. We fell in love with him. Once again, another success. He is at home all day and never an accident. Initially, there seemed to be some problems between Oliver and Sally. After emailing back and forth with Katie, and talking to other people we realized it was simply a "pecking order" thing. They just have to work it out. Oliver is such a love and seems to demand our total attention. Those are the biggest problems now. He is so loving and needs (almost demands) our full attention. He thinks he is a lapdog (all 40 pounds of him).

Thanks to everyone at Homeward bound for putting us together with both Sally and Oliver. We recommend you folks to everyone we talk to.

Mike and Brenda Walsh

SOUPY
We both knew "Soupy" was the one when we saw him sitting quietly in all the chaos around him at Petco that Saturday in November. He was so calm amidst all the noise of all the dogs and would-be pet owners. (Little did we know that that calm exterior was hiding "puppy energy plus.") I couldn't have been happier when Cheryl handed him to me saying, "Here's your mommy." We both immediately fell in love with his beautiful black face, white speckled paws, and soulful eyes.

He had been found dehydrated along with his siblings (one of whom had died) in the back of car covered up with a sleeping bag in 80-degree weather last September. We named him Soupy after "Soupy Sales," a much loved kid's show host from the fifties. His middle name is "mitzvah," which means good deed, which of course, Homeward Bound Rescue performs, everyday.

He is another gift in our life. What we didn't realize and now know is that he picked us. He was the one who was supposed to add more love, activity, and devotion to our family's life. He is very high energy (we are sure he doesn't sleep at least we've never seen him with his eyes closed) and loves to play. He loves his Frisbee, which also doubles as a sled when there is snow in the backyard. He's so smart. At almost 7 months, he all ready knows many commands. He learned to sit and lay down in just 3 days. He also sits by the back door when he wants to go "outside." He is extremely loving. He wants to have everyone that's in the house in the same room with him. He'll search out who ever is missing and stands at the door and whimper if you leave the room to go up or down stairs. He loves "his" people and knows them by name. He even knows the difference when you ask him to get his "baby" or his "bone." We love him very much and wouldn't trade him for any thing. He gets lots of attention and love, which includes his ears and tummy being rubbed. He has brought so much joy to us.

Thank you.

Carole MacLean and Mick Karch
Crystal, Minnesota

HERSHEY (Formerly known as Kimball)
We are writing to let you know how happy we are with Hershey (formerly known as Kimball). We adopted Hershey shortly after Christmas and could not be happier with that decision.

We are the proud owners of a rambunctious black lab and had been talking about getting another dog for several months. We had been frequenting the Homeward Bound website and had decided to adopt another dog who had been featured in the special needs section. However, when we arrived at the pet adoption, the other dog had already been adopted.

As we walked around to meet all of the other dogs, we were drawn to the sweetest chocolate lab we had ever seen. She was so friendly and could hardly contain herself trying to give kisses and hugs to all of the people who walked by her kennel. We immediately fell in love. We took her for a couple of walks and fell in love even more. She was a little nervous and turned around every couple of steps to make sure we were still there. We knew that if we didn't adopt her, she wouldn't last the rest of the day!

That afternoon, we brought her home to meet her big brother. They spent the weekend getting to know each other and quickly became best friends. They are now inseparable. They love to wrestle and then collapse in a heap on their beds. Even though they both get their own nylabones, they love to share and will each chew on one end of the same bone at the same time. This is the sweetest thing I have ever seen.

Hershey has not only been a great companion for our other dog, she has deeply enriched our lives as well. She has taught us a lot about unconditional love and trust. We believe she was neglected and abandoned. The behavior she demonstrated when we first walked her (of looking back to see if we were still there) was actually a foreshadowing of tremendous separation anxiety. At first when we brought her home, she would not leave our side for a second, not even to go to the bathroom outside. When we left the house, we were forced to kennel her due to some destructive chewing. She did not take it well and became quite an escape artist breaking out of several kennels. She was in such distress, it broke our hearts to leave her alone at all. However, we are pleased to report that she is doing much better. All of our love and patience has paid off. She still loves to be wherever we are, although she no longer becomes distressed when left at home. She has also become secure enough to enjoy spending long hours outside playing with her big brother.

Thank you so much for giving us the pleasure of adding such a wonderful dog to our lives.

Dan and Katie

UPDATE: As we previously mentioned the last time we wrote, Hershey has overcome the tremendous separation anxiety. She has adjusted very well to our home and is truly a best friend to our other lab, Drake.

When we adopted Hershey last year, I was 3 1/2 months pregnant. We were blessed in June with a beautiful baby girl.

I was a little nervous about how Hershey and Drake would adjust to a new baby in the house. I knew it would be a bit of an adjustment because they are both incredibly spoiled and would no longer be able to have our undivided attention. I thought it would be particularly hard on Hershey given her tremendous separation anxiety.

However, the actual adjustment period was not at all what I expected. The dogs went to the doggy spa for a week while we were in the hospital with the new baby. When the dogs returned from the spa, they were introduced to their new sister. They were very curious about her and really wanted to shower her with kisses. For the first few weeks, every time she would cry, they would frantically pace between her and us and bark as if to say, "please help her". In the past six months, we have not witnessed any speck of jealousy from the dogs. In contrast, the behavior they have exhibited is very protective.

Hershey in particular is such a good protector. Whenever I get up to feed the baby in the middle of the night, Hershey gets up as well and lays by my feet. This summer, when Hershey and I went in for feedings and the windows were open, if she heard any kind of a noise, even a leaf blowing in the distance, she would go over, lay by the window and growl letting me know that she was there to protect us.

Our baby girl is getting increasingly active and social with the dogs. She loves to watch them play and wrestle. She finds it particularly funny when they scratch themselves. They have been unbelievably patient with her reaching out to pet them. She is working on her motor skills and has occasionally poked the dogs in the eyes. She also likes to grab their fur and ears. They don't even flinch when she pokes or prods at them.

Both of our dogs have been rescued from shelters. I have witnessed firsthand the gratitude and undying love and loyalty of a rescue dog. All of our future dogs will also be rescue dogs. I Thank you for your love and compassion for all of the animals you have helped over the years. I thank you for giving us the opportunity to add such a wonderful dog to our family.

MOOSE
We thought Homeward Bound would enjoy knowing our adoptee "Moose" is now 105 pounds and fully grown. We celebrate his first year with us in December. We named him "Moose" as his long skinny legs andhuge feet along with the dark, dark brown coat seemed best suited as a Moose. At first he did not know how to handle dealing with affection from people. Seemed to have never been petted, didn't come up to you etc. Never wagged his tail. He also had no idea how to play with toys or interact with another dog. Well, one year later, he has changed 100%. He is one of the most affectionate dogs I have ever seen. He thinks he is an 105 pound lap dog. His tail wags anytime someone is around. He loves to be touched and plays ball alone, throwing up the ball and goes after it himself. Moose is a very cheerful dog and we love him dearly. He call Moose our Christmas Dog — with no room in the inn...in the middle of a cold night, he was taken in by strangers.

Thought you would all like to know. Real success story....we love Moose.

RADAR
Everyone at Homeward Bound was thrilled when Radar was adopted. He had been with Homeward Bound for a long time and was more than eager to find his very own forever home. The wonderful people who adopted him sent us an update on how Radar is doing at his new home. This is what they had to say:

Radar is adjusting great and I've been working with him and we've been going up in the hills here for walks and he loves it. He seems to love to play in the snow and run around and just be silly. A friend came over and knocked on the door and believe it or not he actually ran to the door and let out one bark then stood there and looked at me like "Ok Dad, I let you know someone was at the door now it's your job to answer it!" He's a great dog and I'm so happy we came an adopted him were all turning in to one big happy family and he seems to be settling in good and he's starting to feel secure. He loves the ferrets I have and he mooches treats from them and its funny. He walks over to the ferrets cage and touches noses with them and tries giving them licks and they drop food out of their cage to him and then bounce around acting silly and he loves it. Last night he woke me up with a big lick in the face then snuck up in bed beside me and went to sleep (were defiantly looking for a bigger bed).

Pooky and Radar are becoming good friends and their each teaching each of new things. We're working with Radar on letting him know its OK to play and just be himself and that he wont get yelled at. It seems like he wants to play but he's afraid to so were working on making him feel secure and that it is OK to play. He enjoys laying next to my recliner and being brushed a lot and having his ears rubbed. I think in time he'll learn that he can do things that he enjoys, like walks and playing and just being Radar. He will be be happy but its gonna take time because of some of the things he's gone through.

We're so happy we've have him he's part of our family.

Sincerely, the Romans

MIDNIGHT
Hi, I adopted Midnight last fall and it was the best thing to happen to me in my life. She's a great dog, people lover, smart, loyal, fun and loving. I used to steer clear of Pit Bulls, but she has made the breed my favorite. If you have any people questioning about the breed and they want to meet a great one (the best!!!), email me (kylehoberg@hotmail.com) and let me know, I'd love to help!

Midnight and I did encounter a bad period. She got hit by a car on December of 2003. So a guy who wanted a cheap dog, ended up with one of the most expensive ($5000). She's totally fine and back to herself (nothing about her changed—just the cost).

Note to all. If you want to be happy, adopt!!!!

GRACIE
Here is a photo of our sweet 2 year old Gracie (formerly Taylor.) In July, 2003 we had to put our Golden Retriever to sleep because of cancer. It was so painful our hearts just ached. He was a member of our family since he was a puppy. My husband, Mike and I just felt such a void with him being gone. After a week of Levi's departure, we already started talking about getting another dog, but it was just in the talking phase. The next Saturday we drove by the Maple Grove Petco and saw they were having a Pet Adoption. So, we thought we'd go in just for a look.

There were a lot of dogs and we took many of them for walks, but none just seem to be the "one." As we were about to leave one of the workers brought us over to Gracie. We didn't look at Gracie because my husband and I like big dogs and she was only about 50 pounds. The worker told us that Gracie was very timid about going into the foster home at first. Her daughter and herself had to work with her, but she finally came it. She said she was a very loving dog, gentle and tender hearted. They were guessing she was used for hunting and left outside the majority of her life.

We decided to take her for a walk and feel in love with her. She walked well from the very beginning. It was apparent that she had obedience training. When we laid on the grass with her and she snuggled right away into my husband chest. As we were laying on the grass, Mike said "Well, what do we do? We really didn't expect to get another do only a week after Levi's death." I told him we'd be sorry if we didn't get her. That someone else would snatch her up in a second. He smiled and Gracie became part of our family.

We've seen Gracie grow from a shy, quiet dog to queen over the house, including three cats! She is loving (lots of kisses), gentle, tender-hearted and quiet. Gracie rarely barks. She loves her walks but love fetch even more. Thank-you Homeward Bound for filling the void and blessing us with Gracie.

Sincerely,
Mike and Julie Gannon, Champlin

MARTINI
We adopted Martini (formerly known as Reba) in July of 2000. This poor girl had come from a puppymill situation so we had a few issues to deal with. Lucky for us she had been in a good foster home who gave her a good start on her new life. When we first brought her home, she wouldn't come out of her kennel. We just carried it around the house with her in it until a day or two later she decided to come out and socialize. Martini is now a happy go lucky young lady who basically runs the house. Although she has never learned to play with toys or us, she still manages to entertain us with her bubbly personality. It seems like every week we still see something new from her that is usually quite funny. Everyone that meets her can't believe how sweet she really is. The groomer and vet both tell us how wonderful she is to work with. She will let you do anything you want to her. She even lets us brush her teeth. She doesn't fight it at all.

Martini just loves to eat and hang out in the kitchen. We don't know why but ever since we got her she goes crazy when she sees a potato heading for the cutting board. She starts jumping around and barking. She just loves raw potatoes, cooked potatoes, canned potatoes and just about everything else. Now, over 3 years later she just goes crazy when she sees the cutting board coming out of the drawer.

Martini is happiest when she can just sit on the couch or hang out with one of us. She has a funny habit sitting there for awhile and then getting off the couch and bugging the other one trying to get him in the kitchen for a treat. She will run circles around you, herding you to the refrigerator.

With her love for food, she really needs her exercise. One of her issues is she hates to go for walks. We even had her to obedience training and they couldn't get her to do it either. So, for Martini to exercise, we have to carry her down the street and then she will walk back home. She won't walk away from the house or away from the car if we take her to a park. We have had the neighbors ask us what is up with that. If you ever see someone carrying a dachshund down the street, or around a park, that would be us. Maybe we should have named her Princess.

We are so grateful we found her at your adoption. Thank you Homeward Bound!

Darrell and Mark
New Hope.

TIGER
We found Homeward Bound in early October, after it was suggested by a friend who knew we were considering adopting a dog. After one look at the website, rather than finding a dog, we fell in love with Tiger, a two-year old tabby. We have had so much fun with Tiger since adopting him. Other than the occasional meowing in our ears at 4 am to be fed, he has brought great joy to our house. And we don't even mind those early morning requests too much. He loves playing with string, batting pens off the table, and "investigating" every cabinet, drawer and closet in our house. It's like a new adventure every time they get opened! He's very loving, and everyone who comes to our house falls for Tiger as quickly as we did. It was wonderful to have him around at Christmas time, and he even got a stocking with lots of treats in it! We are thankful to have connected with Homeward Bound and to have Tiger as a member of our family. We'll still get a dog sometime soon, but for now Tiger has the run of the house!

UPDATE: Hooray! Tiger's family adopted an adorable pooch! Scroll up the screen until you find Toby's success story...

WAYLON
Waylon had been with Homeward Bound for 5 whole months until his wonderful new two-legged "mom" adopted him on January 10th. Before Homeward Bound rescued him, poor Waylon had lived his entire life outdoors and let me tell you — we have never seen a dog so grateful to be inside the house! His new owner has told us that he is doing very well (despite a few pee accidents the first couple of days) and that his new doggy sister enjoys his company and going on walks together. His mom wrote, "You can tell when he is happy by his cute little dance with his front paws. He's a sweety." Doesn't it sound like Waylon is a lucky pooch to have found someone who will no doubt give him the love and respect he deserves? We are so happy that Waylon found his forever home!

LARK
I don't know if you remember Lark the 3 legged dog. It will be a year on Jan. 25 the 2003 that we adopted her. My husband and I stopped in PetCo in Maplewood with really no intention of adopting a pup — we were down in the cities spending the day shopping. As we walked past all the dogs all needing homes our hearts melted. Then we both saw this sad looking sweetheart. The minute we saw her it was love at first sight. We asked what her story was and it was the saddest most horrible thing we'd ever heard. We learned she'd been abused and thrown down the basement steps, her right back leg had been broken, she'd not been taken to a vet for TWO weeks. By the time she was it was too late to save her leg. That wonderful day we walked into PetCo and saw her we knew she was meant to be with us. We live in the country up north on a lake. What a perfect place to bring this cutie to live for the rest of her life. Our BIG yard is all fenced so she has lots of room to play and know that she is safe. Well Lark has grown up and was 1 year old in July. She is the happiest, friendliest most loveable dog in the world. And she doesn't have a clue that she has 3 legs. She can run like she was shot from a cannon. Everyone that meets her falls in love with her and she with them. She has learned to trust and that I'm so proud of her — she knows no one will ever hurt her again. And be the way, she loves to go to the vet! Most people have trouble getting their dogs in the door of the vet, I have trouble getting Lark to leave, that's how well adjusted she is and how loving. Lark is the best thing that has ever happened to us and I'm so grateful we decided to go into that store that day. Thank you Homeward Bound for the wonderful work you do.

OTIS & GUIDO
Back in late September my cat "Kitty" went into renal failure and had to be put to sleep. This was very painful for me not only because she was gone and I missed her so, but also because I no longer had an animal to care for. Long ago, I had clipped out a newspaper article about animal foster care and thought that might be something I would do after Kitty went to be with Spaz, my other cat who died four years ago. I found that article and went to Homeward Bound's website only to discover Otis....the featured cat on their website. I started emailing Megan inquiring about Otis and also another cat, Agua. After a few weeks, I ventured off to Richfield's PETCO for the pet adoption day on October 18th. When I got there, I was not expecting my reaction to these homeless animals, the wonderful people trying to help them and the wonderful people there to adopt them. Needless to say, I was overwhelmed with emotion, not only because of what I was seeing, but that I missed my Kitty. Then I found Otis, the young adult cat that I had been inquiring about. Otis was very upset and didn't like being with the dogs. I got Otis out of his cat carrier to hold him only to discover a very small black cat in there with him...uh, that would be Guido. When I had left that morning for the adoption, I had decided to only get Otis and hoped that Agua would find another home. Agua found another home that day and so did Guido....my home. After talking to both Cheryl and Megan about how Otis and Guido were buddies and only two months apart, I decided that I should keep them together.

It has been so much fun having "kittens" in the house again, although I have to admit, I forgot what it's like to have "kittens" in the house. Otis is now 11 months old and Guido is 9 months old and both are full of piss and vinegar. Otis is quite the talker and investigator. Guido is a little instigator and trouble maker. I feel bad for Otis sometimes because Guido always wants to play, wrestle and bite. I sometimes call Guido the little "ankle biter". It's been fun watching them realize that they aren't going to be put into a carrier every weekend to the adoptions. They are very spoiled with a lot of toys and hugs and kisses. My nieces and nephews have been over to visit them and they are both GREAT with kids. Grandma and Grandpa like them too!

I am so glad that I didn't let myself feel guilty about getting new cats after Kitty died. Kitty was a stray and had been in the family for 10 years and with me for the past 5 years. I know for a fact that she had a good home here with me and was extremely happy here. I figured it was silly to wait when I could make a couple of more cats in need of homes very happy too. Time was a waste'n needlessly.

Otis and Guido are home.

BOONE
I just had to write to you guys and let you know how happy I am with my new family! This is a picture of me with my bestfriend Cloey, in the front of my new home. For those who don't know me, I am the big "puppy" on the right! I have never been so happy! I spend my days inside with Cloey and my four cats, Snickers, Boo Boo, Piggy, and Mizoo. When Mom and Dad are home, Cloey and I get to run all over the backyard. This summer, we spent our free time building a big privacy fence so we can play outside together as much as we want. I love going for rides in the car with Dad, it is our special time together. Oh, Mom and dad wanted me to say thank you to Homeward Bound Rescue for finding me for them! You have made us all very happy! As a matter of fact, I think Mom and Dad may be thinking about adopting one more ........

VEGAS
I believe I have been blessed with one of your greatest success stories. Vegas was 7 weeks old when I brought her home from your Eagan adoption project 9 years ago. She has shepherded me through moves back and forth between Las Vegas and here, kept me sane through divorce, been my walking partner every day for nine years, kept loneliness away and above all else, gave me the opportunity to experience pure, mutual unconditional love. She passed away last may and I write this tribute to express no matter the sense of loss and pain that I still carry, I would not trade our time on earth together for anything in the world. The emotions and feelings that I shared with this loyal, loving, protective canine companion have forever changed me. Thank you for bringing us together for our 9 year journey that has provided me a lifetime of memories to cherish and reflect on. I truly hope there is a heaven, for that is where she belongs. I miss you Vegas...

MARMADUKE
My Husband and I adopted Marmaduke In July 2003. A friend of mine told me about your website, and out of curiosity I checked it out. I saw a picture of Marmaduke, and thought he was adorable. I called my husband and begged him to go with me to Petco that weekend to check him out. We got to Petco an hour before the adoption began so that we would be the first ones to meet him. When he was brought into his cage he was about twice the size that we had imagined, and the bark that he let out was enormous too! Neither of us had ever seen a Chesapeake Bay Retriever, and honestly because of his size, we were second guessing my brilliant idea. We walked him around outside for a few minutes, and it didn't take us long to decide (even though he is as tall as I am when standing on his back paws), that we couldn't leave that day without him. Marmaduke fits in perfectly with our little family. He is gentle giant, who loves to bury his head in your lap and could cuddle for hours. Marmaduke is a wonderful dog who was trained very well by his previous owners. He loves to fetch his ball in the back yard, and sometimes gets to play in a nearby lake. Marmaduke now has many nicknames: Marmaduke (when he is misbehaving), duke, dukie, and marmies. The three of us are a very happy together, and I can't imagine him not being around. WE LOVE MARMADUKE!!! Thank you Homeward bound for taking such good care of him and all of the other pets waiting for their perfect home

Thanks Again!

Beth and Jason Friedrichs, Maple Grove, MN

CLEO
We adopted Cleo from your organization in December of 1999. We went to a Petco store where you had about 30 or so dogs available. We started our search in a circle to our left around the pens and when I came to her pen the lady asked me if I wanted to pick her up — I did! Then my husband went back around the room looking at other dogs, turned back and realized I wasn't following — I was holding the puppy and getting kisses and he knew right then and there we weren't going home empty handed that night. He was right, I couldn't have left her there no matter what — she was just so adorable with a sweet face and funny big ears. She still hasn't grown into them!!

She has brought unending joy to our family — she's absolutely adorable, funny, friendly and the most loving dog we have ever owned. You will see from the picture I am attaching that she is also a little spoiled — well, at least some might think so but dog lovers probably understand that sleeping on the master's bed is just fine!

Right now I'm having trouble getting this put together because she is ready to play "football" so I have to keep stopping to play catch with her. She still hasn't lost much of her puppy playfulness although my husband says he can't get her to play much if I'm not home. Apparently, she needs the whole family settled before she can have fun.

One of the things I like most about her is her need to be close. When I return home from work we have a regular ritual — she goes outside to do her business while I change out of my work clothes. Then she comes in and goes right for my bed where we snuggle and talk about our day — if I have had a bad one (which I had several of this spring when I was laid off from my job after 23 years) then she nestles right into my body and listens. Occasionally, she moves around as needed to "kiss" my cheek or nose or whatever and then goes right back to snuggling. She never misses a day and on days that I am late and my husband gets home first he says she can be persistent in making him go through the same ritual. I don't think he gets it thought — he always falls asleep!!!

We became empty-nesters last fall when our only child started graduate school. Cleo is a great substitute — now I can spoil her and it doesn't cost so much as spoiling our daughter! You should see Cleo's reaction when Kelly comes home for a visit — it would warm your heart. I sometimes think Kel misses Cleo more than mom and dad — and that's okay because I probably would too.

Thanks again for doing what you do.

Kathy, Mike and Cleo Donahue

BUDDY
I first laid eyes on Buddy at the PetCo in Maple Grove, MN where he was up for adoption. I immediately called my wife to tell her about this gorgeous young Golden Retriever I had seen, however, she was less enthusiastic than I had hoped and the subject of adopting Buddy quickly died. I then went away on a business trip and when I returned six days later, there was BUDDY! My wife had second thoughts and she went to see him the following weekend at a PetCo in Eden Prairie, she fell in love with him immediately just as I had, and brought him home.That was five years ago, Buddy will be seven years old in November, 2003.

Buddy had a wonderful companion, a female Golden Retriever seven years his senior. Unfortunately, Buddy lost his companion earlier this summer when "Mickey" succumbed to old age. Buddy was visibly shaken by the loss of Mickey, but now he seems to be back to normal again. I have had several Golden Retrievers during my life, but none as sweet and affectionate as this fellow, Buddy has been the best dog I have ever had, he just loves people, he needs to be touched, held and hugged as much as you can deliver, which around here, I assure you is plenty!

Thanks so much to the Homeward Bound Organization for making this wonderful pet available to us, keep up the good work, God Bless.

Jim & Marilyn Larson
Prior Lake, MN

MCENROE (Formerly known as Bellows)
We adopted a black lab/Chesapeake mix from Homeward Bound in May 2003, and we just had to tell you how much we love our dog! We renamed him McEnroe, not because he's crabby, but mainly because he's got so much character. Little Mac fits right into our daily lives, and is always happy to go exploring or lay on the couch and cuddle. Homeward Bound was modest about how well trained he was when we got him. He's never had an accident in the house! He loves other dogs, and we often take him to play with friends on weekends. He even gets along (grudgingly) with our cranky old cat, Louis. After much trepidation, my wife even taught him to love water, which he will now romp through with great enthusiasm.

We can't thank Homeward Bound enough for our wonderful new addition to our little family. We couldn't imagine a better way to find a new friend.

Sincerely,
Susanna, Art, and McEnroe Johnson

RAMSEE
We adopted Ramsee in August of 2003. I first noticed her at Petco in Eden Prairie, I had to find out more information about her. I found out she came from a puppy mill and was four years old. That would explain why she was so afraid of everything! I left Petco feeling horrible having to leave her and the other dogs there. I went home later that day and pulled up your website and saw Ramsee on it......I thought I would show my mom how cute she was, and just maybe she would want to get her... sure enough, she wanted to go to Petco in Fridley the next Saturday. We got there early so we could see her first, my mom fell in love, just as I did. She has been with us ever since. She is still scared of other people. She gets along great with the cats and other dog. It has been a growing process for her. She has come a long way since we first brought her home. She is happy and so are we!! Thanks Homeward Bound Rescue!

Michelle and Pat