BANJO
I just wanted to give you an update on Banjo. We adopted him a little over a year ago. I had seen him on your website and couldn't get him out of my mind. He was having trouble bonding with people since he had been rescued from a very abusive situation. No one adopted him for several months so against my better judgment (we already had 5 dogs and 2 cats!) I went to the adoption day and brought him home with me. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made. His personality has blossomed! He now has very high self esteem (as do all our critters) and with a lot of love and patience he now trusts my husband. This is huge because Banjo was badly abused by a man. He sleeps with us and tries to run the household. Thanks for helping him get to us. You do wonderful work.

Sincerely,
Trish & Mark Hamm

SIMON
Hi and hello- It occurred to me that I should just let you know that adopting from HWB was one of the best choices I have ever made, and "Simon" agrees...He's the greatest little mutt- We adopted him from an adoption day at the Petco in Fridley about 2 years ago.- He was a stray that is a westie/jack russell mix, and is about 4 years old. He loves collecting stuffed toys- even teddy bears that aren't really his, per say...He's got a real thing going with the 4 year old boy next door- they're pretty chummy...and, he's got a bit of a nemesis in the cat across the street...He can get past us really quick and off he goes- the cat will disappear into the ground level window they leave open for her, and Simon will trot right in after her. The humans there are great about catching Simon and bringing him back- he has the funniest look on his face, like it's a real let down to be caught....Also, he lets the whole world know that he's not too crazy about UPS trucks and garbage trucks. The mailman? His best buddy. Well, thanks again for adopting Simon out to us....He's great.

KASEY (formerly known as Shelly)
Hello,
I would just like to thank homeward bound rescue for giving us such a wonderful dog. She is just what we needed for our family she is lovable and sweet. She feels she is a little attention deprived but that just makes her more sweet. It was a little rocky at first with the bathroom situation but she seems to be getting better with a schedule. Kasey is my 2yr olds best friend now tolerating anything that is done including playing dressup and going for walks around the island in the kitchen. Our 7 year old rottie was not happy at first but now he even shares his food with her. If we ever get another dog I would easily get it from a rescue. I just wanted to extend my thanks.

-Jennifer Doherty

VELMA
I adopted an older dog, (estimated to be 10 years at that time) a bit over 7 years ago in 1998. She was offered at an adoption weekend by the Homeward Bound group. It was held at Petsmart in Plymouth in 1998. Velma ("Vellie") is an extremely shy little white poodle, that trembled when touched. She is now 17+, if that early estimate was close, and very healthy, active and happy. She lives in Clearwater with Teddy, a little male Pomeranian, that she thinks is the most wonderful dog she has ever known. They run and play together and seem to really enjoy their big yard. They have been together since 2 weeks after she came to us. Just thought that you might want some news of her. Please pass my thanks on to the great people at Homeward Bound, They deserve hear some "good news" every once in a while. You all do a wonderful service to the dogs, as well as to us!

-Jan Propsma

BUCK (formerly known as Bubba)
It's Buck (aka Bubba) here. Well I have been with my new owners for a few months now, and I am adjusting real well. I am really happy with my new owners, I get a ton of treats, I can sleep where ever I want. But the best part is the kids. They love to play, hug, sit and lay with me.

Did I mention my new best friend Dakota (black lab). We run around the yard, chase the squirrels, play tug a war and just plain lay around with each other. We were meant to be buddies!!!

I have been putting on some weight, but as you may remember I needed to, you could see my ribs. My owners say I am filling out nicely.

Thanks,
Buck & the Peterson's

PHEBE (formerly known as Gabby)

Dear Homeward Bound,

Just wanted to thank you for the opportunity to adopt Phebe (formerly Gabby) on February 4, 2006. She was only with you for about a week so you probably didn't get much of a chance to know her and you may not remember much about her.

She is the sweetest little thing and such a wonderful addition. She made herself right at home as you can see from the pictures. She is getting along great with my husky/lab cross, Denali. They love to wrestle and play together and even though she is only 26 pounds compared to his 63 pounds they're a great match for each other.

Her description said she was about 4 months old, but she sure doesn't act it. I took her to my vet the other day, and it turns out she is at least 9 months old (she has all her adult teeth)! So she probably won't get a lot bigger, which is fine with me, she is such a cute little peanut!

Thanks for all your wonderful work!

Sincerely,
Laurel, Phebe and Denali
Otsego, MN

JAYE
Hi! I just wanted to update everyone on Jaye. She's been home with me for a little over 3 months now and I can honestly say, I have never had a better dog. Ever. She settled in really quickly and she and my male cat, Pugsley, bonded immediately. My female, Wednesday, had some convincing to do but, people have commented that you would never know the three hadn't been together forever. The cats are 14 years old so I was a little anxious that this transition went well and it's been amazing!

After about 3 weeks of training through the separation anxiety, with minimal incidents and no medication, she happily spends her days with her stuffed Kong and kitty-cats for company. I have a huge back yard but she loves her morning and evening walks the best and likes our weekends at the dog park even more.

She's so gentle and affectionate and incredibly intelligent. She always does what I tell her but likes to push her boundaries every once in while to test the waters as most smart dogs do. Lately, she's taken to groaning as a way of communicating with me and has let the strangers who come to the door know just whose house this really is. To me, this means she's home!

We had a wonderful first Christmas together and she received so many treats and presents from my whole family. My Mother even sent gifts from Massachusetts...alas, no Red Sox collar yet! Here she is modeling one of her gifts.

I can't even begin to put into words the admiration I have for what you guys do. It takes a special kind of soul to open your homes and your hearts to an animal, many with special needs, and then willingly allow them to move on and be loved by someone else. I applaud you and I thank you.

Jaye is the best thing that has happened to me in a long time. She is part of my family and I'm so happy and blessed to have found her.

Thank you!

ELSA & RUDIE (formerly known as Hooch)

Rudie was adopted "Hootch" in June 1996. He was a year old and a hand-full. Now he and his little sister are snuggle bugs and I can't imagine the last 10 years without him. Thank you so much for this opportunity. He is the one on the left.

QUINCY (formerly known as Quasar)

Dear Homeward Bound,

We met Quincy (formerly known as Quasar) at an adoption day in Maple Grove in July. Quincy is a yellow lab mix who was found as a stray. When we met Quincy, he was a very active fellow with an injured paw. He was very excited to play with us at the pet adoption despite his injury. Apparently he had been in rescue for several months because of his high energy level and poor leash manners. We already had Henry, a high energy young Chocolate Lab male, so we thought another playful dog would mesh well into our household.

After a few rocky days, the dogs hit it off. Now they are best friends and enjoy wrestling, walking, visiting off leash parks, swimming and chewing bones together. There have been a few incidents of sibling rivalry, but overall they get along famously. Quincy has improved in his sharing abilities. It took awhile for him to realize that there will always be enough toys and rawhide to go around, but he's much better now.

We put Quincy on a gentle leader and he now walks very nicely. His passion in life is tennis balls. He will fetch until he collapses. We quickly learned that we can't let him play with tennis balls in the house because he becomes obsessive and demanding. Quincy is a very loving, affectionate dog. We can't believe that someone abandoned him! If the worst thing about Quincy is that he loves balls, he's doing pretty well!

We are so happy that we adopted Quincy. He is pictured with his brother Henry in their Christmas gear. Quincy is the yellow lab in the front.

Sincerely,
Nicole Kralik and Dan Tranter

DAISY (formerly known as Chex)

Hey! It is me, Daisy! You used to know me as Chex. I am the beautiful little Beagle mix. My new dad called the telephone number on my old rabies vaccination tag and the animal hospital that answered was able to cross reference the tag number and provide my birthday! I am going to be two in march! I may have to have a party.

I really love it here! I have a new girl named Maddie who takes good care of me and is lots of fun to play with. She is a pretty good tugger, but I always win! I think maybe she lets me. I found a special spot on the beanbag chair when I first moved here and my new family has put a blanket there for me! I have lots of toys and get lots of treats!

There are other dogs in the area too! I love to play with my neighbors, King and Truman. I also run into Murphy once in a while.

Everyone I meet talks about how sweet I am. Everyone just loves me! I hope it doesn't go to my head. My new mom and dad think I am a real find. They just can't understand how someone could have let me go.

It is getting to be bed time. I hope all of the other animals can find families as good as mine!

Love, Daisy

SPIKE (formerly known as Porkchop)

One year ago this weekend in January we adopted Porkchop & Beefy. Now known as Spike & Chopper. My parents took Chopper and we took Spike. We were so so lucky to have gotten these boys. They get to see each other often and after non stop playing they sleep for a full day when they go home.

I call Spike my bulldog retriever, he will play catch with you until the cows come home. He like many big dogs thinks he also thinks he is a lap dog. And he is more of a snuggler than my husband!

I read another success story that said she actually avoids adoptions. I know what you mean. This web site is in my favorites and I too look every sunday or monday to check on everybody. I am always happy to see the faces that you get to know, suddenly disappear. I am hoping some day we will get a bigger house and yard so we can add to our family. Until then thank you so much for saving Spiker baby for us!! Oh and Chopper too!

LILY
Hello...my name is Lily. (the white and brown Springer) I wanted to thank Homeward Bound for helping to match me to the perfect family! My mom and dad had been looking for a sibling for Sampson for a while, but just couldn't seem to find the right fit.

When I came in to HWB, Katie let my mom and dad know right away that she thought I might be the dog they had been searching for. It turns out she was right. Once they saw me, it was love at first sight!

I absolutely LOVE my new home! When we're not taking trips to the dog park or the lake to go swimming, we like to have our doggie friends over. I've trained my mom to play tennis ball with me for hours at a time! My new brother Sampson always wants to wrestle, and it can bug me some times. But I lay down the law when I need to! (he knows who's boss!) This past fall I got to go pheasant hunting A LOT! And it turns out I'm an excellent hunter! And next week my mom and I are starting an agility class! Boy, I have a busy schedule!

My favorite thing is every night when Sampson and I snuggle up in between mom and dad in bed so we can all sleep together. Mom and dad are always saying how happy I must be because I'm always smiling! And they're right...I LOVE my new family!!!!!

Thanks Homeward Bound!
Lily

ELSIE (formerly known as Legend / Jackie)
Dear Homeward Bound,

As the proud owners of two Rescue siblings, Earnie and Emmie, from Guardian Angels in Pine County, the last thing that I went to Petco for was another dog. I actually avoid adoption days because I feel so bad that anyone would just discard a member of their family. I just happened upon "adoption days" in Maplewood by accident when one of my daughters and I went to get new harnesses for our dogs. Thinking that there was a training class we stopped to watch. It didn't take us long to figure out what was really going on. We decided to walk a few of the dogs to get them out of their cages for a while. That led to "maybe we should foster care". As we discussed this with staff I noticed a medium sized black/brown three year old dog at the very end of row curled up in a little ball. I asked the staff about her and was told that she has been with the program for a long time and has been by-passed by many because she is so "plain and ordinary". Plain, ordinary, by-passed by many, and her name was "Jackie". What could we do? We walked her for about ten minutes, asked for information about her from her foster mom, very helpful by the way, and adopted her! After the fact I called my husband and asked "if he still loved me". Of course he thought that I had bought a chair that I wanted, but after almost 32 years of marriage and 7 kids and numerous pets he was cool with the idea.

We are a dog lov'n family as is indicated by our present three dogs, our past loved ones; a stray, Taffy 16 years, and Krissie 15 years. Our three oldest kids who are married also each have two rescue dogs our "grand dogs."

Elsie, previously Jackie, previously Legend, has fit right in. Sometimes she is a little imp and gets the other two who are actually a year younger, but much more laid back, going. Oh we guard our shoes, but if she decorates them with teeth marks, its our own fault for leaving them out, and Emmie and Elsie have to be separated when they have chewies, but outside of these minor issues the dogs get along fine and sleep together and play together. We love this awesome, smart, dog and can't imagine how anyone in Indiana could have gotten rid of her. Because my husband is in remission for stage three colon cancer (prayers welcome by the way) all of the dogs, with the guinea pig, birds and fish, keep us focused and busy-especially our two youngest age 11 and 14.

Thank you Homeward Bound for saving this super dog and thank you to all of the people who by-passed Elsie so that she was there for us! Thank you for the wonderful foster care that she had also, and for the advice that I called for and asked about, after we got home!

Jackie and Dale Ek-Pangerl
White Bear Lake, MN

MAX (formerly known as Luke)
This is Max (formerly known as Luke of the Bo and Luke duo). We adopted him on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. He has been a wonderful addition to our family and everyone agrees that he's the cutest puppy they've ever seen.

Our granddaughter is especially happy with the adoption of Max. She has wanted a dog for years, but has not been able to get one of her own due to her mother's allergies and her father's viewpoints on critters in the house. She has already spent two sleepovers with Max and plans on doing many more in the future.

COWBOY
We wanted to let you know how our dog is doing. You called him Cowboy and so do we. Back in July he was the Basset Hound/Black Lab mix. Welllllllllllll! He has gained 10 pounds and loves the freedom of the house. His roommate Oreo watches over him and licks his face when we aren't watching. The kids adore him and he is the talk of the town. That tail is always straight up in the air and wagging. He was meant for this home and we love him dearly. I have a co-worker coming your way for a new pet. They lost their dear dog a few months ago and are ready to love a dog again. I told them of the great work this organization does and they are searching the web site as we speak. God bless. Love, Jody Leyda and family. Hudson,WI.

LILLY (formerly known as Lollie)
What a love! Our Lilly (Lollie when we picked her up at a Petco adoption last summer) is headstrong and loving! She didn't appreciate Sadae, our new Bichon, coming into our house two weeks after her arrival. But, now, they play together for hours! I call them their "reindeer games." Her dermatological problems are gone, and her sight is fine because she gets eye drops every day. She's probably older than we thought in the beginning...maybe 9 or 10. She does a funny dance when she's excited, was completely trained, and has had no "accidents," and lets us know what she thinks. She loves certain people, and shows us by sitting on their feet. She takes naps when her younger "sister" naps, and they sleep together at night!

We do love our girls.

BUCK
Hi! It's me, Buck. I just wanted to tell you how happy I am with my new family. At 5 years old, I've already had 4 different homes, so I'm glad I finally found a place that I get to stay forever.

Its only been four months but I love it here. I have baskets of toys, I get to sleep on the bed and I get treats all the time. My favorite part is that I get spend my weekends at the cabin jumping off the dock into the lake or over on our property swimming in the trout stream. Dad doesn't like that I chase the fish away but he lets me swim anyway. So far I haven't caught any but I'll keep working on it next spring.

When I'm not busy swimming I play with Brook. She's the other dog here but she's not even a year old. She's a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon and she's CRAZY but I'm really patient with her. We wrestle and play all day long together and even when I've had enough I still let her jump all over me. If only we could figure out why Peep the cat doesn't like to play with us.

Its going to be Christmas in two days and I can see that my stocking is stuffed with toys, treats and rawhides. Thanks for helping me find a home to love me. They tell me all the time that I'm the perfect dog and that they can't imagine a life without me. It's nice to be home.

I've gotta go — Mom is standing at the door with some tennis balls. Time to play fetch!

Love Buck

SAFFRON
I adopted Saffron in September 2004. When my German shepherd mix companion of 12 years had passed away in the summer of 2000, I was inconsolable; I didn't think I could get another dog. It took me four years before I could even consider it. When I saw Saffron's picture and read her profile (that she was searching for someone to love), I realized that we might be a match. I went to the adoption and almost didn't find her because she was in the back of the store. When I saw her, my eyes filled with tears. Her intelligence was evident, and despite being a large dog with a deep bark, she did seem vulnerable. She was somewhat subdued for the first two weeks that I had her, but then her lively spirit started to blossom. She's an energetic, affectionate companion. She runs with me every morning at dawn and tries to get me to go farther than our three mile course (I'm working up to another mile slowly!). We run in rain, shine or snow because Saffron insists on it. She especially relishes winter and she likes to jump into snowdrifts and chase snowballs. Saffron has stopped traffic with her good looks — literally, I've had a car stop as we walked by because the driver had to remark on what a beautiful dog she is. People often use the term "gorgeous" when they meet her. Hard to believe that she was quite underweight and unclaimed when Homeward Bound rescued her. Sometimes I ask her, "What's your story, Saffron?" I will never know her history before she came to me, what happened to her, what she may have endured. Whatever the story was, she has somehow maintained an open, trusting temperament. She likes everyone she meets. I took her with me to Nebraska last summer and she won the hearts of my parents who still ask about her when I talk to them on the phone. If she could speak in words, I think this is how she would answer my question about her story: "My story has a lot of twists and turns, and the particulars of it are not all that important. What's important is that one day the Homeward Bound people found me, and although I didn't realize it immediately, my story was about to take a good turn." Many thanks to all of you at Homeward Bound for your dedication, hard work, and compassion.

Kathy Price

SANDY (formerly known as Cybil)
I adopted a 2-yr female German Shepherd dog on November 5, 2005. I was standing in line to adopt a different dog when I asked about Cybil (she was quivering in her kennel). When I heard what her life had been before Homeward Bound, my heart went out to her. I had to look at her. By the way, I checked out the website, www.hua.org, the following Monday (heart-wrenching!), and checking out info on her breed (I've owned a lot of different breeds of dogs from a Toy Manchester Terrier to a Great Dane but never a Belgian Malinois). Sandy was so scared at Pet Adoption Day but had a beautiful face and through her fear, her sweet disposition could be seen if you looked. I have thanked God so many times for bringing her into my life (and my boyfriend has as well). God knows all of our needs and Sandy was it for me! My 11-yr Dobie/Lab mix (adopted from GVAHS 10-1/2 years ago) passed away on Sept 4 and I was very grief-stricken. Sandy has helped me heal a lot from the loss because I needed a dog that needed a lot of love and patience. Sandy is still very fearful but is putting on some weight, the hot spots are totally gone with hair filling in the spots now. Her confidence is building very slowly and she loves my body hugs which help to calm her down. Sandy just decided about 1-1/2 weeks ago to chew on some rawhide knuckles and loves them now. She ate her first pigs' ear two days ago (she wouldn't touch it a few weeks ago). She hasn't learned to play yet. And she is "shy" about going potty outside still if anything is going on (people and cars scare her). I've been working on building trust and routine for her. She is very smart, alert, beautiful, and has an expressive face. She is very tolerant of me "fussing over" her, i.e., brushing her, playing with her tail. She developed an ear infection Thanksgiving morning so she and I visited the GV Emergency Vet Clinic who were great with her (she curled up in a tiny ball under a chair for most of the visit with me on the floor beside her and everyone came down to the floor to exam her). I had to clean her ear and put medicine in her ear for 7-days so I really became "momma". Sandy loves to be petted and lifts her leg so I can pet her "sweet spot". She follows me everywhere! She is particularly scared of men, so it's taking awhile for her to "warm" up to my boyfriend who stops by frequently. I've started socializing her with other people too but I haven't enrolled us into a dog obedience class yet. Sandy and my 11-year old cat, Cali, are working out an "understanding". Sandy has come a long way in nearly 7-weeks but a long way to go still. But I can be patient for the dog that she will be to fully emerge!!

UPDATE: I adopted "Cybil" (now called "Sandy") last November, a beautiful dog but special needs girl (Belgian Malanois Shepard). I bought a "large" kennel the night before the adoption day, fully knowing that I would find a sweetheart to adopt. And I surely did. She still doesn't know what to do with toys but she is learning to "play" of sorts, she is slowly building confidence and is even slowly finding a soft bark, she even gives me a few ever so little "kisses" on the hand. I think that I have narrowed down most of her allergies (and her coat and skin, and reduced body odor, show it) - she's got some airborne allergies, allergic to metal (used in dog collars), several food allergies including and especially rice (even in some amounts). I knew that she was going to need a lot of love to get over being rescued from a puppy mill, I and Homeward Bound did not realize about some of her other special needs like the allergies. I have finally found a vet that I like and is being very helpful to get and try to keep her healthy (she gets so worked up over thunderstorms, fireworks, etc., that she develops giarrdia). But she is such a blessing though. I cannot trust her to not "mess" in the house if unattended and she actually CLIMBs everything if so inclined (I have seen her climb my chain link fence to run back the front door because she wants to go inside before I'm ready - it is the wildest thing to watch a dog "scale" a fence - when she calms down more, she will be a perfect candidate for agility classes).

-Deb

FINLEY & MALIKI
Dear HB,
I am writing in regards to my two precious babies that I have adopted through your organization.

I originally emailed Katie in regards to volunteering with the rescue and fostering dogs. I currently had my own dog who was 9 years old, and she didn't always take to certain dogs. During the couple of months I had fostered, there had been several dogs that had caught my eye, but on December 18th, 2004, I noticed a pointer mix who I immediately fell in love with. Katie had been fostering her for only a couple of days and I had asked Katie more information about her and asked if I could foster her. Katie knew how much I was drawn to her and immediately put on her crate "adoption pending." How well she knows me...this pointer mix came home with me that night and has never left my house.

On January 01st, 2005, I made her mine and signed the paperwork. Finley was seven months old at the time I adopted her. Now, she is 17 months old and LOVES having the other fosters in the house, as well as her older sister and brother (Maliki). I have never changed her name simply because she reminds me of a little boy...she loves to roughhouse with the dogs and even goes potty with a leg in the air. Back in May of 2005, she took a road trip with my dad and me and was an angel! We drove down to Florida and she had the time of her life. She was great in the car and was stopping people left and right. I had several people ask me about her because they thought she was so sweet and beautiful. My dad and I also learned that Finley is deathly afraid of elevators. She tried it once and did okay, but refused to go back in the small, enclosed area. Finley is the baby of the family and is spoiled like crazy (as all of my dogs are). Although she isn't the type of dog to give many kisses, she is my snuggle bug at the end of the day. When it is bedtime, she will curl up right next to me and cuddle with me until the next morning. Finley has come to Saturday adoption events with me and I have even had people ask me if I will put her up for adoption! She is an amazing dog and has stolen my heart from the beginning.

After adopting Finley, I continued to foster dogs and fell in love with a two year old, APBT named Maliki. He was in rough shape, on the skinny side, and had scars all over his body. I ended up taking him home "just to foster." During this time, I had received emails in regards to him as well as people coming to the adoption events to see him, but I was so nervous to let him go. I knew that he had to be mine when I had a hard time bragging to people about him, and on April 16th, 2005, I made it official. Maliki became my dog. I had always wanted an APBT of my own and since I fostered so many dogs, I thought it might be a little hard to find one who could get along with the other dogs. But Maliki is a gem and gets along with everyone he meets. He adores the foster dogs as well as both of his sisters. In fact, he has gotten picked on by some of the other foster dogs that I've had. He was definitely a diamond in the rough though. Most of his scars have healed well, although there are some distinct ones still and he has gained plenty of weight. He ALWAYS sleeps on my pillow and must have his face right by mine when we sleep. He is my baby boy and is spoiled rotten.

I am so grateful to have emailed Katie that November day in regards to fostering. Although I have three dogs of my own, I still foster numerous dogs at a time and usually have 5 or 6 dogs in the house and I couldn't have it any other way. These dogs will reward you tenfold if you give them a little love. Thank you so much Homeward Bound for giving these dogs a second chance at life and bringing them into my life (even my fosters!). Each dog has made some sort of impact on me and everyday, I am thankful that I foster dogs...and have found two of my own special kids.

Thank you,

Tasha, Cheyenne, Maliki, and Finley

OSCAR (formerly known as Ace)
Thought I'd drop you a note and let you know that I am doing great! The nice lady who adopted me in April renamed me Oscar (I was formerly known as Ace). After getting accustomed to my new home and teaching my new family to understand the Jack/Rat Terrier personality, we have come to completely love each other. Sometimes they call me Oscar Bin Laden and say I am their Jack/Rat Terrier "Terrorist". I was the star of my dog obedience class and the favorite of all the instructors due to my quirky personality that made everyone laugh (I was the class clown) and I am SO smart, if I may so say myself. I like to follow my nice lady everywhere like a shadow. I cannot let her leave a room without me - I just do not want her to be lonely. I had a bit of separation anxiety and would cry when left alone but I am getting better. It is just so hard but I have learned that my new family always comes home after a while and that they are not going to leave me forever. I have become very comfortable in my new home...I like sleeping on my boy's pillow at night and if my family goes utside in the yard I curl up in the windowsill like a cat to keep on eye on them. I really like my new man's LazyBoy or their bed when the man isn't around to make me get down. (My nice lady lets me sleep on the bed and my man is starting to give in). My new family found out the hard way that I get really car sick so no more long trips for me, although I do great with short trips and love being in the car. After some socializing I have discovered that I LOVE playing with other dogs, no matter how big they are. I know I am 150 pounds of pure muscle stuck inside a 22 pound body and can wrestle any dog to the ground. I love my new toys, playing chase around the house with anything I can find to run around with especially socks, and going for long runs with my lady. Oh, and I love treats. I get so excited when people come to our door. I shake and wiggle my little butt so fast I almost fall over and I run back and forth and up and down. Thank you so much for bringing me and my nice lady and her family together. I sure have this nice family wrapped around my little paw.

Oscar

DAKOTA
Here is a picture of Dakota relaxing (yawning) where he spends each morning, in my office usually sleeping by my desk. He seems to look forward to going to the office with me in the morning only. He has the freedom to roam about the office where he will walk to the front of the building and look out the windows and then to the back of the building where in the kitchen area is his water bowl, then stop to greet my partner at his desk and then back into my office where I have a bed for him. After a while he seems to get bored and is quick to remind me that the walk or ride home for lunch is fast approaching. I have started to leave him home for a few hours in the afternoon because he communicates to me by curling up on my robe on the living room floor after our lunch that this is where he is most comfortable. Dakota communicates very well what he wants. He is such a great dog and I am so lucky to have found him. He really is the perfect companion for me. He has a nice collection of toys now and I never am concerned about him touching anything he is not supposed to have in the house such as my shoes etc. I did finish his dog house and he peeked inside the door to check it out but has not actually stepped inside. He may never use it because there may never be the need. It did turn out great. The inside is 36in.x 34in., with a traditional peek roof and a triangular plexiglass window just the right height so if he sits up inside the doghouse he can look straight out the window as well as the door. I'll send a picture of it in a separate e-mail. Well my life is definitely better since Dakota came to live with me. Last night I sat on the floor and watched TV while sharing my popcorn with my buddy Dakota. It just doesn't get any better than that.

ROSCO (formerly known as Danny)
We weren't looking for a new dog when we saw Rosco at the Petco in Maplewood in September 2005. We even had to run home to get the check book! On that car ride we thought long and hard about getting another dog, I am so thankful that we did. Rosco is having a great time with his golden retriever girlfriend Lucy and she has never been happier. Of course it wasn't smooth sailing when we first got him, he came with fleas and our golden was in heat. Not the best timing on our part but like I said, we weren't planning on getting a dog that day. I am glad we stuck it out through the somewhat rocky transition period, even though it was challenging, it was definitely worth it. Rosco is a wonderful addition to our family and we love him so much! He's the funniest little comedian. I have never seen a dog flirt before but by god, thats what he does! He can charm the treats out of anyone at the dog park. Rosco weaseled his way into our hearts pretty quick and continues to everyday. Thank you to all the wonderful volunteers at Homeward Bound. Its amazing to me how many truely great pets are discarded and I am so thankful that your group was there to save my little boy.

Thanks again!

MOSHE (formerly known as Lancelot)
Moshe the dog (formerly Lance-a-lot) has turned into quite the great dog. He is perhaps the sweetest dog ever in the history of domesticated pets. He loves attention from people, is playful and has been doing very well in his training. He can sit, go down, heel, and can come when called (sometimes-- we're working on that). He also LOVES other dogs.

So we just wanted to thank you — he's doing great and we love him.

Thanks,
Alex Duffine and Abigail Kline (and Moshe)

DAISY DUKEY
Last May, my daughter and I stopped at Petco in Eagan thinking we were just going to "window shop" for dogs. We had been researching dog breeds for about five months, and we were well read on all the different types and which dogs were and weren't a good fit for us. We thought a Lab would make a good pet, and we wanted a younger dog just because we knew we would like an animal to stay with us for a long time. We held a couple puppies and browsed about, but I was sure we were not going to find the perfect pup on our first day out looking. We were just about to leave when my daughter spotted a fenced off area at one end of the room. There were three dogs in the pen, an adult, and two black mixed puppies. One of the puppies had one brown eye and one blue eye. Neither of the puppies had names yet because they were also new to Homeward Bound. We were told they were brought in that week. My daughter looked at the blue-eyed puppy and said she NEEDED to see that one. She asked the staff if it was a girl, and then the staff encouraged her to walk around with the puppy in the store since it was so busy inside the adoption area. We went out into the store and my daughter plopped herself down on the floor as the puppy proceeded to snuggle into her lap and settle in for a nap. After about ten minutes, I told my daughter it was time to put the dog back into the pen. My daughter looked up at me and said, "But mom, I love her and she is choosing me!" And that is when the little blue-eyed dog became known as our Daisy Dukey. My daughter felt Daisy had chosen her as the person she wanted to live with. She now lives with us and loves to play. Her favorite things to do are going for a run with mom and Kayla around the neighborhood, visiting grandma's house, and hiding under the bed when it is bath time. She graduated from puppy kindergarten this summer, and she is now seven months old and is well-known as the dog with the softest and shiniest fur ever! She loves to play with her favorite friend, Sundae the cat, and she was house trained in no time flat! We are truly blessed that Daisy chose us to go home with that day we stopped into Petco.

HUNTER & TORII
Hi,
This is Hunter (the big black lab). I was adopted by my family in August, at the Eagan Petco. I just love having a permanent home. I get all the hugs and snuggling I want. I am on my best behavior (most of the time). I like to hang around the dinner table and wait for leftovers (or help myself if no one is watching). My family says I'm a great dog. In October they brought home my buddy Torii (the tiny, soft, black kitty), also from Homeward Bound. We were both happy that our family loves black animals. It was hard being overlooked at so many pet adoptions. Torii is a pretty cool cat and says he loves being here. We get along most of the time but when he chases my tail and chews on it he's not so fun. I am on my (almost) best behavior with Torii. Sometimes I chase him and drool on him, but he doesn't mind too much. We agree that we have a nice home. There is always stuff going on and someone is always around to play with or snuggle with. We do miss our friends at Homeward Bound and hope they all find families and homes like we did. I asked Torii to help write this letter but he says it is too cold to write a letter. He is currently sleeping in my kennel. I let him sleep on my pillow during the day but at night it is mine! Here is a picture of me and Torii.

LUCY (formerly known as Melody)
I am a redbone coonhound and was adopted from Homeward Bound in August 2003. When I got out of the van at Maplewood Petco, before I knew it I was being adopted. I was such a good girl in the car because I so desperately wanted a good home. I was only 52 pounds when my new family adopted me. When I got home I was so excited to see a friend to play with (Pogo). I didn't sit down for two straight day's cause I was too busy playing. After I got comfortable in my new home I started to be a naughty girl, I ate my mom's new couch and I barked all the time. Now I only bark when someone walks down MY street and I don't eat my mom's couch anymore. Besides playing with Pogo, I play with my new boyfriend Malcom. We get along really well. We play so hard we have to take long naps together. I love to go for walks and also ride in the car with my head sticking out of the sun roof. I just started learning about raccoons so I now have a raccoon tail that I chase around the yard. I am so glad I found my family because I am happy and healthy. I know weigh 78 pounds. Every time I go out of the house I always get compliments on how beautiful I am, and I love it. My mom and dad say I am such a good girl. I have A LOT of ATTITUDE, but my family loves it. If it wasn't for Homeward Bound I would not have found my happy family more importantly, I now have a boyfriend Malcom and a brother Pogo. I also have two sisters Maggie and Tonii-O who happen to be kitties. Our happy family consists of four humans and five animals and we wouldn't have it any other way.

Lucy's family thanks everyone at Homeward Bound.

NESSIE (formerly known as Breezy)
Homeward Bound-
Hi! This is Nessie (aka Breezy). My new parents renamed me Nessie because I can be a 'monster' sometimes (Nessie the Loch Ness Monster). I just wanted to say hello and let you know that my new family is so awesome! Its a funny story how they found me... My mom and dad went in to PetCo for one thing, and came out with me! They've told me that they were looking for a puppy, and once they took a look, they couldn't leave the store without me!

Let's see... My new family includes my new older brother, Henry (he's the Schn/Poodle mix). He's only 4 in human years and loves to play-fight with me all the time. We play chase at the dog park and he even shares his toys with me. My mom is a groomer, so she's taking great care of my coat and trimming my nails all the time. I'm really a daddy's girl, though, and I love to snuggle with him on the couch and watch Animal Planet (that's our favorite channel).

I just wanted to say thank you to Homeward Bound for taking me to the right place, at the right time so that my new mom and dad could find me. THANK YOU!!

Love,
Nessie

LOLA (formerly known as Coco)
Hi!
I wanted to write in with an update (long overdue) about Lola (formerly Coco) We adopted Lola, Feb 2004 from the Maple Grove Petco Adoption Day. I didn't know what type of dog I was looking for. I just knew that that day, one of them would melt my heart. Well, actually about 30 of them did. So after about 2 hours of walking around and around trying to figure this all out in my head, I looked over to this pen of puppies, and amongst them was this adorable 4month old puppy. I walked over and she immediately jumped up and kissed me. That was it. She was the one. We picked October 7th as her birthday, so she just celebrated her 2nd bday with us. Lola is amazingly sweet, terrifically energized, and the love of my life. She and her big brother Beren are inseparable.- the best of friends. She is incredibly smart and has passed both beginner and intermediate training classes. We are searching for an agility class to start her in as she is FAST and loves to run.

Thank you so much for opportunity to meet her and bring her home forever. We are so very very happy!

Rebecca, Bjorn, and Beren

MAX (formerly known as Chester)
Dear Homeward Bound
Hey, its Max here, (Chester) and I just thought I'd give you an update on my "new" life!

I was found as a stray somewhere in the metro area and adopted from PetCo last Memorial Day weekend (2004). I was patiently sitting in my cage waiting to be adopted when this cute boy kept begging his parents to "check out already." Well that little boy wanted to check me out! I finally got adopted!

It didn't take long for me to settle into my new home. I was completely potty-trained, so I was able to get the run of the house right away. When I am home alone, I typically lie on my fluffy pillow and snooze. When the boys get home from school, it is time to play.

I absolutely love playing with any type of sports ball. I love playing football and running after the Frisbee. The boys are really good at giving me all the exercise that I need. I also love to perform my tricks. My tricks include sit, stay, lay down, and shake! I absolutely love receiving treats! My favorite toys are my squeaky hamburger and pork chop. I could play with those toys all day!

I spend almost every summer weekend at our cabin. Boy, do I get excited to go there! I love going swimming! When I get too hot from the sun, I run down the dock and jump in. I also like spending time with my cousins Ben, Morgan, Toby and Tori. Me and Tori have a special bond, since we were both rescued from Homeward Bound. We all love to chase each other around.

Well, I have to say I have it pretty good. I've got a family who completely adores me and spoils me rotten. It didn't take them long to fall in love with me. They always say how well-behaved I am (except that I am a sock bandit). Thank you Homeward Bound for allowing me to meet the "perfect" family.

Love,
Max Gregor
New Prague, Mn

SIDNEY (formerly known as Monarch)
Hi folks,
Thought I would write a quick note, between playing with my new brother Sam. I am doing GREAT since my adoption on August 6, 2005. My Mom talks to me like I am a little girl even though I am quite grown up. Sam and I have our own bedroom where we play and watch TV while Mom is at work. Lots of chewing bones and toys to play with. Get to go for a nice walk when Mom gets home which I love. I live across a small road from a wild life area so lots of deer, squirrel, and other animal scents. I get so excited that sometimes I cannot stop howling, but that is okay, I am happy. My Mom tells me that I am a very special girl and have made her so very happy and is thankful that her and Sam went to the Maple Grove Petco on that particular Saturday.

There are two little girls next door with an older brother. The minute I am out they dash to play with me; I tell you I love the attention...lots of hugs, kisses, and wonderful loving words that make me feel extra special. Of course they do not forget my new brother Sam, he was here before me.

Because my real birthday is not known I get to celebrate it on October 2nd when Sam has his 2nd. The kids next door will be over for treats, and I hear we get presents, I am hoping for a real nice big chewing toy.

Well I better be going now, it is nap time and I am a little tired from playing tag with my brother.

Oh, by the way, I even got a new name Sidney...aka Monarch as my old friends and foster family at Homeward Bound knew me.

Lots of kisses,
Sidney

DAISY
I adopted Daisy in July 2004, so I'm a bit late in my update. What a great dog! She was really quiet when she first got here, and I think it took her a couple of months to completely "get it" that she was here to stay. But when she did, she became completely attached. She also started "talking" after she became comfortable in her surroundings, and now she does that as much as most dogs bark.

I knew before getting her that she was slow to warm up to people, especially adults, and that is true to this day. She needs to make the inital approach, but after that she is just fine with everyone. However, she loves all kids instantly and will walk right up to them.

Daisy has a lot of energy and loves to go on walks, dig for gophers, and play with any toy that squeaks. She has total roam of the house, complete with a doggie door and fenced-in backyard. Daisy was about 1 1/2 years old when I got her, and anyone that is looking at a young adult or adult dog should realize the virtues about not have to housebreak or potty train a dog! Sh'e's never had an "accident" in the house, and she's never chewed on anything that wasn't meant for her. I don't know how I got so lucky.

Thanks so much to Homeward Bound for doing the great service that you do. These dogs just need a second chance with a family that will take time with them.

Sharon Ritter,
Stillwater, MN

PETE (formerly known as Plain Old Pete)
Last April, I adopted a wonderful friend from your organization who I call Pete. At time of adoption, he was called "Plain Old Pete". I quickly discovered there is nothing "plain" about Pete and the only thing "old" about him is his deliberate approach to doing things... which he is almost zen-like in his approach to life. Pete is now my best friend and I can't wait to get home each night to spend time with him. Of course he knows that we will be visiting the local Eden Prairie dog park, so he is really anxious for me to change clothes to get going. While at the park, Pete enjoys the company of the other dog owners as much as visiting with the other dogs.

Try as I might, I haven't been able to teach Pete to "fetch". When I throw balls, he looks at me with an expression of "you get it and I'll wait right here". I've even got down on all fours with the ball in my mouth to demonstrate proper ball technique. Once he actually picked up the ball when I rolled it right to him. He quickly dropped the ball as if he remembered that was not his style.

Pete loves to walk... and walk... and walk some more. He enjoys a good rawhide chew and goes into coma when I brush him out. Pete is a gentle soul and is very trusting, except when it comes to having his tail touched... although he does allow me to brush his tail on a very limited basis... but he is watching my every move. He also likes to have his teeth "brushed", but I suspect it has something to do with the chicken flavored tooth paste I'm using.

Now that Pete and I are best buddies, it is hard to imagine not having him in my life. Thank you Homeward Bound for taking in this loving creature and allowing me the opportunity to "find" Pete and make him one of the family.

Mike Komomua,
Eden Prairie, MN