Southern Hope Humane Society

We adopted Haley in July of 2006 and it was one of the happiest days of our lives. Haley is the best puppy anyone could ever ask for; she is a calm and very happy-go-lucky pup. Haley has brought to our house a playful attitude, which has helped with our older less active dogs. They have learned, that when Haley is coming, it is time to play !!! Haley has brought such love and joy into our lives we could never imagine life without her. Thank you for trusting us enough to adopt our little girl.

Jeanie and Joe Croteau

Hi Stacey,
Just wanted to let you know that Ollie is doing great. He is happy, healthy and plays very well with Maggie. He's up to 16 pounds now (he eats like a little horse)...I've never seen such a good-natured puppy! I've attached some pics. Maggie taught him how to dig and those 2 spend a lot of time perfecting their skills.

Take care,
Amy

Dear Stacey, Just giving you an update on Girlfriend. She is now fully adjusted and a little fluff ball of energy! She is about 3.5 pounds and a little piggy! She loves to eat! She enjoys running around and is potty trained inside and outside! She is the smartest dog and is spoiled rotten! Girlfriend also gets really jealous! My daughter was holding my cat once and she got so jealous! She smacked her little paws on the ground and wouldn't stop barking until my daughter put her down! Speaking of barking, she hardly ever barks! She only barks if she is left alone or sees another dog! There is one problem though. She only has one friend! It's so hard to find a playmate for her that won't squish her! Our neighbor has a little pomeranian, however, and they love to play together! I've attached a couple of pictures of Girlfriend!
Enjoy!
The Savidge's

I am so happy in my new home with two of my kittens Lilly & Mandy (Miranda). We love to spend the mornings playing with each other before settling down to sleep for most of the day. We take turns bathing each other. When Mom tries to pet me we are usually interrupted by Mandy or Lilly or both wanting their share of attention. I am still quite shy but have come around more as I have gotten adjusted in my new home. One of my favorite places is under a big round table with a tablecloth that goes to the floor. It makes a nice place to nap or if I want to spy on those passing by I can do that & jump out at them. I also like to get under the sofa & there I am usually left alone even by Mandy & Lilly. I can really take a good nap there. I am eating pretty good now that I am settled in & am doing great.

I just wanted to report to you how things are going.

Love,

Quinn

I am the proud owner of two little Shih Tzu's thanks to Linda and SHHS.

Barkley suffers from an old back injury, which has caused serious arthritis in his rear hips. He had also lost much of his hair because of gross matting and flea infestation, all from neglect. Now, Barkley's hair has grown back and he is a handsome little fellow. Further down the road he may require hip replacement surgery to correct his arthritic condition but he is not hampered by his physical limitations and is a normal little dog with all the canine curiosities. He is my little redneck who prefers a full laundry basket to a dog bed. I wouldn't think of changing him in the least.

Barney was a little fellow who desperately wanted to be loved and didn't know how to ask for it. He was protective of his small world and trusted no one. With attention and love, he has developed trust and follows me almost constantly. He has become more outgoing and is a precious little dog. Barney covets my time and attention. He is the sweetest little guy who is absolutely devoted to me.

Without Linda and Southern Hope, my world would be devoid of these little creatures. Even with their help, the saddest part is that prospective new owners fail to consider the animal being adopted. These little creatures have potentially lived in a world of constant turmoil and abuse. All they need is a little love and understanding. They are not perfect and may not live up to initial expectations, but they respond to a loving and caring home that offers them the security that they may never have had. Look past any initial imperfections, the real perfection is the unconditional love and devotion that comes later. Please don't fail these little creatures and the wonderful folks at Southern Hope who work so hard to give these little creatures a second chance. Our special thanks to Linda and Southern Hope Humane Society.

Barkley, Barney and John Yanchick
Newport News, VA

We just thought we would let you know how happy we are. We have the greatest home & are being spoiled rotten. That is normal, isn't it?

Mom had a hard time taking a picture of me because I was playing so much. She had to catch me as I settled down to rest. Lilly loves to get in this basket that Katie found. It used to belong to one of her dolls. It is a great place to sleep but it won't be long before she is too big for it.

We have so many toys to play with. Dad bought us a new toy last night & he let us play with it a long time but had to take it down because we get so excited we don't know when to stop playing. It is a fuzzy mouse on the end of an elastic string that hangs from the door facing. It moves so much & we jump & try to get it. It is so much fun.

We are getting plenty of loving & petting & eating well.

Love,

Mandy (Miranda) & Lilly

Raja (that's him with his brother Jackson, the Schipperke) had his first obedience class last Tuesday and he did very well. He'll do anything for a treat, hee. He learned to sit via hand signal, look at me, touch it, and leave it. He's got most of them down pat, he's very smart. He's still very clumsy, lol, and provides a lot of comic relief with his 'spills' around the house. He hasn't had an accident in the house in over two weeks. He sleeps with us at night now, and doesn't get up until we do. He is the most laid back, good-natured dog I have ever met and we are so thankful that his other adoption didn't work out.

Michelle

I just wanted to say thank you to Linda for helping me get the 2 best dogs ever. I got Bailey the lhasa first and he has been like a real person more than a dog. After a couple months, I realized that he should have a playmate and when Linda sent a picture of Bo to me, I fell in love again! I went to look at him and it was a definite match for me and Bailey. I think what you all do to help the animals is wonderful and appreciate all that you have done for me. Thanks again to Linda, who has been a super person, for helping me find the right dogs for me and each other.

Craig V.

Just wanted to touch base and tell you how much we love Queenie (Rosie). She was the perfect addition to our family and she has settled right in to the life of leisure she enjoys at our home. This picture was taken July 4th as she enjoyed her morning on the screen porch and her play time with the wand. Notice she has adjusted well to being fed regularly too..... HA!

Nita, Sylvie, and Dixie (Rosie's sister)

It has been about a month since we adopted Barley (previously Prince). We finally got around to taking some good pictures of him so I wanted to forward them on to show you how well he is doing in his new home. He has been a wonderful dog. My wife and I love him very much. We're taking him to obedience class right now and he seems to like it and he is a good student. He knows a few tricks and behaviors. Overall, he is a great dog and seems to be adjusting well. We want to thank you for all that you all do to get these stranded animals good homes. We feel blessed to have Barley in our life.

Thanks, Brian & Gina M.

We are so happy to have Molly. When we first got her, her leg was still tender and she was resting a lot. However, now she is already running great and even jumping (if we have a treat!) She has learned "sit" and she is learning "stay". She has really blessed us and helped make Shelby (our Border Collie) more friendly. We have learned that she is quite the little digger, so we are still working on that one, but we are so blessed and happy -- thank you for all you've done.

Meredith, Josh, Shelby & Molly

Hi Stacey,

Remember me? Chyna. Just thought I'd drop you a line to let you know how I'm doing. My Mom and Dad think I'm a wonderful dog. I hear them telling people that so it must be true. I went to the Vet April 10th for my final heartworm treatment. I had to stay there for the day in case I had a bad reaction, but I was fine and got to go home at 4:30. I was glad about that! I like my two sisters. Megan is fairly old and quiet and doesn't play much, but Misty is full of it. We play hide and seek and tug of war but she runs under the bed or couch and I can't get her so we just yip at each other. Makes Mom and Dad laugh. We usually go for walks after dinner and I get to walk in the creek. It feels good on my feet. Oh, I forgot, the Vet examined me and said I was in good health and had a good strong heartbeat.

Mom and Dad sometimes call me "Her Highness" and the picture should explain that.

Mom or I will write again soon!!!

We recently lost one of our cats to kidney disease. Sniffles was adopted 9 years ago and his passing left a huge hole in our hearts. We knew no one could replace Sniff, however, after a couple of months without him in our home, we wanted to give another cat the chance to enter our home and become a playmate for Sniff's sisters. We adopted a Siamese that we now call Mocha, because he is the color of a mocha cappuccino. Mocha has been with us for a little over a month and is fitting in nicely. Mocha has helped the spirit of our home tremendously. He is so hyper and funny, (not quite as funny at 2:00 a.m) but he still keeps us in stitches. He has adopted my husband Darren as his buddy, and they are always together. Thanks for giving us another best friend to have in our family.

Love,

Kim and Darren C.

Hi Stacey:

I've had sugar for one week now. I couldn't ask for a nicer dog. She has adjusted beautifully and has worked right into a routine. She charms everyone she meets. I feel like I've had her forever. I wish I knew who had the dog before so I could tell her how happy she is. Thank you again for choosing such a fine dog for me.

Joan

It has been about 2-1/2 weeks since we brought Cody home. He was very affectionate from the first day, but even more so now. He's very funny! We have decided the best way to describe the way he walks and his personality is "eeorye" from Winnie The Pooh.

At first, Cody didn't play too much. As of the first of this week, he runs all over the place. He plays, plays, plays!! Cody also LOVES to go for car rides.

Cody and our other two, Shena and Muffin, all get along great with each other. I see them lying next to each other and kissing each other. They all go out together and seem to wait on each other. It's very cute! Shena and Muffin have welcomed Cody with open paws!! In fact, Cody has won all our hearts!

Thank you!!!!

Dina

(Shena, Muffin, Cody)

This handsome blue-eyed boy is Cecil; we adopted him in December, and he has been such a joy. He likes his groceries, so he has filled out his lanky frame since he moved in. He also loves to snuggle and will follow a family member from room to room just being companionable. He's calm and unflappable most of the time, but occasionally we have to step aside as he races through the house chasing imaginary dragons. We are so glad we brought this beautiful, sweet boy home with us. He is a delight.

Linda T.

Annie is such a great girl and aside from a little separation anxiety (that appears to be getting better) seems to be flourishing here. She has already put on some weight and just like Savannah, loves her greenie at night. She and Savannah are a hoot to watch. They love to play with the frisbee and tennis balls, though Annie tries to hog all the toys for herself.

Both girls are lying on the floor next to me right now and I can't imagine life without them. Thanks for letting Annie adopt me, she has been a welcome addition to the family and a great playmate for Savannah

Bonnie

John picked up Dottie for a day-long get-acquainted outing, which happily, was deemed a huge success. The next hurdle was compatibility between Dottie and our other dog, Webster. They very politely tolerated each other for several days before beginning to play together. It’s been a regular circus act ever since.

Dottie is out and about daily with John, or to my office—where she loves being the center of attention. Her Dalmatian heritage shows true, as she likes to accompany John and his horse Nathan on their rides.

None of this would have been possible without the insight of Dottie’s foster mom and her intense desire to find loving homes for her spotted dogs.

Thank you for everything,
John and Margaret
Webster and Dottie

I thought you might like to see a picture of my Buster that I adopted from you. He's much more affectionate than when I got him - still doesn't like to be picked up but loves attention. The bed he's in is on my desk (good thing he's not spoiled).

Kathy R.

Clayton was 21 years old when his family decided they didn't want him anymore and brought him to the vet to be euthanized. He was diabetic, controlled with a special diet, not insulin. The vet office contacted SHHS. He has been living with Lindsey and her family ever since (happy and eating well and spoiled rotten.) Please give the older cats a chance too--they have so much love to give.

Dear Stacey,

Well, Momma's picture is a little blurry, but you can see that I graduated from that.......that school! Stacey, it was terrible! They made me learn how to do all kinds of dumb things like sit, stay, heel, and come. All things that MOM and DAD want me to do. Not things that I want to do! Mom is even talking about sending me to graduate school!
Help Stacey!

Hannah

Stacey, as you can see, Hannah survived school very well indeed, despite her protestations to the contrary. We'll keep you updated on our little "scholar's" progress.

With our heartfelt thanks,

Gordon, Ret, and even, Hannah

Please join us for
The Ongoing Adventures of Julio and Randy in France

WHEN LOVE IS DESTINY—DON’T FIGHT IT
RANDY AND JULIO ON THE COTE D'AZUR
IT'S ALL ABOUT THE GRASS!!
A QUICK NOTE FROM THE COTE D'AZUR
JULIO ON THE RIVIERA
JULI'S BIG ADVENTURE

KiKi and I adopted each other last Saturday. She is the sweetest little bundle of fur. I just wanted to thank you for the wonderful work you all do and to let you know that we are getting along just great. She will have me trained to her liking very soon.

Thanks again,

Sally M.

I wanted to let you know how things are going here with Scully. We are taking obedience classes at Pet Smart and they are going well. Scully already knows most of the stuff we have been learning but it is another chance for him to get out and socialize which is most important (and he loves riding in the car anyway).

We are thinking about moving to a bigger place next year and we have been talking about it a lot and are going to seriously consider getting another dog. We love Scully and would love for him to have a doggie friend at home. We will probably be in touch when that time comes closer because we liked adopting and would go that route again.

Hope all is well!
Elizabeth and Daniel

As you can see she is ready for bed and how come we aren't....

All's well on the home front, but Maya has put on a few pounds for the winter. When the weather is better we will be taking much longer walks. Three blocks out and three blocks back just isn't enough for her to lose the additional weight. Brenda and I walk the malls at night, but we can't take Maya along. She stares out the same front window Rigby did, and barks at anything that moves. At times she will chase the cat, but only when Eleanor comes to her end of the bed or while she is on the couch next to us. Eleanor is huge and as solid as a rock. She must weigh 18 lbs by now. She sleeps at the foot of our bed and Maya won't let her any closer then that.

Ron, Brenda, Maya, and Eleanor

When my husband and I lost our dalmatian of 15 years, I thought I would spend months grieving and healing before I could think about getting another dog. But the silence in the house was excrutiating. And the pain of a home without that lively energy and spirit a dog freely gives was unbearable.

Out of all the dogs we read about and looked at (on the net) and met (in shelters) we saw one dalmatian that touched our hearts the most. Her name was Sweet Pea. We couldn't stop thinking and talking about her eyes. The text on the website accurately described them as "haunting".

Within a day of filling out the application, a woman called us and told us Sweet Pea's story. We didn't waste a minute and asked, no begged, her to bring Sweet Pea over as soon as possible to let us meet her.

It was love at first site for the three of us (my husband and I and Sweet Pea). Within a week she was living with us in her new home, awaiting the arrival of her sister to be, a rescued racing greyhound we named Sydney. We renamed Sweet Pea "Pepper" to match her quite spicy, mischievous personality and numerous black spots.

It has been 5 months and though the dalmatian we lost can never be replaced, Pepper and Sydney bring us such joy that our healing has been easier. The two of them get along fantastically. Not a day goes by in which we don't laugh at them playing and stealing toys from each other.

Margie D.

Dear Stacey,

Ret and Gordon are still being mean to me. First they put me in jail, like I told you about in my last e-mail. Next they had someone mean cut off all my fur (almost), and now comes the last straw...they have sent me to school!!!!!

Stacey, its terrible! They make me sit, they make me stay, they make me sit, then stay, and then walk! They can't make up their minds! Who knows what's next!

Love,

Hannah

Despite what she says, Hannah is doing well....30 lbs now, and faster than a speeding bullet. Thanks again for all your help.

Warmly,

Gordon and Ret

Peeking out from the "hamster box" under the deck is Caeli. We adopted Caeli (formerly known as Kaylee) in November 2001 to be Pooky's sister. They're best friends and couldn't be happier. They get to play in the yard all day when it's nice outside and take trips to the dog park across the street to visit all the neighborhood dogs too. Caeli was really distrustful and shy when we adopted her. She's come full circle and now is just as happy and outgoing as her sister! She loves to meet people and other dogs and make friends with everybody. Thanks Southern Hope for what you do for the doggies and us!

Chris D. & Annette V.

Spirit... now named Dixie... is doing really well! We're enrolled in obedience classes and she's doing REALLY well. She's a pro at "sit" and "down" and even "leave it." She's really come out of her shell now and we spend lots of time at the off-leash dog walk at Piedmont Park. I even take her to Doggie Daycare (yes, Doggie Daycare!) once a week to help with all that energy she has and they say she is the best, most fun-loving dog there. The two of us have really bonded and she's at my side all the time. Thanks so much for helping bring this little bundle of energy into my life. She really is a sweetie-pie and I think this was a really, really good fit.

Elizabeth P.

Clyde has adjusted quite well thank you, as you can see from the pictures. The other cats are still a little nervous, but they are older and slowly getting use to him. He's keeping them young and my wife and daughter are having a lot of fun with Clyde. Thanks for letting us have Clyde. He will have a good home. Is he part pig? He sure eats like one!

Norm, Cyndi and Roxanne

Harry was slightly confused and timid the first few days. But now that he sleeps in my bed, he and the Yorkie have become good friends and sleeping mates. He seems like the happiest little dog around. I had a few sweaters and he has enjoyed them over the cold spell. He is showing his loyalty to me by sitting on my lap nightly and snapping at anyone who comes near us, be it my Yorkie or my boyfriend. He understands the routine now and is even playful. He fetches and loves tug of war. Harry and the Yorkie would like me to be a stay at home mom but since I go home for lunch three times a week they can tolerate my absence. My boyfriend swore he would not befriend a Chihuahua and now Harry snuggles up to him in bed and rubs up against him like a cat in the evenings. Needless to say Harry fits in PERFECTLY!

I am absolutely thrilled with Harry! Thank you so much for sharing him.

Keep an eye out for any more sweet little Chihuahua. You never know when you could need an extra.

Kay H.

Happy New Year!

We apologize for being so tardy with pictures of Jewel & Peanut. They are doing just great and we sure are spoiling them.

Will send more later.

Doug & Kris

We adopted Daisy summer 2002 and just wanted to let you know how much we love her and what a beautiful girl she has become. She has come a long way in the last 4 months, both mentally and physically! She and her brother Cecil (our boy rescue) get along so well and bring each other and us so much joy! She is a good girl and we love her dearly. We take Cecil and Daisy everywhere we go!! Please know that she is being well cared for and doted on constantly. She is VERY SMART, VERY SPOILED, and VERY HAPPY!

Thanks again for what you do!
Pattie

We adopted a 1 year old male Boston Terrier from you at PetsMart about a year and a half ago. His name is Kirby. I almost gave him back because he was so unruly and destructive. However the good news is that Kirby has made a complete turnaround. He is a wonderful pet and companion. I have been taking him to dog agility classes and he is a star! He is with us almost 24 hours a day, sleeps in the bed, goes to work with me sometimes and travels with us on our vacations. He has brought us so much joy and love. Thank you for everything that you do.

Sincerely,

Ronnie and Michael S.