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Take a Chance. Adopt.

Take a Chance. Adopt.
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July 24, 2025
in Humane Education Column
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By: Judy Hamontre, AVHS Vice Chair

My name is Gracie. I used my most pleading eyes, put a paw on my mom’s lap and whimpered a bit, begging – not for food but to “speak” about a concern I have.

I am sad because some dogs have now been at the Ark-Valley Humane Society (AVHS) even longer than I was. It is a good place, and everyone there was good to me and loved me. They helped me trust people again.

However, living in a shelter is not like having your own loving home, where you are part of a family.

I know I had a few behaviors that required some extra attention, but I have learned and try to be a good girl. Mom praises me when I am. She loves me and makes me feel safe. She speaks softly to me, plays with me, pets me, takes me on walks, and brushes me. She seems to enjoy all our special times together as much as I do. Together, we are bonded and happy. We share love. Life is good.

I know Indie, Elvis, Kida, and so many others at AVHS are ready to make some human just as happy as I make my mom.

Yes, there may be some adjustments. They may still have some insecurities, but I just know that with a little extra time, understanding, patience, and love they will become special companions, too.

If you are not able to adopt a dog, there are still many ways that you can help a dog like me. You can sign up to become an AVHS volunteer and choose specifically to work with shelter dogs. You can volunteer any day that works with your schedule and for any amount of time. You can walk dogs, play with dogs, and/or create dog enrichment. Anything you would like to do makes a big difference in a shelter dog’s life!

You can also open your home to a shelter animal by becoming a foster parent. This is great for people who want to care for dogs, but can only commit to a small period of time. The shelter works with your schedule and provides guidance for animal placement that is suited to your lifestyle. AVHS also provides all the food, toys, and whatever else is needed to care for a shelter animal in your home. You provide a break from the kennel environment and a loving temporary space for a homeless pet!

An amazing foster gave me a chance, and that led me to my mom who gave me my forever home.

If you are unable to adopt, volunteer, or foster, you can also help shelter animals by donating. Donations come in many forms such as monetary donations and in-kind donations. If you have any extra pet food that isn’t expired and is in its original container, that also helps towards the care of homeless pets! There are many ways you can change a shelter animal’s life.

Please come to the shelter and meet these dogs. Spend some time with them. Get to know them, and let them get to know you. You may find yourself a new best buddy who each day warms your heart and makes your life richer. At least that is what Mom tells me after saying, “Gracie, I love you so much.”

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