I do not remember my early life. I was found abandoned in the streets of Aurora in January of last year and was picked up by animal control, placed in a very small cage (not good for a big dog) and left until my owner claimed me. Unfortunately no one ever came for me so after a few weeks I was taken to a rescue shelter where they tried to help me adjust and find me a home. After several weeks I was asked to leave the shelter because my time was up and I was taken in by “ADOPT”.

Being abandoned and kept from regular contact with humans and dogs for three months had made me a little challenged and socially dysfunctional. But the staff and volunteers at ADOPT made me feel very welcome. It had been a long time since anyone had rubbed my ears and belly. They provided me with food, walks, a large warm kennel, discovered I had a passion for chasing tennis balls and helped me adapt to being with humans and other animals again.  They even found me my forever home and I celebrated one year on March 31^st.

In this past year, it was discovered I had Hip Dysplasia (the vet believes I was hit by a car) and to cap it all I am allergic to grass, rag week and just about everything that grows in the forest preserves. But because the Counselors at ADOPT found the right forever home for me, my allergies are under control, I can run again.

I am going to be walking in the “Making Strides for Strays” on Sunday May 2^nd to raise funds for dogs like me that can be rescued by ADOPT and not have to cross the rainbow bridge earlier than we need to. ADOPT is a No KILL shelter and is desperately in need of funds. I know things are tight at the moment but if you can see it in your heart to pledge $20 or $30 to help ADOPT then you will be saving a life and helping pets like me.  Thank you for reading my story and thank you for any help you can give.