A Wish Come True

Sage made her way to HHDR from Alabama in October 2016, via our rescue partner Save A Stray. Many were charmed by Sage’s spunky personality and adorable combination of Beagle and Bassett Hound features, and she was quickly adopted. Soon, however, Sage found herself back at HHDR due to being naughty – she was a bit of an escape artist who could not be contained by a crate, and she did not hesitate to help herself to food from the table and the trashcan. Sage needed an active family who would take her on frequent walks and hikes to burn off her energy and keep her out of trouble.

After a couple months at HHDR, Sage wrote a letter to Santa expressing her deepest wish for a forever family. Sage was adopted in January 2017, joining her new Mom, Dad, and Bassett Hound sister Gracie! We are happy to share a pupdate about this cute low-rider. Sage took to her new family right away. She loves her sister Gracie, who seemed to help her settle down and behave. They especially enjoy playing in the snow in their large backyard. They attend doggie daycare regularly, where they hang out with many other Bassett Hound friends. They also enjoy hikes in the Adirondacks with Mom and Dad. Sage’s family returned to HHDR in December 2017 to adopt their third pup, Janie. While not a Bassett Hound, Janie fit right in with her new sisters as you can see.

We appreciate your support in helping dogs like Sage find a “new leash on life!

From Homeless to Homeland Security

Jeremiah and Norton made their way to HHDR in late January 2018. Back in Alabama, their future in the overcrowded shelter system seemed bleak. Fortunately, they were rescued by our partners Save A Stray and given a one-way ticket to Central New York for second chance!

In February, Jeremiah and Norton’s potential to make a difference in the world was recognized – they were wanted by the Office of Fire Prevention and Control. HHDR was honored to donate these two dogs to the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services. Now we are so proud to share a special pupdate about these amazing boys!

Both dogs were paired up with a handler for 8 weeks of rigorous training (over 300 hours!) at the New York State Academy of Fire Science. The dog-handler teams learned search techniques and how to detect ignitable liquids commonly used in arson. The handlers learned about canine health and behavior, while the dogs were exposed to boats, helicopters, and other unique environmental settings they will face in their new jobs.

Both dogs and their handlers graduated from the academy on May 4, receiving their Canine Accelerant Detection Certification. They are truly VIPs – Very Important Pups – as they were congratulated by the Governor of New York! They have very serious jobs to do, including helping law enforcement and fire investigators solve arson cases. Read more about the dogs’ extensive training and important work here.

The Journey of Rescue Dogs Are Tales We Love to Tell

Welcome!  We are very excited to share this new blog with you.  This blog is dedicated to the story of rescue dogs . . . . specifically, the Journey of Rescue Dogs.  There are so many aspects to a rescue dog’s life and this is our spotlight for all of it.

The journey of a rescue dog can take many turns before they each find their own forever home.  Their journeys can start many places . . . . maybe it starts with a concerned neighbor, an overwhelmed owner, the police department, a veterinarian or a shelter worker or volunteer.  But regardless of how their rescue story begins, once they’re rescued, they embark on a journey toward a better life.

We believe in the potential of rescue dogs and look forward their happy endings and how they’ve enriched the lives of those around them.  Our job is to match each dog who enters our doors with the perfect human situation that is the right fit for each and every one.  When this happens, wonderful things unfold.  This is our space to share those stories with you. Thank you.