The GA 38 arrived in MAGSR’s care in early/mid January 2019 and over the past two months, their transformation has been nothing short of amazing. These 38 broken souls knew nothing but a life of filth, hunger, and abuse. Their eyes were filled with the look of fear, emptiness and uncertainty. They cowered in the corners of their runs and tried to be as far away from humans as possible and MAGSR volunteers knew they had quite a challenge ahead to right the wrongs of their past prior to arriving in MAGSR's care. MAGSR volunteers stepped up & took on the challenge head on. And now, two months later, through the endless work of dedicated volunteers that have selflessly given their time, patience and love, these beautiful creatures have begun to meet us with tail wags, lean-ins as we walk with them, and most importantly, where once there was emptiness and fear in their eyes, it’s clear those memories have been replaced with hope and even a bit of curiosity. Their wounds have healed, their bellies are full and they have learned that all humans aren’t so bad. They are greeting us at the front of their kennel runs now eager for treats and walks. All of them have learned to walk on a leash and we are beginning some basic obedience with them such as "sit", "heel" and “watch me.” They are now used to being handled regularly for normal things such as baths, getting their weights taken, and taking their monthly preventatives. Best of all, volunteers are seeing their unique personalities and social side come out with other dogs. Just a few months ago, they were all fighting for the same food and water and ability to stay alive but today, many have completely let down their guard and are comfortable enough to engage in play and/or positively interact with other dogs. All  of these dogs have shown us how intelligent and resilient they are and have made significant strides in their road of rehabilitation. They are ready for the next chapter of their journey and we hope you may be part of  their story.

My foster mom and dad told me that it’s time for me to do some bragging. I’m not entirely sure what that means but I’m going to give it a try. A couple of weeks ago, a MAGSR volunteer told me I was a lucky girl because I was heading into a foster home. I wasn’t so sure that that sounded like a good idea but, wow was I wrong. My foster family has furry siblings of the big and small variety. The kitties are incredibly bossy but, I know they just want to make sure I understand the rules. I absolutely love the dogs in the household. They make me feel confident and are teaching me the ropes. My favorite dog in the house has even started teaching me how to play! Who knew that living in a home could be so much fun? I’m told that I am crate trained at this point and that I am making huge progress with this thing called housebreaking. It took me a few weeks to get the hang of the living in a household; however, I’m a pro at the stairs at this point and I’m getting really good at going in and out of doors. Most household sounds are becoming second nature with fewer and fewer things causing me to jump. Although I am still getting a little nervous in the neighborhood, especially when kids are running around, my foster family says I am doing really well. I tend to stay really close to my handler and only pull when I have a small freak out. They tell me that typically those things happen when new items or unknown people are encountered. There are just so many new things to adjust to. My foster family says that all my progress means that it’s time to start learning some commands. I’m not sure what that entails, but I let you know how it goes. 

Over the last few months, Milla has continued to reveal more of her goofy, playful, and inquisitive personality to her foster family. Milla wakes up most mornings ready to head out on a walk and bounce around with her foster fur siblings. She knows how to heel and sit, but is often so excited when the neighborhood is quiet that she needs a few reminders. Milla typically spends a few hours a day bopping about the house, playing with toys, and following her foster mom around. Although Milla enjoys being busy, she does know how to chill out. Actively seeking out the most comfortable places in the house, Milla loves to lounge on the couch or in a bed. Surprise sounds and quick movements continue to startle Milla, but she is recovering quicker with her foster family. Although she hides her playful personality from strangers, Milla is a fun-filled pup once she is comfortable. Due to her history, accepting new people and finding comfort in their presence is a slow process for Milla. She will require a family that is patient, structured, and calm. This environment will help Milla adjust to her new surroundings over time. If Milla sounds like the right dog for your family, please inquire about her today. 

Chase has been doing extremely well in his foster home, he appears to be house broken as he has not had any "accidents" although we keep close watch on him and provide scheduled (and guided) potty breaks.  He has taken to his crate well and whimpers a bit when first put in for the night but settles down.  It appears he has never been in a home with stairs as he was uncertain & scared when confronted with them but he got over that quickly.  He craves attention and falls in your lap if you sit on the floor.  We've started basic obedience training and he is eager to engage during his lessons.  He gets along well with our resident GSD and he loves playing with her but we're not sure about cats (I've not seen much of a prey drive in him either).  He's going to make a great family pet.