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.

Hello!  I’m Darlington and I can’t wait to share my updates with you!  It’s been so much fun exploring new places and I have really enjoyed living in the country.  When my foster mom lets me play on the long metal line, I wag my tail, smile, and run with joy.  My favorite adventure so far has been a morning hike by the river.  I jumped right in and had a ball swimming and splashing in the water.  My furry brother showed me how to fetch sticks from the water and that looked like a great game, but for now I just watch and stay close to him.  I did great walking calmly by bikers, runners, and many other dogs.  When I am outdoors, I am in my element.  I’m great in the car and ready to go any time.  I only wish that outdoor fun in the mud did not have to be followed by a bath – that just makes no sense, and I have done my best to communicate that.  Busy places with crowds of people are not my favorite but I am learning.  Meeting people 1-on-1 is better. I am OK with children at a distance, but am still uncertain about meeting them. At home, I am proud of my perfect accident-free record.  The house is great but I am still shy, and when I feel insecure, I like to go to my safe space (crate).  I don’t mind sleeping there calmly.  I keep hearing “sit” and “come” and am still unsure about those, but I know that when I come to my foster parents on my own, I get lots of pets and praise and I really like that.  Treats don’t motivate me but I am bonding with my humans and appreciate their affection.  I like to watch my furry brother and learn from him too.  I’ve been told that I am a very sweet girl.  My neighbors come out when they see me walking by to say hello and often tell me that I am lovely.  I am just being me.  If you would like to meet me, please let MAGSR know! 

Darlington is settling in to her foster home nicely. When first taken home, her heart was pounding and she was trembling. Thanks to her foster parents and the resident dog, taking is slow and easy won her over. While in foster, Darlington has been a perfect house guest, sweet and gentle. She’s learning about routines and long walks. Darlington is voluntarily looking to her foster parents for attention which demonstrates the progress she’s making. Darlington’s foster parents are starting to see her playful side, and she has been chill, calm and snuggly in her foster home; however, she still remains a high flight risk. If interested in Darlington, and have the patience and time to help her adjust and learn from her horrible past, ask to meet her. 

Ms. Darlington is truly an amazing house guest and wonderful company!  It's been wonderful to see her playful side come out, especially with her furry brother. She knows "sit" and is learning the "come" and "stay" commands.  She also knows to sit and wait by any entrance and let her person go through first.  Her leash-walking skills are excellent in a familiar neighborhood.  Busy and crowded spaces still make her anxious, but the more adventures she goes on the more comfortable she gets.  This smart girl responds very well to training and direction from her person and is working very hard to learn how to be a confident and comfortable dog.  Darlington is distinctive. She has the sweetest and most gentle nature you may ever find. As with any of the Georgia dogs, trust takes time. But when established, she and her adoptive family will experience daily joy together.

Sweet Darlington was returned due to no fault of her own. Her foster family did not hesitate to welcome her back into their home. She’s a wonderful girl. There are a few things we learned about helping her successfully transition to a new home. Darlington’s entire life included the presence of other dogs, which seems to be an essential factor to her wellbeing. In the foster home, she quickly grows attached to her furry sibling(s) and follows them everywhere. The absence of another dog in her adoptive home likely contributed to her becoming withdrawn and stressed. Darlington will be well matched with a family that has a mature and calm dog that she can “mirror” and follow.  Although she has come a long way in gaining confidence, she is still shy and can easily become fearful. But, when she bonds with her person and establishes trust, she relaxes and follows their lead in any environment. Darlington is an incredibly gentle and sweet dog, but she is also delicate and sensitive, and trust and confidence do not get built overnight. Darlington asks for patience, calm and confident direction, positive praise, and sincere commitment, which are relatively small requests, given the great potential she has and the charming company she readily provides.