I've found my furever family!

When Oakley first came to SPIN, he was in rough shape —overgrown, matted, sore and abandoned by the people who had used him to make money. Still, he wagged his tail through it all.

When Steve picked Oakley up even he was shocked. Steve sees a lot, but Oakley. Poor dog. He was rushed to Dr. Michelle Lynn who shaved him down under anesthetic. And then he was whisked into the welcoming arms of SPIN.

Oakley spent his first few days with John at BlackDog Pet Resort. We find that dogs like Oakley who have lived all their lives surrounded by dogs, will respond to the love and kindness of humans faster in the company of stable and happy dogs. Oakley was hopeful that humans would finally treat him with softness and love, and we did not disappoint.

Oakley then moved to serial foster Mom, Lesia whose dogs taught him about living in a house and how to snuggle on a couch. We did adopt Oakley out prior to this, but his fears and anxieties heightened after this, yet another change and we recommended he be brought back to Lesia.

Lesia continued to work with Oakley and help him be comfortable with change. It took time, but slowly he began to relax. Then Marianne put up her hand to adopt. This time we knew what it would take to help. Lesia and Marianne helped Oakley become familiar with what would be his new home. Taking their time and over several visits. Lesia also created expectations with Marianne. Despite all they were doing, Oakley was going to have a hard time but eventually he would settle.

Sure enough. On his first night he howled. He howled at the loss of all that he knew. But wait! It wasn't a loss of all that he knew because we had prepared him for this. He now had the skills to recognize that he was safe. He was loved. He was going to be fed. He had a cozy bed in a warm home.

Thank you so much to everyone who helped Oakley on his journey. To our volunteers, fosters, donors and to those who simply cheer us on. Dogs like Oakley need us. They need all of you! And finally, thank you to Marianne who will take care of, love and nurture this beautiful dog.

With care and love, he’s blossomed into the sweet, affectionate boy he was always meant to be.