3 Pooches With Heartwarming Stories Search For New Homes

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, MD — Patch recently partnered with the SPCA/Humane Society of Prince George's County. Each week, we will bring you the cutest pets looking for homes. Here are this week's adorable adoptables.

Samson

Samson is loving his do-over life!

Two months ago, he was a sad sight … every short, unsteady step seemed painful … open wounds on both ears from relentless fly-strikes … a tail that was hairless at its last 6 inches … and a coat that was caked with urine and feces.

Samson spent his life outside in a backyard pen, with his daily meal of leftovers usually the only contact with his owners. He was never taken on a walk. He didn’t pay much attention to people and when he did, he was pretty wary.

We worried that Samson might have given up on life … but you can’t keep a good dog down!
Every day since his arrival at his foster home has been another step on Samson’s journey to recovery. Every day, the medicines, supplements and good food have helped heal his body. The affection and constant company of his foster mom and dogs have gone a long way to heal his spirit.

Life outdoors exposed to the elements has made Samson super-appreciative of his new life indoors. He loves the comfort of a dog bed and house “training” came natural to him — he has never had a lapse! Samson’s started doing happy dog stuff like rolling around in the grass, chomping on his favorite toys and leaning in to his foster mom for head rubs.

He loves to chew; tree branches are a favorite outside, and indoors he channels the puppy in him by munching on Kongs and rubber toys, as well as hefty rope toys. He’s never happier though than when he’s quietly lying beside his foster mom, whatever she’s doing.

Samson loves other dogs but starts out a little over-excited with them. This usually passes quickly and he has become pals with his foster home’s little dog.

Samson sight and hearing are fine, and he only barks at stranger-danger. Since he does have arthritic hips, keeping his weight in check is important. At the moment he can climb stairs, though with some effort. Samson is receiving a number of medications and supplements that have greatly improved his mobility and comfort and he may well benefit from being on those for life.

Short walks several times a day will also help keep Samson mobile, although he does love to stop and sniff as much as walk.

Samson has blossomed so much in just a few months! All he needs is a kind owner to live his happiest life.

If you can’t adopt Samson, but would like to support his ongoing care, please send donations to PGSPCA.org/donate and add a note that it’s for Samson.

Xena

I’m a gentle, affectionate, low-maintenance pointer mix looking for a calm, loving home. I’m a sweet girl around 50 pounds with a striking black and white medium-length coat.

I may be 9 years old but you won’t believe that when you pick up my leash for a walk or jog and I prance to your side. I’m spayed and micro-chipped, fully house-trained and have impeccable manners.

My favorite activities are being pet and cuddled, playing with a squeaky toy and exploring the great outdoors. When I’m not with you, I can be found napping quietly on my bed.

My foster family got me on Oct. 9 and had noticed some shaking of my back legs that can make me nervous of slippery surfaces like hardwood floors. The vet checked me out and think it is from a narrowed disc in my back, which is common as we get older and put me on pain meds.

It doesn’t bother me now; I’ll still happily jump in the car to go wherever you’ll take me. If you’re looking for an adorable, loyal, low-key dog who will melt your heart then I’m your perfect companion.

Rusty

Rusty is happiest curled up by your side. Like most chows, he bonds firm and fast to his family, and comes looking for you if you’re not where he expects you to be.

However, unlike chows, he is happy to meet new people, and most dogs. (He’s not crazy about little yappy ones.)

He likes his daily constitutional, and looks suggestively at the front door each morning. He enjoys car rides, but only if he can stick his head out the window. He is vigilant in protecting the yard from squirrels.

If you’re looking for a sweet companion, Rusty’s your guy!

The local SPCA is a volunteer-run organization that does not operate a physical shelter. Volunteers house the animals in their own homes until they are adopted. Every pet up for adoption is listed here. To start the adoption process, fill out this form. Anyone with questions can call (301) 262-5625 or email pgspcavol@gmail.com.

RELATED:

• Adorable Adoptables From Prince George's County SPCA

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