Agency Success Story:

Blossom

Submitted by Puyallup Animal Rescue

We’ve all heard the phrase “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks” in reference to the supposed inflexibility of seniors. Totally untrue, of course; just look at 11-year-old Blossom.

Originally adopted from PetSmart as a youngster in 1997, Blossom returned to Puyallup Animal Rescue after her adoring owner passed away, leaving the 10-year-old Australian Cattle Dog mix with a family member who banished her to the yard. An unwanted Blossom went to live with volunteer Anastasia Gamache, who was amazed by the dog’s resilience. “Losing her owner was traumatic, but this little dog was the sweetest thing – adaptable and trusting,” she says.

Blossom’s second chance for a “happily ever after” arrived when a woman wandered into PetSmart searching for a dog to provide companionship for her mother, Anne. Meeting Anne later that day, Anastasia could tell she loved dogs and would provide a wonderful home. Anne, however, had some doubts – especially when Blossom jumped on her furniture during their first week together. But clever Blossom quickly learned the new rules and routines.

“She’s a remarkable animal and seems to understand me so well,” says Anne of her inseparable canine friend. “I just love her.”

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Customer Success Story:

Spencer

Pet parent: Laurette

In October 2001, a very good friend of pet parent Laurette suggested rather persistently that she needed a dog. Reluctantly, Laurette accompanied her friend to PetSmart just to look at the dogs up for adoption.

“PAAW had a photo album with several pictures of dogs awaiting adoption for us to look at while we waited,” Laurette says. “When they arrived, almost before they placed the puppies in the pen, I saw this animated ball of white fur in my friend’s arms. I signed adoption papers and purchased “dog stuff” for the wiggly and social fur ball.”

Spencer is now 5 years old and about 50 lbs. Laurette brings him to PetSmart occasionally to visit, and each time someone comments on how beautiful and happy he is. Since attending obedience classes at PetSmart, Spencer is well adjusted, obedient, and a wonderful addition to Laurette’s home.

“Since Spencer moved in and wrapped himself around my heart, life is happier, funnier, and generally better. He makes me laugh every day,” Laurette says. “I believe that my friend was right; I needed a dog in my life to open a world I didn’t know existed. I’m glad I listened to my friend.”

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Associate Success Story:

Merlin

Pet parent: Gina

While shopping at Petsmart, Gina decided to look at the animals up for adoption. “With two cats, four Tokey geckos, fish, and a new baby, we never thought we would actually adopt another pet,” Gina says.

“A tiny black and white kitten, the runt of the litter, was curled up in bed sleeping and caught her eye. My husbandknew that if I held the cat; it was going to come home with us,” Gina says.

Though Gina worried about the added responsibility after just returning to work from maternity leave and adjusting to be a working mom, she watched her husband holding the kitten and smiling and that’s what sealed the deal.

“Merlin has to be the most affectionate cat we have ever had. He has the biggest personality! We have had Merlin for over a year now and not a day goes by that I don’t wonder what we would have done without him in our lives,” says Gina.

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