Adopter Name

Annie Shurtleff

Rescue Dog's Name

Levi the Labrador

Where Did You Find Your Dog?

Levi was found dumped at a school hiding, animal control picked him up and then adopted him out three times only to be returned each time because he wasn't "what they expected" among other reasons.

Tell Us About the Moment When You Knew that You Two Were Meant for Each Other.

Having gotten attached and then being left and discarded so many times at such a young age left Levi with a lot of anxiety and no confidence. I applied for his next adoption and they thought we would be the right fit! Levi was hyper sensitive to loud noises, he acted like he had been hit and would shy away from people and almost sneak by any human around him as to not be noticed. He was so unsure of himself, he had been stripped of any confidence within himself and his fear of me leaving him even at home was just to much for him. This is what humans had done to him left him a shell of a soul. His sweet eyes just cried out for reassurance and I was and still am happy to give it to him. Levi got to come to work with me for a long time until we built a bond and he could trust me. He just needed a little patience, a lot of love and kind treatment.

How Has Your Hero Changed Your Life?

He is my heart walking around on four legs. He is my best friend a loyal beyond words, a little kindness goes a long way. He has taught me though not to give up, even when so many people had hurt him he still offered his heart to me. That forgiveness is a gift to yourself, by forgiving those who stripped him of confidence he was able to move forward in a much better life full of love with us. Most of all he has shown me that it is okay to be sensitive, and while some people may not appreciate you for who you are just keep your tail wagging, hold your head up high, surround yourself with people who love you for you and you will always be okay.