Patch, a long-term resident and a well-known face of Lenawee Humane Society, finally found the family she's been patiently waiting for after TEN months.
Patch arrived at the shelter with her share of issues (read about in more depth here). She was emaciated, heartworm positive, a pitbull mix, and deaf. All of these obstacles had to be overcome before landing the perfect home – and Patch conquered each of them, one by one.
We pleaded for your help to treat Patch's heartworm disease, and you responded with donations. Within two months, the deadly parasite was rid from Patch's body and she was on the road to recovery. Gaining weight didn't take her long once she realized her meals were promised every day. She began working daily with Ted Aranda who taught her sign language. When Patch began mastering basic commands, such as sit and stay, we realized how intelligent this beautiful girl really was. Patch's breed no longer mattered. The public fell in love with her charm and her determination, and loved her even more when they learned that she was a pitbull mix.
Ted Aranda not only taught Patch sign language – he showed her how to be a dog again. Between daily trips to the park to stretch her legs and blow off steam, to visits to the local Pet Supplies Store, Patch began enjoying her life and meeting new people everywhere she went. She was a long-term resident living in an animal shelter, but she was happy and loving life. Ted Aranda became Patch's personal Adoption Ambassador and dedicated himself to working with this challenging pup while searching for the perfect home for her.
Steve and Carrie Strayer began following Patch's story several months ago. While considering Patch as an adoption prospect, they came across a pitbull mix named Titan who needed rescued immediately. Knowing Patch was currently safe, Steve and Carrie decided to save Titan, hire Ted Aranda to work with him, and eventually add Patch to their home later down the road.
Steve and Carrie's determination matched Patch's – they refused to give up on her. On May 17th 2016, Titan had finally come far enough along in his training to meet Patch. As soon as the two dogs met at Burr Ponds Park in Adrian, it was love at first sight! Patch was excited for a playmate but respectful of Titan's bossy male status. Patch had FINALLY found her very own family!
Steve and Carrie's dedication to Patch began long before they even took her home, and we have no doubt it will continue long after. We want to thank them from the bottom of our hearts for taking a chance on our Underdog! We also want to thank Ted Aranda, Patch's guardian angel, for never giving up on her.
Patch's forever home: Deaf dog with a social media following is adopted in Adrian
Daily Telegram article by Dan Cherry
