Hello Dog Squad,

We finally got them both to sit still long enough to take a picture. This is Jack (formerly Spartan-adopted April 5, 2008) and our son, Austin. They adore each other.

Again, we're very thankful that you rescued him from Gwinnett Animal Control as he's truly a gem.

Have a great summer!
Heidi, Andrew, Austin and BlackJack

In a letter to one of our volunteers after Klaus' adoption:

Just wanted to touch base with you and let you know how happy I am to have Klaus in my life. I can’t tell you in words how much it has meant to me. For the first time I understand why so many dog owners get so attached. I’m feeling it, too. We do everything together. I’ve taken 2 weeks off to acclimate Klaus to his new home and we’re chasing balls, walking and visiting neighbors every day pretty much all day.

His separation anxiety is waning and I think it had a lot to do with fear that his owner wouldn’t return. Klaus knows now that I’m not leaving him. I can leave the house for hours and he doesn’t wimper or bark anymore; but he’s thrilled when I return! And so am I.

Anyway, I can’t imagine why someone would have let this wonderful fella loose but I sure won’t. I don’t think he’s going to let me loose either! Thanks again for all you’ve done.

Hi Momma Karen!

Mom checked the home email while she was at work and we voted for the cutest dog out there!!! It was so nice to hear from you. Mom said to tell you how sorry we were to learn of Spanky's passing. We know what a blow that was for everybody but we know Spanky's last months were wonderful with you.

I've been celebrating the second anniversary of my rescue from the shelter. I've lived with Mom and Dad for a year and a half now and I'm doing well. Too well in the weight department even though Mom severely restricts my diet! I'm now up to 121 pounds which is not helping my arthritic hips a bit, but I'm happy as can be. I went to the doctor a few weeks ago for my annual shots and stuff. I behaved but I wasn't a bit thrilled, I can tell you!

I don't know if I told you about my vacation in Upstate NY last October. The leaves were beautiful but I was glad to get back to Dixie. NY cows just didn't excite me a bit. I'm content to monitor the activities of the squirrels, chipmunks and rabbits in my back yard. Oh, and the occasional deer that wanders past.

We went to the dog park last weekend for the first time in months. It was a beautiful day and there were a TON of dogs to meet. I tried very hard to run with the younguns, but it's too much for me so I gave up and just watched. Some of the dogs came over to talk to me and I was very polite and showed an interest in what they all said.

Mom has been very busy following the Iditarod again this year. She drives Dad nuts checking on the computer all the time to see how the mushers are progressing. She explains it all to me and I think it sounds fascinating. Too bad I'm a Lab and not a sled dog!

Bunnie is as crazy as ever. I just don't know where that cat gets her energy! Sometimes she actually leaps over me on her race around the house! I've learned to keep my head down and lay very still. Now if she'd just leave my tail alone, I'd be satisfied.

Well, Mom says she has to go eat lunch so she can go back to work, so I'll say goodbye for now. I hope you had a good winter and that spring comes soon for you and ADS!

Lots of Lab love,
Sasha

In an email to an ADS Volunteer, after a follow-up:

Thanks for checking on us. I have discovered arm muscles I never knew where there. I think she is adjusting well. She is a funny funny dog. I have renamed Maisy to Gracie. Gracie and I went to petco yesterday and she stuffed two stuffed animals in her mouth, it was so cute.

I forgot to stop outside Saturday and get our picture taken for the website, so I have attached some that we have taken.

The last picture is where she found a new sleeping spot. Can you spot the dog?

Dear Atlanta Dog Squad,

We just wanted to tell you how great little Duchess is doing. We adopted her on Dec. 15 and it didn't even take 1 day for her to totally become a member of our family! She is such a wonderful little dog and she is terrific with every member of our family! She came in with such a heart full of love for us! She is great with our 9 year old chow, Ruby. They have already started playing and wrestling together and I think Duchess has added years to Ruby's life. Duchess is great with our 6 year old son and I've never seen him love an animal like he loves her!

Thank you all so much for giving us the opportunity to adopt one of your precious "babies". You are fantastic at what you do and we have already told EVERYONE in our neighborhood about you all!

Atlanta Dog Squad is such an asset to Atlanta, to other families, and especially to us!

The McWilliams Family