Stephanie and her husband, Zaw had been regularly looking on the SGVHS website because they were considering adopting a dog. They had just gotten married and wanted to add another member to their family, while also helping a shelter pup in need of a home. Before bringing a dog home, they wanted to make sure their house was prepped properly, so they spent ample time getting it ready. Upon their first visit to SGVHS they did not intend to bring a dog home, but when they met German Shepherd mix, Cherry, they decided she had to go home with them immediately.
Upon arrival at the shelter, they passed by several kennels full of dogs before they spied quiet and calm Cherry in the back of the farthest of cages. They were drawn to Cherry because she was one of the only dogs not barking as they passed. As soon as they met Cherry in the play yard, they observed that she was shy and that shyness resonated with the couple, because they described themselves as shy also. The very quality that may have made many adopters pass Cherry by, endeared her to them.
Once home, Stephanie says it was a long adjustment period just getting to know Cherry and her quirks. Cherry was fearful of many things, including the car and loud noises. She walked around timidly with her tail tucked between her legs, which worried Stephanie and her husband, but they were committed to making their new relationship work. After considerable patience, a set schedule, and work with a reputable trainer, Cherry started to come out of her shell. Stephanie says Cherry now regards them as her family and the people she can trust the most.
Cherry now loves going on walks, playing and rolling in the grass and bursting into zoomies at any given moment. She also loves balls and having playdates and sleepovers with her grandparents! Cherry cherishes her furry squeaky toys so much - she often loves them to death, so Stephanie is constantly challenged finding toys that will stand the test of time. Cherry is very polite when asking for treats and is called the “ninja dog” because she’s so quiet she often sneaks up on Stephanie and her husband. She’s a big time cuddler and snuggler who loves to use Stephanie or Zaw as a pillow for her naps. Cherry’s tail wagging is so frequent and strong that Stephanie is surprised she hasn’t put a dent in the wall.
Stephanie says, “we are so very grateful to whoever found Cherry during her time on the streets and decided to rescue her when she was homeless and starving. We are also so grateful to the staff and volunteers at SGVHS for loving and caring for her so long and so well before she came into our lives. She is so very smart, sweet and such a lovely giant. We absolutely adore her, and we want everyone to know that she is very loved, safe and happy.”