Adoption Success Stories

Unfortunately, many animals that find their way to Northeast Animal Shelter often have unbelievable stories leading up to their rescue. But thanks to loving adoptive families, these stories have wonderful endings.

This is just one of the many stories...

Crossfire

No one could truly see Crossfire’s emotional scars when he first arrived. Playful and affectionate, he gave no indication of his sadness or desperate need to be around loving people to protect him. But his very first night, after everyone had left for the day, Crossfire escaped from his crate and, in a nervous fury, chewed the window blinds and frames, and had accidents all over the floor.

What could cause such behavior? To Crossfire, it was simple…he was scared to be alone. He wanted to be around people as much as possible. He wanted to know he was loved and cared for, and that he would never be made to race again.

During the day, when the staff was around, he was affectionate, wagging his tail and enjoying all the attention he was given. But each night Crossfire suffered when left alone and would become even more destructive…repeatedly chewing and destroying things at the shelter.

At Northeast Animal Shelter, we understand that “incorrect” behavior is not the animal’s fault, but rather the result of an unfortunate past. But we know that with time, love and patience, an animal’s true nature will emerge. That’s why we never destroy an animal in our care. Help us turn even the most difficult animal into a loving pet.

Soon Crossfire began to lose weight because he couldn’t keep food down, and had to be prescribed a special diet to settle his tender stomach. The more Crossfire needed a home, the less his chances of being adopted seemed to be.

Finally, a couple came into the shelter looking to adopt a dog. They were told about Crossfire’s disposition, but when they saw how affectionate he could be, they agreed to take him home immediately.

Even though the couple quickly became attached to the sweet greyhound, they soon realized he needed someone constantly at home to care for him. Time alone would cause him such anxiety that it was too much for his system. They knew they had to bring him back to the shelter.

When Crossfire returned to us, there seemed to be less hope of ever finding him a home. But much to our joy, the very next day a couple whose 15-year old greyhound had recently passed away came by the shelter. They fell in love with Crossfire as soon as they saw him and agreed to take him home that day!

Today, Crossfire, who has since been named Stretch, couldn’t be happier in his new home. Both his parents work from home and can give Stretch all the attention he needs! They describe him as “goofy,” “playful” and “clever” and Crossfire’s nervous stomach troubles have all gone away. He even shares the attention with the family’s two cats! The couple tells us Stretch is a welcome addition to their lives.

Crossfire is one of the reasons why Northeast Animal Shelter never puts a time limit on finding adoptive homes for our animals. Sometimes dogs and cats come to us with special needs. But we know that with time, the perfect family will come through our doors. Just like they did for Crossfire.

Your support allows us to keep animals like Crossfire and others for as long as it takes to find them a forever home. Won’t you help support us in our commitment to all animals?

Past Success Stories:

Northeast Animal Shelter
347 Highland Avenue, Salem, MA 01970
Phone: (978)745-9888
Monday - Friday: 10am - 8pm
Saturday & Sunday: 10am - 6pm