STAGECOACH, Nev. (KOLO) – When it comes to finding a forever home, a few minutes on camera from inside a kennel just doesn’t cut it. That’s why I’m taking adoptable dogs out into the real world, so you can see their true personalities shine.
In our new segment Fetch a Friend, I’m teaming up with the Wylie Animal Rescue Foundation (WARF) to give overlooked dogs a fighting chance. Our first episode features Lucky and Athena; two lovable pups rescued from high-risk shelters and now safe at WARF’s facility in Stagecoach.
Lucky and I go way back. I first met him in January while covering WARF’s efforts to save dogs off death row. Months later, he’s still waiting for the right family to find him. Athena is newer to the shelter, a gentle soul who greeted me with kisses right away.
Before our hike, WARF President Sam Wood Louden introduced me to the dogs, describing their quirks, personalities, and what kind of home would suit them best. There were a few tangles (literally) as we sorted out leashes and introductions, but soon enough we were off down the scenic trails behind the rescue.
Joining us was Chris Nichols, a professional trainer from Best Life K9 Academy, who works with dogs labeled “unadoptable” — dogs that need a bit more help learning how to be part of a family. Chris is currently training both Lucky and Athena, focusing on leash manners and confidence-building. He explained how techniques like “pressure release” help dogs learn boundaries without fear while building trust and self-assurance.
“It shows them what we want them to do,” Chris told me. “We’re asking them to live in our environment, so we have to figure that out.”
As we hiked, we spotted wild horses in the distance, a little Nevada magic that had both dogs alert and curious. They’ll need homes where they get stimulation and structure, especially because they love to chase critters. Lucky is already walking calmly on a leash, while Athena’s still learning not to pull.
Chris brought along his own dog, Lelu, who showcased what patient, consistent training can do. Off-leash and attentive, Lelu walked calmly beside Chris, a powerful example of what’s possible for dogs like Lucky and Athena.
Before I left, Lucky leaned against me in a goodbye hug, while Athena gave gentle kisses. It’s hard not to fall in love with dogs like that.
If you’re interested in adopting Lucky or Athena, reach out to Wylie Animal Rescue Foundation through their website or social media. And if transportation is a concern, I’ll personally help get them to the right home. Because every dog deserves a chance. And sometimes, all it takes is a walk in the wild to see who they really are.
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