Furry Friends Feature: Join in the Howling of ‘The 12 Dogs of Christmas’

As holiday carols fill the air, the team at The Heritage Humane Society is singing — or howling — one of their favorites, “The 12 Dogs of Christmas!” From playful pals to professional loungers, from adventurers to homebodies, and from zippy to dedicated snugglers, meet 12 of the shelter’s more than 60 dogs awaiting their fur-ever homes this festive season.

  • Abel. This 8-year-old Australian Shepherd Mix is an A+ student! On top of being beyond cute, Abel is a whiz kid when it comes to his tricks. Lie down, roll over, paw, beg — he’s got it all. And he’s been practicing with the shelter’s team to help him find a home for the holidays. Abel promises unwavering loyalty and companionship to his future family. His favorite activities include engaging in spirited games of tug-of-war, enthusiastic rounds of fetch, leisurely walks, and simply basking in the company of his beloved humans.

  • Blaze. Anyone looking to adopt an 80-pound polar beer? Come meet Blaze! This 10-year-old Great Pyrenees Mix is perfect for those looking for a calm, loyal companion. He is incredibly sweet and loving and when he throws his puppy eyes in the mix, he has the superpowers to melt hearts. As a special gift this holiday season, an anonymous donor has sponsored Blaze’s adoption fee.

  • Daisy Mae. This 7-year-old Labrador Retriever Mix is sweet as pie! Daisy Mae is an affectionate and playful gal. A little shy at first, she warms up fast with gentle reassurance. With a little patience and understanding, Daisy Mae will continue blossoming into the loving companion her lucky human has been waiting for.

  • Dino. A 1-year-old Coonhound Mix, this affectionate and goofy guy is on the lookout for a loving family to share his zest for life. Fun-loving and charismatic Dino is eagerly waiting to be welcomed in his forever home, hopefully in time to make his holidays even brighter.

  • Fifi. Fifi is hoping for a holiday miracle as sadly, she is about to spend her second Christmas at the shelter without a fur-ever family. This 3-year-old American Pit Bull Mix has been at the shelter since April 2023. This blonde beauty truly desires a loyal friend, stability and structure to bring out the best in her. Her motto is “slow and steady wins the race.” She’s not a dog who wears her emotions right there on her sleeves. She prefers to let out bits of her personality a little at a time (and only after she’s certain someone will stick with her). Her story before she came to the Heritage Humane Society explains a lot about why she is slow to love. She was abandoned in a house by her previous owners. She waited and watched over her brother, a cat named Sal, for days but her family sadly never returned. It takes time, but once Fifi opens her heart to you, be prepared for an abundance of affection and unwavering loyalty.

  • Ghost. There’s been a friendly ghost haunting the halls of The Heritage Humane Society! Ghost, a 2-year-old Shepherd Mix is more eager to be roaming with his forever family as the greatest companion on life’s adventures. He is active, playful and wonderfully intelligent. Ghost is continuing to work on his basic commands and manners.

  • Kismet. This 2-year-old mixed breed pup loves her favorite shelter and foster people, and has shown an interest in outdoor activities. Her foster says she loves car rides, playing soccer with the kids and has been a respectful house guest. She will need some help with potty training, however she does use the bathroom while on her walks or playing outside. Her foster mom says, “she follows me around like a shadow. She is always lying at my feet or right at my side no matter what she’s doing. If I leave her sight she will stop what she’s doing to find me. She seems VERY trainable and very intelligent. Very kid-friendly. She will literally have four kids laying on her at once and is an angel.” Ready to expand the family this holiday season? Be sure to meet this dedicated family girl.

  • Kudos. This 10-month-old mixed breed fella came in as a stray in October. He was so fearful that when the shelter staff would approach him his whole body would shake and he would burrow himself in the back of his kennel. It has been all about baby steps with Kudos — sitting with him quietly, laying pieces of chicken next close by, sniffing a hand for the first time, eventually getting him to eat from a person’s hand, putting a collar on him, walking him on the leash for the first time, receiving kisses for the first time, and seeing him play with a toy for the first time. It just proves that with time and patience, Kudos will gladly be an adopter’s best friend. Kudos is currently living with a shelter foster where he is learning the joys of being in a home. If you’re interested in meeting Kudos, contact The Heritage Humane Society team at 757-221-0150 or adopt@heritagehumane.org to arrange a meet and greet.

  • Lark. This soft-eared, doe-eyed, freckled beauty came in as a stray three months ago. Lark is a 3-year-old American Pit Bull mix who was found roaming around a McDonald’s parking lot with another dog named John Doe, who is also available for adoption. This 50-pound stunner is sweet and very squishy. She’s never met a stranger and is friendly with everyone! If you are looking for an energetic, fun-loving, playful gal to add to your household, please consider Lark. As a holiday gift, Lark’s adoption fee has been generously sponsored by Campana Waltz Commercial Real Estate – WEST.

  • Moxxi. This German Shepherd Mix is a lovebug! She is 8-years-young and looking to settle down for her golden years. She’s a mellow, loyal, gentle and affectionate girl who loves to be by someone’s side. Moxxi is mostly a girl of relaxation, lounging and snoozing the day away. She is a true people pleaser and is reportedly potty trained, going to the door when she has an important “business meeting” outside. If you’re interested in giving a grey muzzle the love and affection she deserves, Moxxi is waiting at the shelter today.

  • Pukka. Pukka is planning on flying away to her fur-ever home with her ears! At around 9 months old, Pukka is a spirited mixed-breed pup who is brimming with energy, charm, and the silliest smile around. Pukka’s social circle extends to her fellow canines. He’s the “paw-sitive vibes only” type and loves to play with dogs and people of all ages. If you have a pup looking for a playmate, Pukka will keep them busy — she is a great addition to any pack. She is currently at one of the shelter’s loving foster homes. If interested in meeting Pukka, contact the HHS team at 757-221-0150 or adopt@heritagehumane.org.

  • Wolverine. Meet Wolverine, a spry 10-years-young Beagle mix with a big heart. Despite his not-so-lap-dog size, Wolverine loves to perch on a person’s lap as if he’s a tiny pup, always ready for cuddles. He enjoys playing with other dogs, showing that age is just a number when it comes to having fun. If you’re looking for a loving companion with a playful spirit, Wolverine might just claw his way into your heart.

Top the holidays with a bow is easier than ever

Pet lovers are invited to join in the tradition of the shelter’s Holiday Fur Trees. This holiday season, animal welfare supporters have a festive opportunity to dedicate a bow to honor or remember cherished pets and other pet lovers while spreading joy and supporting a lifesaving mission that impacts lives right here in the community.

Located in the brick garden at the entrance of The Heritage Humane Society, the bows for the Holiday Fur Trees are gifts that give back. Participating in this holiday tradition is simple and meaningful. Choose from three festive bow options:

  • Small bows: $15 each
  • Large bows: $30 each
  • Or, a sponsorship package for businesses and organizations to support the shelter

Each bow can be inscribed with up to three names and dedicated to beloved pets (past or present), devoted pet lovers or adoptable animals awaiting their forever homes.

Purchasing the 2024 bows is easy with these two options:

Neuter Nuts: Easy shopping, guaranteed chuckles and the promise of better tomorrows

Gift shoppers can stop in The Heritage Humane Society’s ReTAIL Store located at the shelter’s Adoption Center. One of the most popular gifts is the shelter’s collaboration with Virginia Diner — Neuter Nuts! This cheeky line of gourmet Virginia peanuts and snack mixes are a quality gift for friends and neighbors that also raise funds and awareness for responsible pet ownership.

The ReTAIL Store also features a variety of pet gear, food, shelter merchandise and gifts for pet lovers.

Ready to be adopted for the holidays

200 dogs, cats and small pets are currently in the shelter’s care. Adoptable pets are available to meet during The Heritage Humane Society’s visiting and adopting hours from noon to 4:30 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday.

To learn more, visit HeritageHumane.org, call 757-221-0150, or visit The Heritage Humane Society located at 430 Waller Mill Road, Williamsburg, VA 23185.


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