Overlooked Dog Needs Good Home

The Three Musketeers

In August of 2023, one of our rescue partners in southwest Virginia reached out to us with an appeal to take in some dogs from the local shelter, which was, as usual, at capacity. Among the dogs we agreed to take were three 4-month-old hound-mix puppies from the same litter. There were two males and one female, all of them cute tan and white bundles of wiggles. Tripp, Todd, and Tess loved to romp and play together. All three dogs were friendly with other dogs and good-natured, so they fit in well with the pack at the kennel.

The threesome began going to our bimonthly dog adoptions. They were initially tentative about all the sights and sounds, as well as the many new people who came to visit the dogs. But it didn’t take long for all three dogs to enjoy their time with our volunteers, who are always very generous with treats.  Prospective adopters were given a supply of treats to make the dogs feel more comfortable. Before long, the dogs were sitting on the volunteers’ laps and winning over everybody.

And Then There Was One

Todd was the first puppy to be adopted. Then Tripp found his forever home. Despite her sweet personality, Tess was passed over again and again. She found new playmates among our other dogs, but no forever home.

In late 2024, Tess got an application. It was with a family in a busy household, with a cat in residence. Quite a change from her quiet life at the kennel! Tess adored her new human mom and loved the youngest child. She even got along with the cat. But the boisterous twin boys were a little too much for her. She was also anxious with the neighborhood noises – cars, a nearby freeway, and the raucous children at the nearby school. Ultimately, everyone agreed that the household was not a good match for Tess and she returned to SPCA NOVA.

Since then, people have shown interest in Tess, but nobody has taken her home. We don’t understand why. This lovely, noble dog is smart and affectionate. She enjoys lounging with her people while they work. Tess has learned “Sit” and “Down.” She’s very good at catching treats on the fly. Maybe she could transfer that to catching frisbees? She walks well on a leash, but can be distracted by noises (and squirrels).

In the right home, Tess will be a wonderful companion.  She is a pretty active dog, so being able to burn off some energy in a fenced yard would be perfect. On the flip side, she’ll love to sit on your lap – or at least share the couch with you when you’re streaming your favorite shows. Tess will do well in a moderately active home. Older, respectful children will enjoy her company. She would make a good running companion as long as the area is not noisy and/or full of cars. And boy! Does she love to play in water. We know that there is a home out there for Tess, but she’ll have a safe place with SPCA NOVA until her forever family finds her.