Mark – Ready To WORK!

Wanna help a wonderful pup learn how to be the best dog in the world? I need a human who wants to show a handsome young boy like me feel what it’s like to have somebody really love me. I’m friendly and happy-go-lucky Mark, and I think in my short life that humans have let me down more often than I’d care to admit. I’m not blaming, and I’m not bitter. I just need for the tides to turn so I can find my person and have the life that I want so much but don’t know how to get.

Sometimes all my pent-up energy can get the best of me. I get scared and afraid sometimes, while other times I completely understand and know how to handle the situation and I’m calm and relaxed. I’m always a friendly guy, and honestly, I think the fact that I’m so smart has made it difficult for me to deal with life in an animal shelter. Dogs can get pretty overwhelmed here, and the smart ones like me are most vulnerable to being overstimulated in certain situations. The best thing for me would be to get in a home and find some consistency and structure in life.

Believe me, I’m trying to learn, and I’m getting pretty good at understanding what is expected of me. When I do get out of the shelter and go on a “day out” with a friend, I get to see the park and explore to my heart’s content and ride in the car and get a pup cup and get all my extra energy out. I’m entirely different when I’m at a “doggy day out” than when I’m in the shelter. No surprise there. When I take walks, I love to carry a toy in my mouth. Frankly, it’s pretty doggone cute. It calms me and helps me get through some of those overstimulating situations. I’m crate trained, but I like to use a Kong or a bully stick in my crate to keep my brain occupied while I’m alone in there. I am learning how to play appropriately with other pups, and I have the grandest time dashing around and pouncing and jumping and showing off all my athletic moves.

I really need my chance with a human who will love me and who will show me how to be the best version of myself. Oh, I want to! I want so much to please you. I need guidance. I need someone with patience, understanding and a willingness to train me with consistency and love. When I know you are happy and you are praising me, it makes me feel so happy on the inside and proud of myself. And it motivates me to do even better the next time.

Can you meet me and see if you are my person? I’m pretty wonderful, so come see.

Oswald – Your Typical German Shepherd

I’m happiest when I’ve got a job to do or an activity that keeps both my body and mind busy. Whether it’s going for long hikes, playing fetch, or working on new training challenges, I’m all in! Well, hello there, I’m Oswald, a lively German Shepherd looking for an active forever home! I’ve got tons of energy, and I need a family who’s ready to keep up with me.

Do you want a car buddy? I have excellent car manners and sure do enjoy car rides. I had the luck of going to a volunteer’s house for a bit and was very well-behaved. Even was asked to get on a couch to cuddle – wow – ecstasy! I want to do that again and again and again. Oh, and I am housetrained – I didn’t even mark when visiting the volunteer’s home. I’m a good boy!!!

I’m smart, and I love to learn, so I’ll need a family dedicated to training and giving me plenty of mental stimulation. With the right guidance, I’ll thrive and show you just how eager I am to impress. If you’re ready for a loyal, hardworking companion who loves to stay active, I think we’d be the perfect match! Let’s meet soon!

Acorn – Simply Sweet As Pie

Hi, I’m Acorn! I’ve got a big personality just waiting to shine through when I meet you.

I was rescued by animal control after roaming the streets for a long, long time… When I first arrived, boy was it scary here. I wasn’t sure who I could trust, if I was going to be fed, or how this whole shelter life thing was going to work out. But I’ve made a lot of new friends, and realized that I can show these awesome people my silly goober side! I love my walks, getting the zoomies, and getting hugs and pets from my circle. I will admit, my group of besties is small right now, and it will take time for me trust you. But with love and patience, I think we’ll be buddies in no time.

What would my ideal home be like? I’m happy you asked! I get along with other dogs at the shelter pretty well, so I sure wouldn’t mind a canine companion. Let’s just make sure I meet them first, so we’re 100% sure it’s a perfect fit. The only thing that I really NEED, is a home of adults. My life on the streets was tough, and loud kiddos are sure to make me nervous. What do you say? Think you can kick it with me? The most magnificent pup in the whole shelter? Stop by today and ask about Acorn!

Fostering doesn’t require tons of skill or free time. All you need is an open heart, an open home, and Great Plains SPCA provides all of the supplies that you need to care for your foster pet. Click the button below to become a foster!

The post Our Animals Most In Need – Become A Foster! appeared first on Great Plains SPCA.

They “forgot” that they had a dog.

That was the excuse our Intake Team was given when Bernadette arrived on June 25th. Hip bones jutting out, matted to the skin with urine and feces. She had allegedly been left to die in a crate for nearly a month, slowly starving to death with no way out. It took immense willpower from our entire team to immediately begin addressing her condition. And not break down from the horror of seeing a helpless animal suffering in this way.

At eight months old, Bernadette weighed only 17 pounds on arrival. But despite everything, she was incredibly gentle and sweet. This failure in humanity had not shaken her spirit. At every turn, Bernadette showed us just how resilient dogs can be. And we made a promise to never let her suffer again.

And now? Bernadette is thriving in a foster home. Gaining weight and learning what it means to be loved. She has put on five pounds already, and will hopefully be in a healthy condition to be spayed within the week.

Animals like Bernadette can only have this chance at a happy life with your support. We have received a 10k MATCH thanks to a generous donor. Which means your dollars are DOUBLED to support Great Plains SPCA. DONATE TODAY during our Lend A Paw Donation Drive, and lend a paw to numerous pets who depend on us to be saved.

The post Owners “Forgot” They Had A Dog – Bernadette’s Story appeared first on Great Plains SPCA.

What Is A Puppy Mill?

A puppy mill is the inhumane, breeding of dogs. Often on a large scale, where mother dogs spend their days confined to cages in unsanitary conditions. Endlessly bred to turn a profit. These mothers and puppies often suffer from numerous untreated health issues, and know nothing beyond the confines of their pen. In many cases, this physical and emotional trauma is not disclosed to unknowing families. And the uninformed adopters do not realize the potential medical and behavioral challenges that they will face with their new puppy.

According to the Humane Society of the United States, there are an estimated 10,000 puppy mills in the US. Shipping their pets off to pet stores and auction houses, and continuing the cycle of cruelty.

How You Can Help

It can be confusing to figure out how to ethically find your new furry friend. But you’re in luck! Animal shelter across the country have tens of thousands of pets waiting for their forever homes. By choosing not to purchase from a breeder, and adopting your new pet, you are ending the cycle AND saving life. Many shelters have purebred dogs available for adoption, and there are breed specific rescues if the type of dog is important to your family. At Great Plains SPCA, all pets have received their vaccinations, spay/neuter, and are microchipped before they set foot outside of the shelter. Setting your family up for success.

If you are not ready to adopt, volunteering your time and donating to your local animal shelter are all great options. However you are able to contribute, you are making a massive difference in the lives of countless animals who need your help.

Just this weekend, GPSPCA has taken in 14 animals from a puppy mill that has now been shut down by local authorities. By supporting during our Lend A Paw Donation Drive, you are allowing us to continue saving lives, just like theirs,every single day. Please DONATE TODAY.

The post The Truth About Puppy Mills appeared first on Great Plains SPCA.

On Thursday morning, May 30th, our HERO Outreach Team was alerted to a dog that was found living in a wire crate outdoors. His back legs are damaged, and appeared to have been wrapped by a veterinarian. We expected to simply check in, make contact with the owner and come up with a plan to bring the pup inside and take a look at this injuries. But what we ultimately discovered on arrival was horrifying.

A pungent odor was the first thing that our team noticed, even when standing a few feet away from Vince in his crate. He was unable to place any weight on one of his paws, and the other foot was clearly causing him excruciating pain. We learned that Vince had been attacked by a dog, and had received some assistance at a local vet. But his owner was struggling with dementia, and could not provide the care that this poor pup so desperately needed. We swiftly got permission to bring Vince to Great Plains SPCA and rushed him to our Shelter Medicine Team for immediate medical evaluation and intensive care.

A slow removal of the bandages revealed extensive wounds to his back legs and paws. One of his toes had been completely severed, and the entire area was inflamed and infected. As our team continued his care, Vince gave them nothing but love. As he accepted pets and hugs, Vince allowed our staff to reassure him as we got a complete picture of his needs.

Vince currently requires pain medication, extreme activity restriction, and daily bandage changes to address his wounds. Our veterinary team is watching Vince carefully each day, and his needs may change depending on how well his injuries are able to heal. Vince’s recovery will take time and we will do everything in our power to see that Vince has a brighter future.

During our Lend-A-Paw donation drive, your donation is MATCHED up to $150,000 to save lives like Vince’s. Our goal is to raise $380,000 by July 31st, so that we can continue to have a life-changing impact in our community. Please consider donating today.

The post Vince’s Story – Saved By Our HERO Team appeared first on Great Plains SPCA.

On May 4th, a good Samaritan came across Gatsby in a local park, barely able to move due to how matted his fur had become. The bystander immediately called Great Plains SPCA, and rushed Gatsby to our shelter for help.

Our Intake Team, many of whom have been in animal welfare for years, noted that Gatsby was “the worst matted fur they had ever seen.” Gatsby couldn’t see because of the matts, and his feces were trapped against his skin. Creating excruciatingly painful inflammation on his hind end. We sedated Gatsby to ease his suffering through the shaving process, and our Shelter Medicine Team spent over an hour removing the matted fur as gently as possible.

In his first few days, Gatsby was nauseous and lethargic. But with rest and recovery, we have seen his silly personality grow brighter with each moment that passes. Gatsby loves toys, snuggles, and has never met a stranger. He loves dogs and humans equally, and our little survivor is beginning to thrive after such a heartbreaking start to shelter life.

Thank you to everyone who has followed Gatsby’s journey. Show your support for Gatsby and numerous other shelter animals in need by donating today.

The post The Worst Matted Fur We’ve Seen In Years appeared first on Great Plains SPCA.

The Proud Family

Our HERO Team noticed a Facebook post from a family in desperate need. They were planning to move, and unable to bring their dogs with them. When we arrived on the scene, and to our surprise, the dogs in need included four 2-month-old puppies! We loaded up Trudy (mom), Oscar (dad), and all four babies into the van and brought them straight to the shelter.

We have a suspicion that Oscar may not be the father of all of the babies, judging by their size. But we love them all nonetheless, and have altered and vaccinated the whole crew. Each member of this happy family is now available for adoption and would love to become a forever fixture in your home.

Franklin – From Stray To Safe

Franklin was found roaming the streets in a neighborhood full of boarded up houses. Though terrified, our HERO Team was able to lure him over with treats and wet food. This poor pup has multiple scars, missing patches of hair, and was covered in fleas, dirt and feces stains when we first picked him up. It was no surprise to our Shelter Medicine Team when testing came back positive for roundworms and whipworms as well. Franklin is now all cleaned up, and has received vaccinations, dewormer, and neuter surgery.

We are slowly teaching Franklin that this is a safe place. Small things like the sound of a squeaker toy or moving too fast are frightening to him. But with love and patience, we know he’ll make a wonderful canine companion.

Rottweiler Puppies Finally Safe After Months Of Work

Our HERO Outreach Team first learned about a litter of Rottweiler/mix puppies in January, born outside in the midst of a winter snow storm. We were unable to convince the owner to surrender the puppies at the time, but knew we couldn’t give up. Months were spent slowly building trust, educating, and leaving an open line of communication in hopes that they would one day be ours.

That day came on March 10th! The owner finally agreed to surrender the five puppies that had survived the winter to Great Plains SPCA, and we immediately found them a foster home where they could grow and learn to be happy dogs. The mom of the litter was spayed during the recent Spay and Neuter Collaborative of Kansas City, which means no more new additions to the current overpopulation crisis.

Our HERO Outreach Team greatly appreciates the support of our community, which allows them to save countless lives each year. If you want to make an impact in the lives of pets throughout the Kansas City metro, your donation will go straight toward the amazing work that Great Plains SPCA does every day. Thank you to every person that makes our mission possible.

The post Meet Our HERO Rescues appeared first on Great Plains SPCA.

Great Plains SPCA heard the news and knew we had to help. Our team quickly jumped into action, arranging transfer and preparing for the arrival of 13 animals. Within a matter of days, these pets were on their way to our shelter and ready for the beginning of the rest of their lives.

Our new arrivals are learning what it truly means to be loved. There are numerous medical concerns that will be addressed by our Shelter Medicine, including alopecia, upper respiratory infections, ear infections, dental disease, eye infections, and countless others. We are relieved that these pets are now safe in our care, but our work is not over.

Donate today to help Great Plains SPCA continue to save lives.

The post From Neglect To Safety appeared first on Great Plains SPCA.

It has been one year since I first arrived at Great Plains SPCA. Honestly, Diary, that makes me really sad. I don’t understand why no one wants to be my forever family. The last time someone asked to see me was October of last year, and I’m honestly not sure if anyone will choose me after so long….

Diary, I’m a big boy with a big heart. I’m 84 pounds of love that wants nothing more than to snuggle up with my best friend on the couch. I’m housetrained, learned all my basic obedience at Puppies for Parole, and I’ve been a perfect boy in a foster home. I recently got a break from the shelter with a very nice foster family! They’re always so kind to me, but it hurts my heart when I have to return to the shelter.

Now Diary, I do have something to confess. I have a hard time sharing my love with other animals. I started out with a few doggy friends. But as my stress has increased in the shelter, other animals have become scary for me. I want a family where I can be their one and only. Maybe with a few older kids that don’t mind when I get the zoomies. Diary, I hope that’s not too much ask. I’ve already waited so long, I can’t imagine living life in a kennel for another year…

Diary, is anyone going to adopt me? All I want is a home.

Sincerely,

Luke

Email adoptions@greatplainsspca.org to adopt Luke. You can check out my profile here.

The post Luke’s Diary appeared first on Great Plains SPCA.

1. Wisdom and Maturity: Senior pets, like fine wine, come with a unique charm that only time can bestow. Kevin, with his eight years of life experiences, embodies the wisdom and maturity that can enrich our lives. Unlike rambunctious puppies or high-energy young adults, senior pets often possess a calmness and composure that can be comforting and soothing. Their settled personalities make them an ideal companion for individuals and families seeking a relaxed and balanced pet.
2. Established Habits and Training: One of the many advantages of adopting a senior pet is their well-established habits and training. Unlike younger animals, senior pets have often already been through the trials and tribulations of housebreaking and basic obedience training. Kevin, for example, has mastered the art of leash walking and understands basic commands. Adopting a senior pet means skipping the sometimes-challenging early stages of pet ownership and enjoying the rewards of a well-mannered companion.
3. Health Awareness and Vet Care: While it’s true that senior pets may require additional care, their age also means that any potential health issues are more likely to be known and managed. Animal shelters, such as Great Plains SPCA, invest time and resources into ensuring senior pets receive the necessary medical attention. Kevin, with the support of the shelter’s medical team, has received regular check-ups, vaccinations, and appropriate care for any age-related conditions. Adopting a senior pet often means having a clear understanding of their medical history and any ongoing treatments they may need.
4. Gratitude and Unconditional Love: Senior pets often possess an unmatched ability to express gratitude and unconditional love. Having experienced life’s ups and downs, they are incredibly appreciative of the second chance they are given when adopted. The bond formed with a senior pet is truly special, as they will be forever grateful for the love and care they receive in their golden years. Kevin, with his gentle eyes and wagging tail, represents the countless senior pets waiting to bring joy and love into someone’s life.
5. Transforming Lives: Adopting a senior pet has the power to transform lives, both for the pet and the adopter. For the pet, finding a forever home in their twilight years means experiencing comfort, stability, and love. For the adopter, the joy and fulfillment of giving a senior pet a chance at a happy retirement can be immeasurable. By sharing Kevin’s story and advocating for senior pet adoption, we can make a difference in the lives of these deserving animals and inspire others to do the same.

It’s hard to believe that this boy doesn’t have a place to call home, but we are dedicated to finding the perfect family for him. After years of the unknown, he deserves nothing less than the best for however many years he chooses to bless us with. If you are interested in being that family for Kevin or any of our other senior pets, please reach out to our Adoptions Team, adoptions@greatplainsspca.org or (913) 831-7722. If you are unable to adopt, your support of all our homeless pets is immensely appreciated.

The post Embracing the Golden Years: Adoptable Senior Shelter Pets appeared first on Great Plains SPCA.

It’s me, Scooby… It has been 161 long and lonely days since I arrived at Great Plains SPCA, and not a single person has asked to meet me. Every day, as I watch people walk past my kennel, I wag my tail and hope that today will be the day someone stops to notice me. I put my best paw forward, trying to show them my gentle nature, my loyalty, and my eagerness to please. I’ve seen many other furry friends come and go, tails wagging, smiles on their faces as their new owners take them home. But sadly, no one gives me even a passing glance.

I don’t know why I ended up here in the first place. Maybe my previous family couldn’t take care of me anymore, or perhaps they didn’t understand just how special I am. But let me tell you, Diary, I am a good boy through and through. I have so much love to give, and all I need is a chance to show it.

It’s not that I don’t appreciate the shelter staff and volunteers—they have been wonderful to me. They give me food, take me for walks, and shower me with affection. They even took me on a car ride to a new place to lift my spirits. But there’s a longing in my heart for a place I can call home forever. I yearn for a chance to cuddle up on a cozy couch, go on leisurely strolls, and spend quality time bonding with my human companion.

You see, Diary, I’ve come to realize that I would thrive best in a quiet and calm environment. I get a little anxious around children and other pets, and that’s why I’m searching for a family without them. I know it may seem like a tall order, but I believe there’s someone out there who will understand my needs and see the incredible companion I can be.

Diary, I dream of finding a family who understands that I’m not just a pet; I’m a part of their lives, their family. Together, we can create beautiful memories and embark on exciting adventures. I’ll be the furry companion who listens without judgment and brings joy to even the gloomiest of days.

So, Diary, as I close this entry, I’m holding onto the hope that my forever family is out there, searching for me as desperately as I am searching for them. I hope they will see beyond the numbers and give me a chance to be their devoted companion. Until that day comes, I’ll keep wagging my tail, wearing my best smile, and trying my best to not lose hope.

Yours hopefully,

Scooby

PS – If you would like to meet me, just call or email the wonderful people at the Pet Adoption Center! You can check out my profile here.

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