07/13/2025
“One man’s trash is another man’s treasure” Meet the dog “formerly known as Shaggy” who is located and is available for adoption . He was my Saturday Project Dog. RARELY do I know what kind of project I’m getting, but when I saw his name in my appointment book…ASSUMPTIONS WERE MADE. Shaggy is a Sarah McLaughlin song and video waiting to happen, he was a gross,sad mess, and it hurt my heart to see him in this condition. But then there’s the solace , once the clippers are in the pelt, breaking the cycle. Peeling away the temporary damage that has been done. Shaggy has obviously been neglected, but Shaggy knows love, not just love from myself his groomer, or his ACO (he perked his ears up when he heard the familiar sound of the Animal Control Truck pull into the parking lot) he adjusts very well. He knows how to give and receive love, and he does so with healthy intent. He is another diamond in the rough of millions of discarded, unwanted pets that land in our nations shelters; and he has won the lotto landing in OUR communities no kill shelter. His tense body quickly relaxed as I peeled his matting off of him as his movements weren’t bound by the confines of his fur anymore. His first opportunity in freedom was to turn around and gently nudge his nose into my face with a shy kiss. He was met with positive words and a nuzzle back. Which opened the door to more shaggy kisses and by the time the grooming session had ended, one of us looked and smelled way better than the other 🤣but alas I had the luxury of going to MY home and showering. Shaggy was handed back over, he was relaxed in the crook of my arm on his back like a baby:soft, sweet,innocent and deserving of all the love available in this world. I would guess he’s a Maltipoo, under 2 years old, and likes men and women. He’s shy at first, and rightfully so. Someone failed him at some point, and I’m so happy to be part of the tribe who gives him the opportunity to be loved and appreciated as he so deserves. Meet Shaggy at the San Clemente Dana Point Animal Shelter, and thank The Pet Project Foundation for giving all of US the opportunity to LOVE HIM.