Cherry arrived at Clermont County Animal Shelter back in September, and her appearance truly matched her name.
Her small body was bright red from a severe case of mange, and she was understandably terrified of her new environment.
It took some time for the shelter staff and volunteers to help her feel safe, but once they did, she transformed into an incredible little dog.
A Journey to Trust
“She was hard to get out of her kennel because she was so fearful,” Megan Dashley, a shelter volunteer, told The Dodo. “She had to be carried outside by most volunteers, but once outside, away from the noise, she came to life.
At the park bench that first day I took her out, I realized her infinite love for balls. Basketballs, weighted medicine balls, tennis balls—nothing stood a chance with Cherry. As time passed, she let her guard down and became a favorite among the volunteers. She’d roughhouse and play in the group, spreading her light wherever she went.”
After a while, Cherry found a wonderful foster family, and everyone hoped it would turn into her forever home. Unfortunately, unforeseen circumstances brought Cherry back to the shelter, and this time, she’s not coping either.
“She’s not herself,” volunteers shared on Facebook. “She’s not comfortable. She’s not confident.”
A Cry for Stability
Poor Cherry has been trembling in her kennel, feeling confused and longing for a family to love her. She has been adopted and returned several times, with multiple foster homes during her stay at the shelter. What she needs now more than anything is the stability of a forever home.
“Outside of the shelter, Cherry shines so bright,” Dashley said. “She smiles from ear to ear when she is comfortable, happy, and at peace.”
Cherry is looking for an active family who will keep up with her energetic spirit. She’d love a yard to run in or nearby spots for outdoor adventures. A home with a calm, younger dog could be the perfect companion for her.
Everyone is Rooting for Cherry
The shelter staff is wholeheartedly cheering for Cherry, hoping she finds the safe, loving home she deserves. They know the right family is out there for her.
“This girl is a national treasure and a hidden gem,” Dashley said. “Someone would be SO LUCKY to be in her aura and experience the love she has to give.”