Zoe

Hello Molly and everyone at Saving Grace,

We adopted a beautiful Doberman puppy in November 2008. You all know her as Dallas. We call her Zoe.

Zoe has taken over our home, our bed, and our hearts! She is sassy, smart and so sweet. Our neighbor has had a lifelong fear of dogs. She asked to start walking Zoe as a puppy as a way to get over her fear. She and Zoe are now best buddies. It's so cool to see our 65 year old neighbor walking an 85 lb. Doberman!

We welcomed our son, Logan, in August 2009. Zoe is quite the Mother Hubbard. She comes to get me if I don't respond to Logan's cries quick enough for her :)

I could tell you so many stories of how much Zoe has enriched our lives. We are so thankful to share our lives with her. Thank you so much for saving her!

Pam, Chris, Logan, Zoe, and Boone

Grover

Hi, Molly!

I wanted to give you an update on Grover. (By the way, I decided to keep Grover as his name which he definitely knows now.) It is hard to believe I have had him for about 4 months. Time has flown by! He is doing well and is a happy boy.

As you know, he loves to be petted and sit in your lap. Grover is willing to share my lap with my cat so everyone is getting along well. He is very sweet and is a quiet dog. He barks when I come home and when the doorbell rings but otherwise he is quiet. He loves to go for walks and his step picks up when he sees other dogs and people. He wants to say hi to all dogs but they aren't always interested in him.

He also loves to go for rides in the car and so I try to take him with me on errands when I can. He didn't seem to know any commands and so we are taking obedience classes. He is learning quickly. I was thinking of taking a pet therapy class so that we could go to nursing homes since he loves to sit in laps and be petted.

I have mentioned Saving Grace to several people who I meet on our walks and they told me they are interested in adopting.

Donna

Mr. Sparky

Dear Molly and Crew at Saving Grace!

Well, it has been almost 2 yrs. since you last heard from me. You named me "Boats" after I had been found wandering the streets near Johnsonville and had been brought to you. I had evidently been on my own for some time; malnourished, heartworm positive, parasites, a leg injury, skin rashes---gosh, you name it, I had it!! I was also so shy, I was practically afraid of my own shadow! I did not even know how to walk on a leash.

I had the most beautiful soulful brown eyes though and that was my "Saving Grace." My adoptive owner, Lynn, took one look at me - and it was "all she wrote!" I had her hook, line and sinker!! She took me home to a big fenced-in yard, a warm home with two sheepskin beds to choose from, some very fine grub and lots of peace, quiet and love. She also gave me time to adjust to a normal life. I loved her from day one!

It took some time, but I was finally healed from all my ailments. I got my thyroid issues under control, and I did learn how to walk with a leash!! Did I mention I was bathed and groomed and, I must say, am looking mighty handsome!! She renamed me Mr. Sparky. I was so melancholy and seemed so beaten down that she felt I needed a name to live up to!! I still am a quiet dog. I don't bark. I don't growl. I do whine from time to time to get everyone's attention. I have this wonderful life now. I walk with her without a leash along the creek every morning. I love to roll in the grass, and when it is warmer, I meander down into the creek and plop down for a good cooling off.

Molly, I am one very happy Golden Retriever. Thanks for saving me and getting me a good home. I wish all my canine friends could be so lucky!

Warm hugs,

Mr. Sparky
and
Lynn Rast
Wake Forest, NC

Archie

Thank you for rescuing Archie although I am not sure who rescued who! Archie is a really wonderful, sweet, loving, fun companion. At this moment he is sleeping on his back next to my husband.

My husband had a stroke 4 years ago and Archie has brought many smiles to his face. Archie is the 3rd canine from Saving Grace to move into our neighborhood and he elicits many complimentary comments.

Thank you again!

Marilynn Jerry and the rest of our family

Tater

Molly,

Here's a photo I took today of Tater with his "big brother" Beau. They're getting along very well, although Tater can be a real brat sometimes, like any pesky little brother! Not sure you can tell from the photos but Tater is starting to fatten up and he is nearly as tall as Beau. He's been a great addition to the family. They both keep my dad company when we're not home. Tater still gets those little bursts of puppy energy, but most of the time he's pretty laid back. When we get ready to walk them, Beau is dancing all around, too excited to even get his leash on, but Tater just sits there calmly, waiting for the door to open.

We just wanted to let you know how much we appreciate you for what you do, both for the animals and for the lucky families who get to take them home. We continue to tell everyone we know who is looking for a dog about Saving Grace. Thanks for everything!

Terri

Murphy

Dear Molly,

Had to email you to tell you THANK YOU so much for bringing Murphy into my life! He is everything and more than your description on the Web site. He is settling in so nicely and everybody in the neighborhood just loves him! He is making new friends every day and with his winning personality and wonderful manners, he is bringing joy wherever he goes!

WHAT WONDERFUL WORK you do in the rescue of “God’s creatures, great and small.” Saving Grace is an exceptional place - what a wonderful set-up you have and your home is full of wonder, creativity and is just so special. It was great to meet you and I am spreading the word so that you can continue the wonderful work you are doing.

Thank you so very much!

Theresa Vargas (Terry)

Smiley

I discovered Saving Grace's Web site in Fall 2009.  There were so many beautiful and unique animals available, I couldn't help but wish that I could just adopt as many as could fit in my car.  After spending some time thinking about my life in an apartment, my priorities, my lonely old cat and my work life balance, I made some changes. I purchased a house. 

It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single woman in possession of a townhouse must be in want of a dog. When Smiley's face came up, I knew that I had to meet her. Just before New Year's Eve, I emailed Saving Grace about coming to meet Smiley.  Molly emailed me back immediately to set up a time and was incredibly helpful in comparing my needs and wants in a canine companion with Smiley's needs and wants.  As an active person, I wanted to make sure that I had a mature dog who wanted to run, walk and hike with me.

Stepping into Saving Grace was like stepping into a dog mecca.  There were dogs running around everywhere - each with their own personality and interests.  Some greeted me at the gate, some hardly noticed that I had come in, others were so engaged in their own games of cat and mouse that they couldn't be disturbed.  And then there was Smiley. She had been picked up by a Wilson County shelter after roaming around without an owner.  At Saving Grace, she had a great shot at finding a forever home.

An English Setter through and through, she spent the first 45 minutes that I was there flushing birds out of one set of trees and into a second set of trees diagonally across the length of the property. She never stopped moving. I was worried that maybe she wasn't friendly, or that she wouldn't get enough exercise with me. When I could tell she was tiring, I knelt down near her and she came right over to me and nuzzled me...and then smiled by baring her teeth. She isn't pretty when she smiles - she looks fierce and aggressive, but with an undeniable sweetness. My heart swelled and I knew that I had found the right dog.  She came home with me that day!
 
We've created a great little life together. While I can't let her flush birds out of the trees 24 hours a day (which is what she would like most), I can walk her many, many times a day so that she can still hone those bird-dog skills. In the evenings, we like to settle in for a little cuddle on the couch while I read, do work, or watch TV. She can be shy and awkward in new situations, but we're working through that to increase her confidence in herself and her confidence in me, as her friend and owner. I can't imagine what life would be like without her.

Saving Grace made all the difference in my adoption experience and I thank them for all that they do for so many dogs just like Smiley. I know that Saving Grace has done wonderful things for animals and people alike.

Sarah

Sophie

I discovered Saving Grace back in the fall when I started to search for my new dog. I had recently lost my 14 year old Dachshund and after a few months of mourning was ready to start the search for my new family member. I have always had Dachshunds and am particularly fond of them; however, I wanted something different – a new start so to speak.

I found Saving Grace on the Internet and this one particular dog struck me as soon as I saw her sweet little face on the Web site. At that time, her name was Fawn (now known as Sophie). I scheduled a visit and had several dogs in mind to see but Fawn (Sophie) really stood out in my mind. I went through the gate and the first dog to run up to me was none other than Fawn! I immediately fell in love with her and pondered my decision a few days before going back to see her again. On my third visit she left with me and life will never be the same again!

Boy, be careful what you wish for because I certainly did get “different” – but all in good ways. She is so full of life and energy that will not or cannot be contained. She has taught me a new level of patience I was not aware of and I love each day as she grows from a puppy to young adulthood.

I am so grateful I found Sophie and thankful for such wonderful organizations like Saving Grace. Even though I have found my new family member, I check the Web site about once a week just to see what dogs have come and gone and keep up with the work being done there. I have bragged about Saving Grace on so many occasions when discussing Sophie I cannot even count. Thank you for making my experience so joyful.

Tammy and Sophie Butler

Violet

I lost my last dog to cancer in October 2008. She was an amazing 12 year old Golden Retriever I had raised from a 10 week old pup. Although I am still grieving, even today, I knew pretty quickly that in order to heal I needed to bring a new canine companion into my life. But my current lifestyle is too busy for the extreme demands of a puppy or even those of many young dogs. I am a busy, single professional. I don’t have time to come home once or twice a day to let the dog out. I travel a bit for my job, so lots of time in training classes would be difficult and my new dog would need to be okay with having the pet sitter come in or going to stay at someone else’s house (which might entail being around other cats, dogs, kids, or seniors in wheelchairs).

Given my long work days, I didn’t want to have to leave my new friend locked up in a crate all day. I have an old cat that already lives in my household and I frequently pet sit for friends by either going to stay at their houses or bringing all their animals to mine. What I was really looking for was simply “a vessel for the giving and receiving of love.” How could I find such a perfect animal?

The answer to all of this is, of course, adopt an older dog! A dog older than five has usually passed the point of chewing up your shoes or your couch because they are bored. They only need to go out to the bathroom once or twice in the morning before work, when you get home from work and then before bedtime. They don’t generally need hours of exercise each day to keep themselves from going crazy, unless they have breed-specific needs. And probably most importantly for me, adult dogs have often lived enough life to be pretty zen about most things like traveling, other critters, children, etc. Even if not super laid back, an older dog will have developed their inherent personality already.

The personality assessment process done by the fosters that work so tirelessly for rescues like Saving Grace will have figured out what that is. So, in short, you often have a better idea of what you are getting with an older dog. Was Molly able to match me with the perfect dog? You know she did! I brought Violet, a 30 lb., approximately 7 year old Spaniel-terrier-mystery mix into my life in November 2008. We have been together for a little over a year. She is everything I wanted in a dog and more! Have there been any challenges to the older dog thing? Well, she has some little “imperfections” relative to age - for example, her teeth could stand to be cleaned and we have to watch her weight. And perhaps she isn’t quite as pretty as she was when she was a svelte young thing but frankly I am not either. She is easy and loving and healthy, and I expect many more years of happiness and joy with Violet.

So if you have a busy family, other pets, older adults, or are simply an overworked single person like me, think twice about that older dog you passed by. They might just be the dog that will rescue you! Kristen Kostelnik

Ruby

Dear Molly and everyone at Saving Grace,

I hope that you are doing well. I’ve attached a recent photo of Ruby to let you know that she is healthy and happy and living the good life! I got her from Saving Grace in August of 2004. She was called Tippy then. She had recently had surgery to remove her leg that had been badly broken and had mended very badly. She was in rough shape when you got her. You saw all the love and courage that she had in her and you saved her for me. I am beyond thankful for that. I know that she is too.

Ruby is an angel on earth! She shares her love and positive attitude with everyone she comes in contact with, human or otherwise. Ruby has gone through SO much but she still sees the world as a wonderful place where anything is possible. She is my hero!

I’ve been sending $20 each month to you and I hope this does a little bit to help Saving Grace stay in business. I owe you all so much. Thank you!

Please take care and be well – Chuck Grantham

Teddy

Teddy has been a great addition to our family. We already had two dogs when we decided to rescue one. Molly was wonderful and forthcoming in helping us find the right dogs to fit in with our children and our other 2 dogs! Teddy was love at first sight. He just adores our kids and has been a constant playmate for our younger dog Annie. Despite Annie outweighing Teddy by some 40 lbs., they play together for hours, wrestling endlessly. A big thank you to Molly and Saving Grace!!

Henry - Tucker

Hello Molly -- I thought I'd give you an update on how I'm doing. We had a LONG but uneventful drive to Pennsylvania, although I was quite agitated at first when I realized you weren't getting in the car with me! But I was a good boy and did all I was supposed to do at rest stops. Everyone wanted to stop and pet me - they thought I was so cute!

I'm now well settled into my new home and routines. I get a lot of love, cuddles, and attention from Anne and her mother. I have beds upstairs and down, as well as a crate for when everyone goes out. I just got a new car seat which I love 'cause I now can see out the windows. After several nights on Anne's bed, I decided I was more comfortable in my own bed next to hers, but I get in her bed every morning for a snuggle. Maybe when she's in her own queen bed there'll be more room and I'll change my mind.

I had my first vet visit in PA and did fine, except for traces of hookworm for which I took some extra medication. I have lots of toys, Kongs, dentabones and Toro rawhide bones. My favorite toy is my tennis ball, which I stripped of all its fuzz immediately, but haven't managed to puncture yet -- and believe me, I've tried! I get a walk every day except when it's really raining, and I usually get to greet lots of dogs in their yards. I've also been to the dog park several times. Yesterday was the first day it's been really warm here, and there were tons of dogs to visit at the park.

The resident dachshund, Ginger, isn't nearly as social as the dogs at Saving Grace, and we had a tense week or two at the beginning. She's been here a long time, is older, looks at me like I'm crazy when I chase the ball, and won't cuddle--although I'm getting closer every day, 'cause I really want to be friends. But we get along fine and take walks and sit on the sofa together (occasionally). We follow Anne everywhere - we're afraid the other one will get a treat or a toy or a trip outside that the other didn't get. This has been hard on Ginger - she's used to sleeping all the time, and I keep her on her toes. I even got her to romp around with me once. Anne and her mother were amazed; they said Ginger NEVER did that before, so I think I'm a good influence!

All in all, I'm doing great in my new place. And Anne thanks you from the bottom of her heart for giving her such a good dog (that's me!). Also, she says thank you for the card.

xxxxoooo -- Henry/Tucker

Q Tip

I found Q-Tip on the Saving Grace Web site and knew he was the dog for me! His sweet face and loving eyes had me at first sight. I met Q-Tip on September 29, 2008 and brought dog treats with me to Saving Grace for our meeting. The only treat that would interest him was cheese. Molly said that cheese was his favorite, so it has been his "special" treat daily.

Q-Tip is the sweetest and most loving dog and has been spoiled by his Aunt Kim with all his toys and scarves that she has given him. His favorite spot is under the kitchen table on his dog bed where he felt safe the first night he came home with me. Q-Tip never misses a chance to ride in the car so his favorite word is "ride."

Thank you, Molly, and all your helpers for making it possible for Q-Tip and other dogs to have a loving home. Q-Tip is a blessing and has brought more happiness to me than I could ever imagine! Angie Payne

Risa

Hi - Here's a picture of Risa sitting on her favorite cushion on the window seat in a very sunny warm spot overlooking the water in Tiverton, RI. Life couldn't be better!! We love her soooooooo much and it was worth every mile that we drove to get her in NC. Thanks so much, Christine, Tom, Alex & Luc Bandoni

Sophie

Sophie came into our life on November 17, 2008. We have deemed this to be her birthday and the beginning of a miracle in our lives. We had always wanted to get a dog someday, but there was always an excuse why it wasn't the 'right time.' We were committed to rescuing a dog when the time came to adopt a pet. As it turns out, Sophie rescued us! She put out a spiritual message that the time to adopt her was now. She told us in doggie language that someday is not a date on the calendar. At the same time Sophie's message was headed our way, one of our patients told us about Saving Grace. When we visited the Web site, there was Sophie, staring at us with those beautiful brown eyes. We learned that when she first came to Saving Grace, she was matted with dreadlocks. She had stayed at Saving Grace for two months before we got her message. Molly told us that this was an unusually long time for a poodle not to be adopted. The delay, as it turns out, was because she was waiting for us. She was shy but loving to begin with. When we first met Sophie at Saving Grace, she timidly wagged her tail, gently nuzzled our hands and gave us a gentle lick. We were hooked! She has been such a wonderful inspiration to us. She woofs, at least for a while, if she is left alone, but she is with us most of the time. She comes to the office with us every day. We have a medical practice. She has her own name plate which reads "Dr. Sophia Jane." We keep her in her own space for most of the morning and afternoon. We let her roam when there is only one patient left to see at the end of our office hours in the morning and again at the end of the day. She gives a 'second opinion' as she greets everyone and wags her tail. We have a sign in our office that says 'Woof spoken here.' We go for long walks in the morning, at mid-day and again in the evening. We usually run with her for several miles in the morning twice weekly and then we walk to and from the office with her on the other days. She is happy, happy, happy! Thank you so much for being there in her time of need. We love Saving Grace. Sophie's forever parents, Mark McClure and Cheri Elliott

Rosie

We are enjoying Rosie! She has brought many smiles in the past few weeks. This is our first family dog. She is a nice companion. Rosie just wants to be with us whether we are running outside or watching a movie. I can tell that she is getting more comfortable with us. Her energy level has increased and she is more and more playful with the kids.

Phoebe

On September 23 I suddenly lost my beloved black lab Jordan. To say that I was devastated is a huge understatement. My mother kept telling me that adopting another dog would help me. I was skeptical but finally gave in and began my search for another lab. I contacted Molly about a yellow lab that she had but the dog already had gotten a home but she did have another one. So Mom and I drove up to Wake Forest from Myrtle Beach to meet the yellow lab. She was a great dog but I kept comparing her to my perfect dog, Jordan. I went home in tears missing her even more. While we were there, a cute little rat terrier named Phoebe sat in both my Mom's lap and mine giving us lots of kisses. I didn't think much about it at the time but the more I thought of my visit, the more I longed to give Phoebe a forever home. I contacted Molly and told her that I would be back up to pick her up. The first night was tough being alone with my dachshund mix and fiance's male lab but the next morning, I looked into her beautiful little eyes and fell completely in love with her. She has stolen the heart of everyone that she has met, even a young man that I work with who is scared of dogs. He comes in and holds her on his breaks. She is a truly amazing little girl and sleeps cuddled up to me all night long. With the cold weather coming in, she will dive under the covers! She is so entertaining. Although I still miss Jordan, the love that I have found with Phoebe has made a huge difference. I discovered that I needed her as much as she needed me. So if you are thinking of adopting a dog from Molly and Saving Grace, my advice is DO IT! You will not be sorry! Thank you Molly for helping me find this sweet little terrier. I couldn't love her more and I owe it all to you!

Daisy Mae

Dear Molly and other Saving Grace Humans,
I wanted to write and tell you how well I am doing in my forever family! I have a human sister and brother who love to play with me all the time and give me lots of kisses and hugs. I love to play fetch with them…but they are little and sometimes it’s hard to tell who is throwing the ball and who is fetching the ball…but it works itself out. I also like to take late night walks with my mommy and I jump up with all fours off the ground when I see that pink leash! I have been a very good girl here and remembered all of the lovely manners I was taught at Saving Grace. I have proved myself to be a real southern belle! My mommy talks about me a lot and says how beautiful I am. She also says she doesn’t know what she would have done without me…besides have a lot more room on the bed at night…what can I say…i'm a princess and I need my beauty sleep…I just take up more room than most in the process…! I have turned all the couches, clothes and other cloth materials in our house a lovely shade of “yellow-lab chique”, but my mommy doesn’t care…she loves me, loose fur and all! I really am happy here and I can’t seem to get that thing on my rear end to stop wagging! Thank you for all that you did for me…and for keeping me healthy and happy while I stayed with you!

Hugs and Licks,
Daisy Mae
(The stunningly beautiful yellow lab with the six cutest puppies you’ve ever seen!!)

Elliedog

Molly,
I adopted Ellie from you 4 1/2 years ago. I remember the first time I saw she and her siblings. They were all yellow, almost white in color and smiling at me! "How would I choose?" You pointed to Ellie and whispered, as if not to let the other puppies hear, "She is the sweetest one". That was good enough for me!

She came home with me that very night and has been an invaluable part of my life ever since. She is honestly funny and has a sense of humor. She is very loving and has a good heart. She is well behaved and loves her big feline brother Tate...she is actually protective of him!

I can not thank you enough for all you do. After all if it were not for you I would not have Ellie in my family!

Take Care!
Mary-Stuart Harrell
&
Ellie aka: Elliedog & The Bumbling Bumble Dog

Pouchi

From the Desk of Pouchi Roo Pearson, Esquire:
Dear Molly and the gang,
I just wanted to send a little note to let everyone at Saving Grace know that I am doing great with my new adopted parents, the Pearsons. As you remember, the day that mom and dad came to see me at the shelter I wasn't doing too good. I was very sick -- a result of my old life as a stray. Everyone thought I might even have cancer because my white blood count was so low. Thankfully, I was able to muster all my cuteness and won the hearts of the Pearsons. They fell head over heels in love and decided to adopt me in spite of my unpredictable future. Well, I'm happy to report that at my latest vet examine I was given a clean bill of health! We have been celebrating nonstop. We go for bike rides (I ride in mom's basket), kayaking excursions (even though I can dog paddle, mom and dad do most of the work while I just chill in a lap), we even go to the beach. I don't want to brag, but I'm even somewhat of a celebrity among the art crowd here in Wilmington. I've fallen into a group of artists at the ACME art studios where my mom paints all day, I'll put it this way, they all want to do my portrait.

I sleep, I eat, I poop, I pee...life is sweet! My prayer is that more people will visit Saving Grace and adopt the other dogs there. I am constantly showered with hugs, kisses, snuggles, tickles, belly scratches, and cuddles. Life is too short not to love and be loved by someone.

Much love,
Pouchi

Lilly

Dear Molly,

I LOVE IT here! I heard my new family talking about me. They said they were thrilled that they adopted me from Saving Grace. They said I am so sweet, play nicely with my English Cocker siblings, and that I was obviously socialized perfectly with other dogs at Saving Grace. My Vet gave me a thorough physical, showered me with kisses (he has a thing for "southern girls") and said I was in great shape. I got the regular puppy shots and medicine, but I didn't care - they gave me lots of cookies while they were poking and prodding.

My master, Rebecca, takes me on walks and frequent trips outside while I get the hang of this house breaking thing. I'm doing well and should have it down pat in a few weeks. The cockers show me how things are "done" here. I love curling up on Rebecca's lap to take my nap. She says I'm her "doughnut doggie" when I do this. My favorite napping spots are on her lap or in the sunroom where the sunshine warms me up. They took some "Glamour Shots" of me that they thought you would like.

Please tell all my pals at Saving Grace that I am very happy in New York. My family loves me very much. Tell Hop-A-Long that my family LOVED him when they visited Saving Grace, and if we had room in the car we would have snuck him in also. He was amazingly sweet and they hope he finds a great home soon. He is very special.

Gotta go - I think I hear something hitting my bowl......

Love,
Lilly (Maybelle)

Sandy

We could not be happier to have Sandy as part of our family! She has only been with us for about 4 weeks but it feels like we've had her for so much longer because she is so well behaved, calm, and such a joy to have around. Sandy was lacking in confidence when we first brought her home and was initially very nervous around other dogs. We're proud to say though that she has really come out of her shell and now is always curious and excited when she sees a new dog (regardless of size)! She even has a couple buddies in the neighborhood that she plays ball with in the mornings and she is able to keep up with the best of them! We are also constantly amazed at how well behaved she is - she is now potty trained (only took a few days to get her trained), she sleeps well in her crate at night, is a great companion on walks as she doesn't pull on the leash at all, and is super friendly with any new person she meets and even "shakes" for them. We are also proud to say that even our vet was amazed by how mellow and calm she has been on her vet visits and had nothing but praise for her behavior. She also now knows sit, stay, and we are working on "come." She is such a sweet girl who loves belly rubs, sitting on your lap (she doesn't quite realize she is a little too big for laps), and snuggling whenever possible! Thank you Molly and Saving Grace for bringing Sandy into our lives! - Beth and Adithya

Daisy

In December of 2004 Saving Grace saved a litter of puppies and their mom from a high kill shelter. Now in 2007 one of those puppies, Daisy Mae, helps save the lives of people who are in a hospital just 1 mile from that shelter. Daisy was adopted in February 2005. Her foster mom, Shawn Kearsey, introduced me to the world of therapy dogs. Daisy Mae introduced me and my other fur kids to her world of perpetual happiness. I can’t imagine life before Daisy. She does more than just compliment the personalities who live here. Daisy Mae brings much joy and laughter into the house, provides companionship and comfort to those in hospice care, and assists those in a hospital behavioral unit who need help finding their way in the world. She completes us as a family and gladly gives her affections to others in need. Saving the life of this one dog has positively changed the lives of many. Thank you, Molly. Deborah and Therapy Dogs: Princess Priscilla, Daisy Mae, Dickens, and kitties: Nutmeg, Charlie, Karma and Mr. Kitty

Scarlet

Every dog is a special and wonderful dog, but rescue dogs are the best! They seems to know and appreciate the fact that they are being given a second chance at life, and they are so full of love and life. Scarlet is small in size, but her personality is huge, and her love of life and the outdoors is contagious! I always thought I wanted a big dog, but Scarlet is the perfect size for me right now, and like I said, she makes up for in her personality what whe lacks in physical size. Scarlet is a sweet and loving dog who likes to sleep in, and is never needy. She is very easy and low maintenance, and the only time she begs is when there is a Gourmutts cookie in the room and she has not gotten a taste yet :) I often wonder about Scarlet's past life; if she has had puppies, and where they are now, who her owners were before she was found wandering the streets. Scarlet is a wonderful hunter and if I let her, she will spend literally hours in the woods, digging and chewing through roots and kicking rocks out of the way, when she is on the scent of a critter! One time she got lucky and there was a mole right under the surface and I was amazed at her speed and skill of killing it. I can just see her roaming the streets and woods and killing small animals to eat, and living out in the wild. I am so glad that she doesn't have to survive that way anymore, and that we found each other through Saving Grace! I am so glad that Saving Grace found her in the shelter and rescued her, and that they suggested her as a good dog for me. She makes my life so much more fun and full and exciting. She is a loyal, sweet, sassy and strong little dog, and she brings so much love to my life. So many people that have seen her say how cute and sweet she is, she is a real attraction, and I always tell people that she is a rescue dog and how wonderful they are!! With all of the dogs in shelters around the world, it is such a shame that people still feel the need to breed dogs. Rescue dogs, and mutts in general, are more hardy, just as beautiful and have wonderful personalities! I hope more people will decide to rescue a dog from Saving Grace!" I hope things are going well down in Raleigh! I havn't talked to Karen or Jake in a long time, and I hope all is well for them as well as you... please send my love to everyone! School is going well but it is a really hard program and keeping me really busy! I hope to work in a wildlife rehab place this summer, for my externship for school. I want to thank you again for the chance to have a wonderful dog like Scarlet! Please let me know if the pics don't come through for some reason. Thanks again Molly!

Izzy

Izzy is the perfect example of making sure the family fits the dog. She was found running down the highway at about 7-8 weeks of age (all 8 pounds of her) and brought to Wake Forest Animal Hospital by a Good Samaritan. She was an extremely undisciplined feisty Miniature Pincher/Italian Greyhound mix. When no one came to claim her, Saving Grace became her new temporary home. At the time, I was in my third year of vet school at NC State and very involved in helping Saving Grace run. My home was usually the foster home for the ill or very shy as my husband, Phil and I could provide more individual attention to the needy dogs. For a week Molly kept insisting I come see this new puppy she had. At the time her only name was the nickname "piranha." Finally, Phil and I had the time to go meet her it was love at first sight, especially for Phil. At Saving Grace, Izzy was seriously over stimulated. She had so much puppy energy and there was so much to look at and do that Izzy hardly slept. Phil, who usually rarely had a say in who we fostered, actually requested that we take her home to foster. Once home, Izzy slept for almost 4 days straight and she did most of that in Phil's lap. Once rested, we began to see the mischievous side of her come out again. Life with Izzy kept us on our toes, she was an escape artist and extremely difficult to house break. But we were head over heels in love. Whenever we have a foster dog there is a degree of attachment, usually more by myself than by my husband. But, when Izzy was adopted we were both devastated. We tried to tell ourselves it was for the best as we already had three large dogs of our own and certainly did not need a 4th. A couple of days after Izzy had left, Phil asked if we could keep Izzy if for some reason she was returned. As fate would have it, seven days after the adoption, we got a call. Izzy was being nippy and obstinate in her new home, traits that we had overcome with discipline, firm leadership, and socialization with our three dogs. It was clear that she needed a different situation and so Izzy come home one final time. Izzy is now four years old and is a very special part of our family. She sleeps under the covers with us, a privilege she had to earn back upon her return. She excelled at her obedience class and would be an awesome agility competitor if only I had the time to train her for it. Izzy was the perfect fit for our family, and later that year her previous adoptive family found their perfect fit.

Ripley

Ripley was adopted to be a playmate for my other young dog Molly. I found June Bug (who is now called Ripley) on Saving Grace's petfinder page, and because of their fostering program, they were able to give us a clear picture of Ripley's personality. She's been a wonderful addition to the family, very loving and playful. She has also been good for my older dog, Honey. Honey is now semi-retired from the roughhousing and enjoys watching her sisters in their games. Thanks for all your help with the adoption, and I would certainly recommend Saving Grace to anyone considering adoption. Ripley's been good for all of us - even the cats.

Carolina

We've always adopted all of our family pets from rescues. Carolina has been an absolute peach and hands down this has been the most successful and supportive adoption we've done through a rescue. SavingGrace is unique in the way that Molly and her team cares for these sweet babies and stays in contact with the families afterward. We even stay in touch with Carolina's sister's "family," sharing photos and stories. Carolina had a rough life before being rescued by SavingGrace, but now she is a fluff ball with the sweetest disposition. She is loved by everyone who walks in our door. The funniest thing about this little girl is that her tongue doesn't fit all the way in her mouth. Awake or asleep, her little pink tongue sticks out.

Dixie

Dixie Saving Grace Bowman...that is what we call her. Her dark eyes are like marbles and sparkle with excitement. She is a bundle of black, wavy fur with a wagging, white, feather-tipped tail that reminds us of how happy she is and how happy our family is to have her. We are the Bowman family- Brian, Diana, Anna(10), Aaron (8), Ella(2) and Dixie(1), adopted March 29, 2007. God led us to Dixie after many years of prayer about owning a dog because of pet allergies in the family. I spent countless hours researching hypo-allergenic breeds. We dog sat and volunteered at a shelter for exposure to determine possible breeds that might fit our family. We narrowed our search to only a few...westies, poodles, and schanuzers. On the afternoon of March 27, 2007, Dad came home and we held a family meeting. He announced that we could get a dog. I had already been looking on Petfinder and praying that when the time was right, God would bless us to find the perfect dog for our family. After the meeting we rushed inside and once again pulled up Petfinder. The first dog we saw was Dixie. I couldn't believe that her breed was westie-poodle. As soon as I laid eyes on her, I looked at my husband and said, "This is our dog." We immediately contacted Saving Grace via email. That morning at 3:30am, I couldn't sleep, so I got up and had a reply from Molly stating that Dixie was available. I filled out the application and sent it. The next morning we scheduled a visit. We could hardly wait for the following day to go see her. As soon as we saw her and saw the way she reacted to our children, we knew she was the dog for us. We brought her home that night and fell in love with our newest addition. She has settled in and made our home, her home. We are so grateful to the family who raised her for the first ten months of her life. You did a great job! It is obvious you spent a lot of time caring for and training her. She was so easy to transition to our home. We are equally thankful for SAVING GRACE and Molly. We love the name Grace...it is Ella's middle name. The real reason the name is so special to our family is we know that God's grace is sufficient for us and He supplies all our needs, but sometimes, as in the case with Dixie, he also gives us the desires of our hearts.

Shiloh

I REALLY LOVE SHILOH, HE IS THE PERFECT PET AND JUST WHAT I WANTED, QUIET AND LOVING AND NO TROUBLE. I TAKE HIM TO CAROLINA HOUSE TO SEE MY FRIEND RUTH AND HE SITS ON HER LAP FOR A COUPLE HOURS. HARD TO TELLWHICH OF THE TWO IS THE MOST CONTENT. I COULD NOT BE MORE PLEASED - THANK YOU FOR FINDING SHILOH FOR ME.

Dirk

We wanted to add a lab to our family, but with both parents working outside the home, didn’t feel we had the time to devote the amount of attention required to deal with all the challenges to train a new puppy. Molly worked with us closely to find the right dog, and Dirk has been a perfect fit for our family. Some of the issues that Molly suggested we consider have really proved to be a blessing in our decision, including the fact that adopted dogs who have been strays like Dirk have been through some tough times and really seem to appreciate it when they are brought into a loving home and strive to please their new owners. Molly worked closely with us and the local vet to make sure Dirk’s medical records were current, and emailed repeatedly to check up on us. He was also already crate trained when we got him which made it so easy to gradually integrate him into our home. We couldn’t be happier with our new family member. We highly recommend that you consider adoption and Saving Grace for your family pet. Dan, Becky, Drew & Graham Wilson Youngsville, NC

Zoe

She is doing wonderfully, she has a large vocabulary now, she understands: Go Peepee outside wanna a cookie go to your bed want breakfast and many others. The only issue we are still having is she tears up magazines when I am away. Maybe she is trying to read. We just got back from her first doggie vacation and you didn't tell me she can drive a boat. (See picture). i have never seen a dog take to boating so quickly. She wasn't scared one bit. She is an amazing little doggie and she gives me so much affectionate and joy. Please tell the lady at Johnson County that brings all the good dogs to you that Zoe is very happy she was rescued and so am I. It breaks my heart to think she may have been put to sleep and no one would ever had the opportunity to enjoy her. Everyone we meet loves her and they all tell me that I am lucky to have her. Well I am lucky to have her, but it's people like you and the Johnson County folks that make these it possible for people like me to have such a sweet little companion in my life.

Colby

I had been looking for a dog for a few weeks. I knew I wanted to adopt one instead of buying one from a breeder, as I had adopted one in the past from the SPCA when I lived in NY and it turned out being a great decision. When I came across Colby's picture, I couldn't resist and my search ended there. I called Molly to set up a time to visit with Colby and once I saw him, I knew he would be coming home with me. Molly was very helpful throughout the entire process. She never once pressured me to adopt him, and she had very useful information for me to use with him if I did decide to take him home. I have had Colby for about 2 months now and he is great! He is very good-natured, playful, and just the sweetest thing ever! Molly hosted a picnic recently and invited all the owners of animals adopted through her, and it was a great success in my oppinion. Colby and I had a really good time and I would recommend Saving Grace to anyone looking to adopt an animal. Molly is great with the animals and Saving Grace definately lives up to it's name.

Sugar Lips

Dear Molly Thanks for bringing me to Saving Grace so that I could find my new home. I have a Mom and 2 little girls who love to hug and kiss me every day. Everyone loves my name and thinks I am the sweetest dog they've ever met. The cat who has been here for 15 years.......not so much! But I'm sure I will win him over. I love my beds, my girls' bean bag chairs, the couch and even my very chic crate. I have a fancy "girly" collar complete with a rhinestone name tag. Life is good! Much Love, Sugar Lips Molly, Thank you so much. Sugar Lips is a dream! She's a quiet, loving, and often silly snuggle-bug who likes to lean on us, get in our laps (she thinks she's a cat), put her head on our knees and she smiles! She has come around from an overly shy girl to one who makes eye contact with me at all times. People constantly stop to pet her and ask me more about her. She was not at all what I thought I was looking for when I came out and yet she's EXACTLY what I was looking for and perfect for my family. We are so lucky that you saw her for the beautiful, sweet girl you knew she could be if given a chance, and picked her to come to Saving Grace. She has literally blossomed in every way. We love her very much and she obviously loves us right back. You and everyone there are as amazing and special and wonderful! Sincerely, Stephanie, Anna and Ava Burgess