Lily's Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary
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Happy 'Tails'  Adoption Stories
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Here are some happy faces on adoption day and our adoption stories are below.
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Diggs (now Tiggs) - our final adoption of 2020! 

Diggs (on right) was only with us for one whole week, timing is everything. When one of our volunteers, Lisa came for her shift and met Diggs, she immediately thought he might be the perfect pup for her mom, Erma. A year and a half ago, Erma lost her beloved Harry, a Corgi/Chihuahua mix and was now ready to open her heart again (IF the right dog came along!). Lisa sent her mom a picture. She was very interested and came the next day to meet him. Lisa was right, it was a perfect match! Diggs was just the “right” dog Erma had hoped would come along.

Soon after, Diggs went to his new home. Erma lives on the same property with Lisa, her husband Paul and their pups, Ferris & Marty. Now Diggs not only has a new mom but an extended family as well!

Update from Lisa: "Diggs is doing great. My mom is very happy with him, he’s so mellow and good. We walked this morning with my dog Marty. Happy home!! We are changing his name slightly to Tiggs, short for Tigger because of his beautiful coat."


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Melai (now Leia) and Solo - a two-fer adoption!!

Leia (left) & Solo bonded while at our sanctuary and we were hoping the right person would come along who would adopt them both. Wishes do come true!  They were ready to go when their new mama, Su Lin came to bring them home. It was a drizzly, cold day but the pups seemed to know something good was happening. A warm, fuzzy blanket was placed in the back seat of the car. The pups hopped right in, got buckled up and headed home to Healdsburg to start their new life.

Before they left Su Lin told us she is changing Melai's name to Leia. Now the pair will be (Hans) Solo and (Princess) Leia! How cute is that?


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Cowboy - a foster failure :)

Sweet, gentle Cowboy has been in foster care with Jody and Mark. He came back to our sanctuary recently to start his heartworm treatments but Jody and Mark missed him too much.

The good news is a solution has been worked out so that he can remain at home while he’s going through his HW treatment. Jody mostly works from home. On the days she needs to go to the office, Cowboy will spend the day with Cher (a beloved Lily's volunteer) at her home. He'll be well looked after and then go back home at the end of the day. It's a perfect arrangement all around. Hurrah!  


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Ginger

Ginger's new mom Dana couldn’t wait another day and came a day early to take her home. It was a joyous reunion and a real toss up as to who was more excited, Ginger or Dana. Clearly it was a “meant to be” match. Once Ginger realized Dana wasn't leaving without her, she stood still just long enough for the send-off picture. Then she bounded out the door, happily jumped in the car and off they went to start their new life together!
 
Update from Dana: "Ginger is an angel. She is right at home and I’m so proud of her! She has worked it out well with the cats and we are co-existing peacefully just a few days in. She loves her downstairs bed and is glued to it when we’re inside. She gets up every so often to come to say hi and get some love. She’s SUCH a good pup. She listens, sits, stays, waits, and knows what I’m asking and thinking and what we’re doing next. She loves the car and is always smiling when we go on an adventure. She fits right in with us and I love her so."


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Atticus

We are excited to close out the third week of National Adopt A Senior Pet Month 2020 with the adoption of Atticus!

Alice and her brother Lee lost their dog several months ago. They have been looking for a senior to adopt and were drawn to Atticus. When they came to meet him, he quickly charmed his way into their hearts. Paperwork was taken care of, his bags were packed (with a few favorite squeaky toys) and send off pictures were taken. Then he headed home to Tiburon to start his new life.

Atticus has hit the jackpot. Alice is an Addiction Recovery Counselor and works from home. Lee is home most of the time too. Happy Days ahead for Atticus!
 
Update: Atticus enjoyed the ride home and is exploring the property inside and out. He is a loving, happy boy and is settling well. We have a fire going and relaxing before supper. He is laying quietly by me, bro is in his office doing some work. I brushed him a lot today and 95% of his flakey skin is gone and all the little matted hair patches are brushed out. He seems very happy, rolling over to let us rub his belly.

Thank you for being the Angel who took him in and gave him his next chapter in life. ~ Alice


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Salem (now Sofie)

We are excited to close out the 2nd week of National Adopt A Senior Pet Month 2020 with the lightning fast adoption of Salem! This lucky girl arrived Friday and was adopted just 24 hrs later!

Salem came to us from the King County Shelter. Sadly, she was surrendered because her owner became homeless and could no longer keep her.

Fast forward 2 weeks...Salem was on her way to Lily’s. First stop, Fairfax Vet. She checked out great, was deemed healthy and fit.

Friday Salem arrived at the Sanctuary and quickly stole the hearts of everyone she met. Right away we thought this special girl might be perfect for Pris who had recently lost her beloved pups, Sarah & Callie. Pris has been a dedicated Lily's Board member for many years and has adopted multiple Lily's pups dating back to 2011!

Friday evening Alice sent Pris a picture of Salem and first thing Saturday morning Pris came to meet her. She had picked out some names in case it was a fit, but was prepared, if it didn’t feel right. Well, it felt right. Salem leaned into Pris’ leg after about 2 seconds. They really liked each other, it was a mutual perfect match!

Update: Sofie is an absolutely wonderful girl and I can’t thank you enough! She, of course, slept on the bed with me, leaped like a gazelle up on to the bed and curled right up and was asleep in a minute! Now she’s all curled up in a snug corner on the couch as I write. The fleece blanket I put there for her makes it cozy I think, especially on these cooler days. 

I’m so grateful that Sarah and Callie left the door open for Sofie and that your team and you did the legwork that brought her home. Thank you! ~ Pris


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Oliver and Kyli
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At Lily's, Adopt a Senior Pet Month 2020 is moving right along. We were excited to close out the 1st week of November with a double adoption - OLIVER & KYLI!

Saturday Kim came with her boyfriend and 14 year old dog, Lily, to meet Oliver & Kyli. The meet & greet went well, it was a go. After the paperwork was taken care of, send off pics taken, they headed home to Healdsburg.

Oliver & Kyli are in good hands. Kim is retired and over the years has adopted many rescue dogs.  


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Sam

Jude, previous Lily’s adopter of Lillie (February 2016) and Sunny & Rufus (aka “the twins” August 2019) came Sunday to meet Sam. Sadly, Sunny & Rufus had recently passed within a month of each other, there was a hole in Jude’s heart. When Sam came in the corral to meet his new mom, it was mutual love at first sight and Jude brought him home. Another Happy Tail!


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Millie (now Lily Butter Bean) - a foster failure! :)

Last week Beth Ann & Chris, previous adopters of two other Lily's pups, Bear (January 2018) and Bella (October 2019), came to meet Millie. Bella had recently passed and there was a hole in their hearts they needed to fill. Millie went home with them as a Foster-to-Adopt.

From the start, the biggest challenge was getting Millie to go outside to potty. With patience, love and praise, Millie made progress in “baby steps”. Over the past week, she’s come a long way and has especially bonded with Chris & their son Harlan.

Thanks to Beth Ann & Chris' efforts to work through Millie's "issues", she is now ADOPTED and has been re-named Lily Butter Bean in honor of Bella who they called "bean"! Another Happy Tail!  



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Angus - a foster failure! :)

Hurrah, Angus is no longer in foster, Leslie & Grant have officially ADOPTED him.

Angus is doing great, he's settled into his new home beautifully. Not only did Leslie & Grant fall in love with Angus, but all their friends did too!

Sweet Angus deserves the very best, his forever home is just that!


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Nani

Nani's new mom, Liz, previously adopted Skylar in March 2017. Sadly, Skylar recently passed and Liz was looking for a new companion. Monday, Liz and her dad (and his little dog) came to meet our pups. No surprise it was Miss Nani who stole Liz’ heart, it was a perfect match.

Thursday Liz came back to bring Nani home. When she arrived, Nani was very happy and animated, joyfully throwing her toy around. When they got to the car, Nani literally flew into the back of Liz’s Subaru wagon, ready to hit the road and start her new life!  


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Lucy - a foster failure :)

Hurrah, Lucy is no longer a foster pup. Bill & Susan Z, volunteers at Lily's, made her adoption official!

Lucy looks great, she's happy and content. She patiently waited in the car while mom & dad did a photo shoot of our newest pups. Before heading home, the happy family posed for the obligatory send-off pictures with smiles all around.

We are overjoyed that Lucy has found the forever home she deserves. Thank you Bill & Susan for providing her that home.  


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Hank

Hank was only with us for one week before he went home with Richard & Juliet. Four years ago, they had adopted Kona, a chocolate lab. She has since passed. Quite by chance, Richard & Juliet found out about Hank through their daughter who’s in college in New York. She spotted Hank on our website the first day he was posted and alerted her parents.

Initially, they came to “just” meet Hank. But as luck would have it, they quickly fell for his chocolate charm and ended up taking him home. Sounds like Hank will have a great life. Someone will be home with him most of the time. They have a pool where he can swim to build up his muscle tone and burn some of his energy in a healthy way.


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Princess

Princess' new family, David & Pam and sister Dinah came all the way from San Jose pretty confident that Princess was to be their new pup. They were right!

Princess engaged with all 3 of them, going from one to the other, accepting treats and demonstrating her good manners and gentle nature. Foster mom, Becky filled them in about her behavior, likes & dislikes, quirks and how Princess has blossomed over the past 7 weeks she’s been with her. This invaluable information helped dispel any doubts or concerns David, Pam & Dinah might have had about adopting Princess. We owe Becky a debt of gratitude for fostering Princess so well and helping her find her forever home!


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Sonic

Sonic is being adopted by Lynn who previously adopted another Lily's dog, Lucky in September 2016. Sadly, Lucky recently passed at the age of 12. Lynn spotted Sonic online and fell in love. Since Lynn lives in San Luis Obispo, she asked her friend and former Lily’s volunteer Linda B. to check out Sonic for her. Linda met Sonic last week and gave him an enthusiastic 2 thumbs up. 

Tomorrow Lynn will be taking her new boy home. Sonic already has his bags packed and is patiently waiting to meet his new mom!


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Josey

Miss Josey has been ADOPTED. Not surprising, she was only with us for one whole week!

Breea had been looking for a senior pup to join her family. Last week she happened to see Josey’s first (and only) Facebook post. One look at Josey and it was love at first sight! Wednesday, Breea & Manuel came with their daughter and 8 year old pittie, Gracie, to meet Josie. Gracie and Josie hit it off right away. Josie engaged with everyone but she especially bonded with Manuel. They all agreed Josie was their new pup and so she is!


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Oliver

Oliver, a blind Border Collie is such a love, his blindness doesn't seem to slow him down a bit. We knew Oliver wouldn’t be with us for long and we were right...he was adopted within a few days of arriving at the Sanctuary.

Marcia and her 8 year old Great Dane Angie came all the way from Plumas County (5 hour drive) to meet our dogs. She had recently lost a beloved pup and was looking for a new companion for herself and Angie. Oliver and Angie hit it off right away, it was a heartwarming love fest all around. Woot!


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Angel

​Joanne & Anthony, retired school teachers in Oregon fell in love with Angel online and knew they wanted to adopt her sight unseen. They drove all the way to our Sanctuary to adopt her! Angel was happy and content sitting with them, getting acquainted. Their instinct was right! She was the Angel they were waiting for!  Waiting at home will be Angel’s new brother, a 12 year old Lab mix. No doubt, Angels is going to have a wonderful life. She will be missed.


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Paloma
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Paloma, the beautiful Great Pyrenees/Golden was only with us for 4 days when she was "spoken for". 

Fritz & Christine and their sons Nate and Connor came to meet Paloma. The family was looking for their “first” dog. When Paloma landed at Lily’s, Alice thought she would be perfect for their family. After spending time with her, the family unanimously agreed that Paloma was indeed their new dog.  We agree!


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​Buddy

Adoption day was a BIG DAY for little Buddy. Uncle Paul drove him all the way to Yuba City to his forever home. Buddy was happy to see Cari & Mark but was especially excited to be reunited with his beloved Moira, another beloved Lily's dog. Buddy had been looking for her at Lily's all week! 

If ever a dog deserved a second chance at a happy life, it's Buddy. Huge thanks and gratitude to Cari & Mark for giving Buddy just that, a forever home where he will be loved and cherished for the rest of his life. 

We will miss sweet Buddy and are looking forward to updates


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Bella

Not surprising, Miss Bella was only with us for one week before she was adopted! Several potential adopters came to meet Bella, but they weren't the right match.

In the end, it was Bella who chose Pat to be her new mom. In March 2018 Pat adopted Lily’s pup, Stevie (now Quinn). He’s still going strong but sadly, his canine buddy recently passed away. Pat was looking for a new companion for she and Quinn, that pup is Bella.

We certainly will miss our social butterfly, Bella was such a ray of sunshine at Lily’s! 


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Greta

Greta has been adopted by Craig & Kelcey. The couple recently bought a home in Petaluma and were ready to adopt their first dog. Kelcey had heard about Lily’s from her Uncle Mike, a Lily’s volunteer. They came to meet Greta and fell in love with her. 

Greta has a tumor on her thyroid that is an aggressive cancer. The good news is the tumor is encapsulated, there’s no sign it has spread and it is operable. When Craig & Kelcey were told about Greta’s prognosis, they were completely undeterred from adopting her; special needs animals are their passion. Greta’s new family includes a one-eyed cat and a toothless cat, both rescues.

We are over the moon for Greta. Craig & Kelsey will give her the best life possible, she will be loved and well cared for the rest of her days.


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Momo

Molly is a retired dog walker and has adopted many pups over the years. She lives in San Francisco with 4 small dogs, all senior rescues. Molly felt there was room in her heart and home for one more, that lucky pup is Momo!  


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Mimi

Christine & Andy, a retired couple from Clio, CA had been looking to adopt a Lily’s pup for some time. Since our pups get adopted pretty darned quickly, Christine called about Mimi the first day she was posted on our website.

Wednesday they made the 5 hour journey to Petaluma, stayed overnight at a motel and came to Lily's the next morning to meet Mimi. After spending time with her they agreed that Mimi was indeed their new pup and happily took her home.  


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Bo (now Beau)

Several people were interested in adopting Bo, but hands down John & Karen from San Francisco were the best match. After 4 years without a dog, they were ready to adopt again and wanted a senior. Googling Senior Dog Rescues brought them to Lily’s Legacy where handsome Bo caught their eye. When they came to meet him there was quite the love-fest going on in the corral for over an hour. Bo was just the pup they were looking for.

Smiles all around for the sendoff pictures and then off they went to start their new life together. A life that will no doubt include lots of “urban walking”, trips to the beach and other fun adventures. Happy days ahead for sweet Bo (now Beau). 


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Brownie (now Coco)

A very excited Gayle & Chris came to bring Brownie home to Folsom. Brownie was so happy she could barely sit still for the sendoff pics. She was ready to hit the road and start her new life. And what a great life it will be. Mom & dad are retired and have an active lifestyle that Brownie (now Coco) will be a big part of. She’ll enjoy swimming in her backyard pool, going for long walks every day and of course endless ball playing.


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Zeus

Zeus is a beautiful 11 or 12-year old blind German Shepherd / Collie mix (best guess). Zeus's challenges have not dampened his delightful personality, nor his accommodating spirit. He is wide open to new friends and new experiences. His hearing is excellent so he can find his way around and respond when called. He is smart, trusting of direction, and accepts course correction without complaint. While always expressing a sweet, gentlemanly disposition, he will let you know that no amount of affection (or treats) can be deemed excessive.

Zeus' new mom, Emily, is a 2nd year law student at UC Davis. She met Zeus and fell in love. Clearly with good reason!


Tissue Alert....Another Lily's Miracle X3!!!  The bonded sisters Bella, Camo and Kia find a home together!

We received an unexpected phone call from Tara, a dog lover from So Cal, inquiring about the Three Sisters. Over the years Tara has adopted many dogs who for one reason or another needed a second chance and a forever home. Recently Tara lost the last of her pack, leaving a hole in her heart. She randomly Googled “bonded senior dogs”. Low and behold, up popped Lily’s Legacy with the Bonded Sisters featured on the home page. Tara was dumbfounded and excited, they were exactly what she was looking for, 2 (or 3!) bonded seniors who needed a home together. After reading their heartwarming story,Tara called our executive director Alice to ask is they were still available. Without missing a beat, Alice exclaimed, “Yes indeed they are, they've been waiting for you to find them!” It was meant to be. Tara’s references checked out great (especially from her vet!), as did the remote home visit. The adoption wheels were set in motion!

Tara made the 6+ hour journey from So Cal to Petaluma. She arrived late in the afternoon just as Kia, Camo & Bella were finishing up their fun swim session in our therapy pool. Tara got acquainted with the girls, played ball with them, gave belly rubs and hung out. She also told them their new home was several blocks from the beach! A few days later, Tara returned to the Sanctuary, loaded the girls into her vehicle and off they went to start their new life together!

Needless to say, we are over the moon the sisters were adopted together, BUT (here's where the tissues come in) saying goodbye was very bittersweet. Won’t be the same at Lily's without the sweet trio brightening up our day.

Here are some adorable pictures and happy update...

"We had a good first night. They all jumped in bed with me. At some point in the night Bella moved to one of the beds in the living room and Camo moved to the couch.  But Kia stayed with me.  🧡🧡🧡. We had a good walk to the post office this morning. They are dreams. I so enjoy them. I just can’t even tell you how blessed I feel. Their Lily's harness’ are on their way back to you. Thank you so much. I am so grateful."
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Chief

Trace & Robyn had recently said good bye to their beloved 12 year old Shepherd, Milo. To help heal their broken hearts they decided to come meet Chief. His mellow temperament and gentle nature suited them perfectly, they fell in love and home he went!


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Izzy

Izzy, an 8 year old yellow Lab wasn’t with us for very long - only four days!

Tammy & Les had recently lost their beloved senior Lab. The whole family was sad but their 13 year old Lab, Coal was especially so. Saturday they came all the way from Brentwood to meet some of our pups and hopefully go home with a new friend for Coal. Well, that new friend turned out to be Izzy. The boys got along great, it was a perfect match all around. As you can see in the send off picture, the pups are smiling. No doubt the rest of the family was too behind their masks!


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Maggie

Jesse & Paula are two-time previous adopters of Lily’s pups. They adopted Sophie in 2016 & Shawna (re-named Gracie) in 2018, both pups have crossed Rainbow Bridge. Now Jesse & Paula are ready to open their hearts again. When they came to meet Maggie, it was love at first sight, she was their girl! 


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Sassy

Roger spotted Sassy on our website and came to meet her on Saturday. Sassy waltzed into the corral and parked herself at his feet, she had found her new dad. It was meant to be, Roger ADOPTED her on the spot. Sassy hopped right in the car and off she went to start her new life.

And what a life it will be. Roger works from home and has a 1/2 acre, safely fenced, for her to explore (something Sassy LOVES to do!). Best of all, Sassy will never be abandoned again, just loved and cherished for the rest of her life. 


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Pepper

Pepper, an 8 year old Lab/Husky mix fast tracked through Lily’s in record time, just 4 days.

Friday Jeff & Daniella and their Corgi, Guido came from Berkeley to meet Pepper. They had recently lost their beloved Lab and were referred to Lily’s by Jeff’s sister, Pam of North Bay Beagle Rescue. We knew Pepper was rock solid with other dogs (she lived with 5 dogs in her previous life) and she confirmed that by making friends with Guido right away. Jeff & Daniella bonded with Pepper as well, it was a perfect match.

Sunday, they came to take Pepper home. She ran right up to mom & dad, happily jumped in the car and off she went to start her new life. She will be missed.


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Utah

Utah, an 8 year old Anatolian Shepherd, came to us quite by accident. He didn't stay very long. He was adopted by Peter & Haleigh, a young couple who live on the west side of Petaluma. Peter is a vet-tech at Fairfax Vet, he first met Utah at his intake exam. They have been looking for a senior pup to adopt for sometime. When Utah walked into Fairfax Vet, he was definitely a contender.

Last weekend they came to spend some time with Utah. All went well, they wanted to adopt him. Before that could happen, Utah needed to meet the landlord and his dog who live on the property. Utah passed that test with flying colors. He was good to go!!

No doubt, he will be well cared for as he goes through his heartworm treatment. Currently Haleigh is working from home and when she goes back to the office, Utah will go with her! Happy days ahead for Utah, a dog who fortunately landed at Lily’s quite by accident!  


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Sandy

The first day of Summer was a joyous day for Miss Sandy (and all of us too!), she was ADOPTED by Jan & Dwight. Sadly, they recently lost their beloved Duke, a Lily’s pup they adopted in 2017 at the age of 13.

When Jan & Dwight received the Lily’s Newsletter, Sandy’s picture and story grabbed their hearts, she was just the pup they were looking for. When they came to meet her, she happily trotted up to them like she knew they were her new family. It was a perfect match, just look at her smile!

We are over the moon for Sandy. No doubt she will help Jan & Dwight mend their broken hearts and they in turn will love her unconditionally till the end of her days. She will be missed! 

Update: "We are so happy to have Sandy in our home. She is the perfect fit for us right now. She is still not thrilled to be touched much, but follows me around the property as I do my chores. She seems to prefer Dwight a bit over me (smart girl, to sense what a gem he is!)"


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Kenai

No surprise, Kenai an eight or nine year old Golden Retriever was only with us for one week. He was a stray found by good Samaritans in SoCal. After an extensive search for his family to no avail, they contacted Lily’s and drove him up to us last weekend.

He was ADOPTED by previous adopters Kurt & Helen. He's in a fabulous new home where he'll be loved and spoiled as he should be. 


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 Logger

Logger (on right) is an 8 year old Chocolate Lab from the Humboldt County Shelter. He was a stray who had suffered a traumatic accident that seriously injured his front leg. At his intake exam it was determined that he had extensive nerve damage that caused the leg to not function, it just dangles. Unfortunately, the nerve damage is irreversible so his leg was amputated. The good news is that besides the bad leg, Logger is a healthy pup - and he was adopted!

And no wonder. This lovable lab is a total sweetheart. He's seemingly unfazed by his leg injury, has a happy outlook on life and a non-stop waggy tail. He loves everyone he meets, thinks he’s an 86 pound lap dog and is an absolute joy to be around.

Brianna & Beth, who previously adopted another Lily's dog named Lucy, came to meet Logger. Lucy came too. They loved Logger and he loved them and Lucy & Logger got along great. It was a virtual love fest all around.  It's a perfect fit for our boy! 


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Sophie

Sophie was only with us for one week when Trish & Tom, the young couple who adopted another of Lily's dogs, Luna came to meet her. Sadly, their beloved Luna recently passed but they were ready and eager to again open their hearts and home to another pup.

The timing of Sophie’s arrival at Lily’s couldn’t have been better, she is the perfect dog for Trish & Tom and they for her. To be absolutely sure, Trish & Tom went home to "think about it". Well, we don't think they even made it home, 15 minutes later they called and enthusiastically said, “Yes, we want to ADOPT Sophie!!"


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Tucker

Our newest pup, Tucker, fast tracked through Lily’s in record time. He was only with us all of five hours when off he went to his FOSTER-TO-ADOPT home. Here’s how it happened……

Shortly after he arrived at our Sanctuary, Julie & Dave came to meet him, hoping to adopt a 'big dog'. Tucker turned out to be just the dog they were looking for. Tucker is now with his Foster-To-Adopt family. Julie is a retired police officer and now works as a PI from home. They live on a seven acre property in Novato with their three kids and three cats.

Update: "Tucker's amazing, finally relaxing. He’s a good boy. He’s been eating very well and met the children today. My daughter (12) cried when she saw him and he licked her tears off her face. Unbelievable. He’s very sweet. He checks in with each person he meets. Definitely had the job of being a guard dog. Makes sure everyone is “safe” but not in an obnoxious way. He listens to commands and knows sit, no, and lie down very well. I think he ran away because he was ignored. All he wants to do now is be with us and take short walks outside."


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Will

Will’s foster parents, Sheri & Mike, joined the ranks of Foster Failures! They love Will to bits and are excited to make him a permanent member of the family. We were happy to hear that from the start Will chose Mike as his person, they are inseparable. Will's a Daddy's boy!

We are over the moon for Will. It took awhile to find his forever home, but was well worth the wait. Another Happy Tail!


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Sampson

Vani, her daughter and their Chihuahua came all the way from Los Altos to meet Sampson. They were looking for a big, fluffy couch potato to join their family. Sampson is all that and more; it was a perfect match.

Sampson is in great hands. Vani and her husband work from home in tech and they have a "thing" for large dogs!

We’re going to miss the big polar bear, but are so happy he now has a forever family. 


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Roody (now Harry)

For a while, Pat & Rick had been looking for a Lily’s dog to adopt. We told them about Roody, the injured dog who had just arrived at our Sanctuary. They came to meet him and fell in love (that happened with everyone who met this gentle soul!).

A few days later Pat & Rick came back, loaded him in the car and took him home. It is a perfect home for Roody. He will be an “only” and no doubt be doted on 24/7. Pat & Rick will provide him with the nutrition, meds, TLC and bed rest he needs to get healthy and heal his injured body. His new name is Harry.
   
Update: Harry has become somewhat of a SIP companion dog to my neighbor across the street – she texts and asks if she can come and see Harry; they sit outside on a beach towel in our backyard and he basks in the sun and all the attention she can give him. It’s very sweet, and it gives him another mug to look at besides mine! L0L!


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Ben (now Riggs)

It was finally Ben’s turn to pack his bags and head home with his new family. It was a happy reunion when Tabitha and her kids, Sidney and Cash came to pick him up a few days after first meeting him. Waiting at home were Ben’s new sister Maggie (Lily’s alum from 2 years ago), dad and human brother. 

As it should be, Ben is starting his new life with a new name, Riggs.


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Ruby

Hurrah, Miss Ruby has been ADOPTED!
 
Her new mom is Jill, a retired nurse who lives in the Sierra foothills. Jill has extended family living in the area, all of whom have dogs. Since Jill’s beloved Golden passed in February she has been longing for another dog. It was a family effort to make that happen. Last week Jill's daughter and grandson came from Healdsburg to meet Ruby. They decided that Ruby would be the perfect dog for mom/grandma. 


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Ladybird

Things are looking up for Miss Ladybird because previous adopters Linda & Tess will be taking her home! Four years ago they adopted Cody, a Lab/Dane mix. Sadly, Cody recently passed. They wanted to adopt another Lily’s pup and came to meet Ladybird. Just back from lipoma surgery, she was more than happy to temporarily lose her cone and waltzed into the corral with her tail wagging. Pretty quickly Ladybird's charm and sweetness (and kisses) won them over. Also, sharing the positive feedback we had from Ladybird’s foster mom in Fresno helped seal the deal. Knowing she is rock solid with kids, grown-ups, dogs, cats, chickens, etc. helped Linda & Tess realize that Ladybird was just the dog they've been looking for.  


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Bertha and Coco (a two-fer!)

Coco, a 14 year old Chocolate Lab, came to us after her owner unexpectedly died. She was brought to Lily's by a retired Sheriff who had befriended the elderly woman. Without hesitation, we took Coco.

Bertha, a St. Bernard waiting for her potential new parents to come meet her, was hanging out with Coco in our corral. It wasn’t long before Matt & Liz knew Bertha was the pup they’d been looking for. Alice, our Executive Director, headed to the house to get the paperwork. When she returned with adoption papers in hand, Liz excitedly blurted out, “If it’s okay, we would like to adopt both girls!”. It was definitely a-okay and that’s just what they did. Matt gingerly lifted Bertha into the back of their SUV and little Coco comfortably fit next to her. No longer orphans, they happily headed home to Napa with their new mom & dad. 
 
Update: "Not a peep from Miss Coco on the ride home, while Miss Bertha was curious and wanted the window open to see and smell. These two lovely ladies are settling in nicely (naps, cozy beds and staying cool inside with this heat!) They are both so sweet, loving and are getting along great."

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Gracie

Gracie has been adopted by Sheri & Buck the wonderful couple from Oregon who previously adopted Drake. Sadly, Drake passed last Fall. Sheri & Buck are now ready to open their hearts and home again to another Lily’s pup. Gracie is that lucky girl! There's no doubt Gracie's new mom & dad will give her a wonderful life full of adventures, joy and unconditional love, the life she truly deserves! 
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Updates from Sherri and Buck:
“Gracie is such a good girl, exactly as promised! She is wonderful and has us both wrapped around her cute self. Perfect for us, you were right! ❤❤

…Just wanted you to know she is doing really well, and getting lots of hugs and kisses!! Hugs from all of us. ❤❤” - Sherri & Buck

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Shasta

​Miss Shasta had a full dance card of potential adopters. They came from all over the Bay Area to meet her! In the end, it was Shasta who “chose” her new family, the very last ones that came late Sunday afternoon.
Jon & Linda have previously adopted two of Lily’s dogs, most recently Gigi, a beautiful Belgian Shepherd. Sadly, Gigi passed several months ago. They spotted Shasta on Facebook and wanted to come meet her. Of all the "meet and greets" Shasta had, the one that definitely stood out was with Jon & Linda and daughter Amy. As soon as Shasta came into the corral she was noticeably more interactive with all of them, but especially with Amy. Clearly, Shasta was comfortable and content, she knew she'd found her forever family and was going home.


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Bravo

Several potential adopters came to meet Bravo. Hands down the best match was with Isabel & Chris. They wanted to adopt a senior dog and were referred to Lily’s by an acquaintance at the SF SPCA.

Isabel is a retired school teacher and Chris is a retired UC Davis professor. They live on a 5 acre property in Vacaville with their 11 year old Golden, Lucy and three cats. After retiring they started a new venture; an olive oil, fruit and nuts business.

When Isabel & Chris came to take their new boy home, Bravo settled into the back seat with his new toy, paws firmly crossed and ready to head home!


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Chloe

Hurrah, Miss Chloe has been ADOPTED! Isabel and Gary first spotted Chloe on Facebook. They got their application in right away, home visit was done virtually and their references checked out great.

Easter Sunday they packed up their GSD Marti and came all the way from Elk Grove to meet Chloe. Marti and Chloe hit it off right away, it was a love fest all around. No problem getting everyone to smile for the camera, they're one big happy family.

Things are going well in Chloe's new home. She's settled right in and is getting along great with bro Marti. 


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Pearl (now Daisy)

Ronni and Maggie, her 11 year old Lab, met Pearl and all went well. Maggie approved of her new sister with four paws up! Pearl is in great hands, Ronni is retired and a very dog savvy mom. 
 
Update: "Pearl is now named Daisy. She is doing really well adjusting to her new family and learning the house rules. She is one smart cookie and a happy girl who loves her belly rubs." 


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Shep + Goose - a two-fer adoption!

Brian and Jenny and kids came to meet Shep. Goose happened to be in the corral at the time. He took one look at their son and it was love at first sight for them both.

Shep was the pup they had come up to meet. Shep loved the girls right away and actually warmed up to the guys fairly quickly. Eric even got some kisses. After meeting all the other available dogs, Brian and Jenny decided to ADOPT both Goose and Shep! Happily, off they went home and to meet their new canine brother, Fluffy, a VERY laid back 11 year old Golden.

Update:
Goose slept in our son's room last night, while Shep was with our daughter. We had our first family walk just now - all perfect. Fluffy’s great with the two new ones, although he doesn’t want to share his toys with Goose! :). Shep is definitely the alpha - not even a bit of uncertainty there. Goose and Shep had baths and brushing last night, and all three are eating homemade dogs treats. We think it's safe to say that all is very well here...Thank you so much for letting us expand our family!
Jenny, Brian and kids
Fluffy, Goose, and Shep

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Izzie

Izzie first met Obosa a few weeks ago, there was clearly a connection between them. As a Lily's cuddler, Kate had fallen for Izzie months earlier. It was an all around match made in heaven.

Kate just completed her pharmaceutical degree at UCSF. The couple is relocating to Escondido where they had bought a home. Kate, Obosa and Izzie of course. They posed for the happy send off pics with Izzie choosing to put her paw on Obosa's arm to let him know she was ready to hit the road! And that's just what they did. Sunday they loaded up a U-Haul truck and headed home to Escondido.

Kate plans to take a year off before looking for a job, Obosa works from home in tech. Wow, Izzie will have both mom and dad home with her. It doesn’t get much better than that. We are over the moon for Izzie, she's found the forever home she deserves.


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Bubba

Victoria & David spotted Bubba on Petfinder. They called to see if he was still available. Yes indeed he was! They sent in their application, their home visit was done remotely, glowing references checked - everything was perfect!

The couple came to our sanctuary with their 11 year old Lab Lula (what are the odds, Lula & Bubba?). As soon as they came in the barn, Bubba sauntered over to greet them. Victoria could not stop kissing him and Bubba was soaking it up.

Then they went to the corral and brought in Lula. Oh my, what an adorable pair! Lula took to Bubba right away, it was a great match. We all were in tears (happy tears!) witnessing Bubba finally being ADOPTED! We knew his new family was out there somewhere, it just took a little longer than we thought. Well worth the wait, Victoria is retired, David works from home and Lula will be a wonderful buddy for Bubba. We will all miss the Big Guy!


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Harper

In less than one week, our girl Harper was ADOPTED. Last week her medical needs were all taken care of. She had a dental (8 teeth removed) and was spayed. She came back to the Sanctuary good to go to her forever home. Who knew it would happen the very next day.

A woman named Terasa came all the way from Campbell to meet one of our other pups. Well, that match wasn’t meant to be. Turned out that Terasa and Harper only had eyes for each other, it was love at first sight! Then Harper met little brother-to-be, Jax, a 12 pound, 5 year old male Yorkie. They took to each other right away. Friend Lisa, and pet sitter when Terasa travels (rarely) came along to help in the quest for a “big” dog, it was Harper! And off they happily went to start their new life together! 


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Colt & Goldie (now Madison)

​Our pair of labs fast tracked to their new home in just 5 days. Colt & Goldie were surrendered Friday, 2/28 and ADOPTED last Wednesday. Once again, timing was everything. Kevin & Eliza had recently lost the last of their 3 rescued Basset Hounds and were looking to adopt 2 dogs. Coincidentally, we had just taken in a bonded pair of labs who we hoped would be adopted together.

Saturday, Kevin & Eliza came to meet Colt & Goldie and fell in love. Monday, the pups had their intake exams (all good) and Denise L. did the home visit in Oakland (also all good!). It was meant to be.

Wednesday when Kevin & Eliza came to bring the pups home, the barn was buzzing with energy and excitement. They came prepared with new collars, harnesses and ID tags. Colt will keep his name, Goldie is now Madison in honor of a past dog. Kevin works from home, Eliza works part-time and their 19 year old son lives at home. Sounds like Colt and Madison have found a great forever home, together!


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Brandy

Kelly brought her mom Debbie to Lily's in the hopes of finding a companion dog for her. They sat at the table with Alice for some time talking about what kind of dog Debbie was looking for. Brandy was nearby listening to their every word. Her tail started wagging when she realized they were describing her, she was the perfect companion dog! Debbie and Kelly both agreed, Miss Brandy was the one!

Abbie did the home visit and the next day delivered Brandy to her beautiful new home in San Rafael. Debbie and her caregiver Lucy were so happy to see her, Brandy was pretty excited too. Lucy lives on the property and is a life-long dog lover.

Brandy has hit the jackpot, she’s one lucky pup.

Update: Home sweet home! Thank you Alice and all you fantastic Cuddlers and Volunteers for helping us find dear Brandy. With love and deepest appreciation, Debbie, Lucy and Kelly. 


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Spot

Glory Hallelujah, Spot has been adopted!  We're so excited for our sweet boy.

Last summer Rose and her husband Todd came to Lily's and adopted Clifford, a chocolate lab they read about in a courtesy post on Facebook. Having followed Spot for over a year, and as of December, Rose being home full time, they decided to make the addition to their family.

His new family includes 2 labs, Clifford and Oscar, and 2 dog savvy cats. We are over the moon for Spot, he finally has a home of his own!


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Arizona (now Willy)

No surprise, Arizona was adopted just a week after he arrived! It was Arizona’s first Facebook post that caught the eyes of Kathy and Alex. They submitted their application right away and worked out the logistics for the home visit (in Truckee), two thumbs up on both. 24 hours later they were on their way to Lily’s to bring Arizona home. As soon as they walked in the door, Arizona enthusiastically greeted them wagging his tail and giving kisses. They were smitten, he was their new dog.

Arizona is going to have a fantastic life. Kathy and Alex both work from home and enjoy an active outdoors lifestyle. Arizona (now Willy) has 2 Golden siblings and a cat buddy (Pearl). He's already experienced snow, maybe for the first time and loved it.


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Kona

After being with us for just 6 days, Kona was adopted. Two days after he arrived, Susanna came to meet some of our dogs. She had recently lost her beloved dog and was ready to open her heart again, Kona was the one! Susanna and her husband have two homes. Sounds like Kona's going to have a great new life!


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Reba

A couple of weeks ago a young Petaluma couple, Kelly and David, came to meet Reba. They grew up with dogs but have never had a dog as adults. Friends of theirs spotted Reba on Facebook and thought she would be a great "first dog" for them. Evidently they were right, they fell in love with Reba.

Kelly works in the healthcare industry close to home, David is in the solar energy business. Kelly is taking this whole week off from work to be home with Reba.

Update: "She's doing great so far. She seems to warm up to us more and more everyday. She loves to look outside from her bed in the living room, and knows to go into her bed in our bedroom at nighttime. We've gone on a lot of walks around the neighborhood. She seems to know by scent when we're getting back to the house. She's been a dream as far as behavior goes. No accidents in the house (knock on wood), minimal barking and whining, and sleeps through the night. She's explored our backyard and loves sunbathing when we're out there. We are so in love with her already!"


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Hudson - now Joey

Not a surprise, Hudson was only with us for 7 days before he was ADOPTED. Judy first spotted Hudson (then Ernst) on Adopt A Pet. Not wanting to miss out, she sent in her application right away. She came to meet Hudson and fell in love. 

Judy is retired and lives with her husband on a country property in Novato. She has a 35 year old Arabian horse that lives in a barn 1 ½ miles from the house. Everyday Hudson will walk with Judy to feed the horse lunch. Coincidentally, Hudson was found as a stray in rural Fresno, sure sounds like his new country home is a perfect fit.

Update: My new family member is doing great, he’s really a very good and sweet dog. I have changed his name to Joey. He seems very attracted to male voices and pick-up trucks. We are going out for a long walk this morning with my neighbor. Thank you for placing this sweet heart with me. – Judy


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Luna

Miss Luna has been ADOPTED! Tom and Trish, a young couple from Petaluma had been looking for their “first” dog, as adults, for some time. They met Luna and fell in love; clearly she was "the one”. Tom is a teacher at the US Coast Guard Training Center in Two Rock, Trish is an account manager and works minutes away from home. They have a good plan for Luna's daily care and will make it work. 


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Jeter - Our first happy tail of 2020!

Jeter, the three legged pup, was adopted and went home with his new mom and dad, RD and Nancy. RD and Nancy have adopted before from Jeter's foster mom Carole. They will give Jeter the perfect forever home he deserves. RD is retired and Nancy is a school teacher, so someone will always be home. 
 
Update from Carole: 
They are so in love with him! They already had been to Pet Food Express and bought Jeter a new collar and leash. He has a new bed and all kinds of toys and he's just all set up for success.

Lily's Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary - A haven for abandoned, homeless or
​displaced large breed senior dogs
 (50+ pds, 7+ years)
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Phone:  707-787-7010
Mailing Address:
PO Box 751002

Petaluma, CA  94975
Email: lilyslegacysds@gmail.com

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