Two of our (latest) favorites went home this weekend. Not favorites because they are so darn adorable (although they are)…but favorites for their big strong hearts.

Charlie and Linus were surrendered to us as puppies barely four months old. They came carrying a very unwelcome guest: Parvo. Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious disease and potentially life-threatening disease spread from dog to dog by contact with their feces. It can be especially severe in puppies that are not protected by maternal antibodies or vaccination. Within days of their arrival, Charlie was experiencing severe vomiting and dysentery – symptoms of the intestinal form of parvo. Linus was not far behind.

Parvo is a very serious concern at a shelter or rescue. Both dogs were quickly isolated and the rescue was scrubbed from head to toe with bleach and a special disinfectant. They had many angels looking upon them, but one in particular whose quick attention surely saved their lives. Young as they were, these pups had the hearts of warriors. Just a few weeks later they were romping and wrestling as if nothing had happened.

They went home this weekend, just in time for Christmas. Charlie went with a previous adopter on Saturday. Poor Linus looked lost…but not for long.

If these pictures are any indication, we think he’ll be well-loved by his two new young humans.

Merry Christmas and happy lives, Charlie and Linus. We hope you can be reunited now and again in our Puppy Socialization class. We’ll hope to see you there.