By Susan Spisak
The Grateful Dog, TGD, was founded in 2017 by Kaitlyn Hankins with the help of her father, Joe Hankins. They now boast upwards of fifty core volunteers and a small board. This foster-based rescue is dedicated to saving dogs from euthanasia and unsuitable living situations.
They do not get many in-state relinquishments, so instead they pull dogs from at-risk situations in Alabama and Texas. Their focus is on breeds that they can rehome quickly, such as Bully breeds, Lab mixes, and puppies. Volunteer Lora Gonce indicated they’re transporting about fifteen dogs in-state a month, but that can change based on the number of open fosters. TGD uses their own transport vehicle, professional transport companies, or Dog is My Co-Pilot, a rescue plane organization.
They have a more inclusive, accessible approach to adopting. After a potential adopter fills out an application, they’ll check references including three non-family members and a vet (if applicable). Once approved, the adoption team collaborates with the applicant to determine the best match, and they’ll be put in touch with the foster. To protect the safety and privacy of TGD’s foster families, all meet and greets are held in public locations.
Lora said on April 12, they’re holding a “What is Fostering?” session at The Black Dog General Store at 215 Commercial St. in Portland from 11 am to 3 pm. Then on May 10, an adoption event is kicking off at Ann-imals pet supply store at 1 York St in York. TGD reps will be in store. Then they’ll move to SOME, Southern Maine Brewery, right behind the supply store from 1 pm to 4 pm. It is a fun, dog-friendly event, and they’ll have rescues on site and ready for adoption. Lora said it’s important to have an approved app with them—if you attend and fall in love with an adoptable, you can take the dog home that day!
Ask about Kelsie at these events. Lora said she is a long termer who is special. She’s a black mix who gets along famously with her people, but she prefers to be the star of the show, so no other pets in her adoptive home. Her ideal family will recognize that she’ll truly appreciate being showered with the devotion she richly deserves. Because they want to help Kelsie find her home, her adoption fee has been waived.
There’s a need for more fosters.
These loving home environments go a long way to heal the dogs and prepare them for adoption. Without fosters, their dogs may not have a second chance at finding their forever homes. Side note: TGD wants to give a shout out and big thanks to their primary and dedicated vet partner, York Animal Hospital.
TGD needs pet food, clean sheets, bedding, and towels. They can be dropped off at events or email them and a volunteer can arrange to meet you. Check out their Amazon Wish on their site. For info on TGD including applications, fostering, donating, and available dogs, thegratefuldogrescue.org/.
KELSIE
7 year old, Mixed Breed
She has been waiting 3 years for a home! Loves EVERY human she meets. She is calm and very loyal. Prefers to be an only dog and who can blame her? After waiting so long for her forever she deserves to get all the love. The sweetest most affectionate girl. She even comes with a $250 training class incentive to help her transition into a new home be as seamless as possible.
CZAR
3 years old, Terrier-Pit Mix
This hilarious, playful, and affectionate charmer has a knack for making everyone laugh, and he's always up for a good time. But don't let his goofy sense of humor fool you - Czar is also a loyal companion, always happy to snuggle up on the couch and soak up the attention. When he's not busy being a couch potato, he is a brave and adventurous pup who loves to explore. He’s not rambunctious - he's a gentle soul who just wants to be loved. He LOVES other dogs and would benefit from another in the home!
DESPERADO
1.5 years old Shepherd Mix
A pup looking for a dedicated and patient owner to help him build his confidence. Once he trusts you, he will shower you with love and loyalty. Desperado thrives with other dogs and would do best in a home with at least one canine companion. His ideal home will be calm and nurturing, with an owner who’s experienced with timid dogs. If you're ready to invest your time and love you may just find a lifelong companion. His adoption fee’s waived, the adopter will receive a $250 stipend if they complete training classes within 4-8 weeks of adoption.