Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs,
Good with cats,
Needs experienced adopter,
House-trained,
Story
Cherry's Story
Cherry's story before coming to us is a mystery. She was found wandering alone in a park, with no one looking for her and no indication of where she came from. While we may never know her past, it was clear she had not been well cared for. She arrived missing patches of fur, covered in scrapes and scars, and was later diagnosed with mange caused by mites. Many of her scars were likely the result of encounters with other dogs.
What was even more heartbreaking was how frightened she was. When Cherry first arrived, she was so scared of people that she would urinate when approached. But even through her fear, she showed us how brave she is. She really wanted to make friends she just didn't know how to trust yet.
Since then, Cherry has made incredible progress. Her body is healing, her confidence is growing, and every day she becomes a little more comfortable with the people around her. She absolutely loves cuddles and pets, and she greets her favorite people with joyful zoomies. While Cherry has shown us she can be uncertain in new places, she flourishes in areas that she is now comfortable in. She went from hiding in the bushes in our dog yards to now getting zoomies and relentlessly playing ball.
Training & Support
Cherry is still learning that the world is a safe place. She will need a patient adopter who can continue helping her build confidence through positive experiences and gentle encouragement. Socialization will be important, but it needs to happen at Cherry's pace. She responds best to kindness, routine, and lots of positive reinforcement. With time and patience, Cherry continues to show just how much she can grow.
Ideal Home
Cherry would thrive in a quiet, calm home with a predictable routine.
She would do best without young children, as loud noises and sudden activity can be overwhelming for her. While she has done well with some dogs, we feel she would be most successful starting out as the only pet while she settles into her new home. In the future, she may be able to live with another dog with proper introductions. But for now she needs time to learn dogs are ok and work on socializing with them in a positive manner.
A ground-floor home or apartment would be ideal, as we don't yet know how she would handle elevators or busy apartment hallways. Cherry may be able to live with a dog experienced cat, she didn't have much of a reaction to a kitty during her testing and was very gentle when nose to nose with a rabbit at the shelter.
Most of all, Cherry is looking for a family willing to give her the time, patience, and love she needs to continue blossoming into the happy, confident dog we know she can be. If you're looking for a sweet, resilient dog and would love to be part of her journey, Cherry might just be the perfect match.
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Ready to Apply?
If you would like to meet Cherry, please download an application from our website at:
vancouver.ca/adoption-form
Then, email your complete application to: animal.shelter@vancouver.ca
If your application is approved, we will contact you to arrange a meet and greet.
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All adult dogs at Animal Services have veterinary health checks, and are spayed or neutered, vaccinated, dewormed and defleaed (if necessary) before going to their new homes.
Children: No
Cats: Yes
Dogs: Best to be the only dog in the house. Maybe compatible once she settles in.
Training Needs: Socialization and confidence building
Adoption Fee: $391
If you live in the City of Vancouver, you will also need to purchase a dog licence.
For more information on our adoption process, go to vancouver.ca/adopt
