Our Transfer Program Provides a Special Needs Dog with a Second Chance When Dolly came to Larimer Humane Society, it was clear that she would be a special case. At only two years old, this sweet Great Dane was partially blind and deaf, with signs of dental disease and a possible heart condition. With these physical problems, Dolly had some trouble perceiving the world around her, making her feel scared and vulnerable during her first few days at the shelter.

However, with time, Dolly warmed up and we began to see her friendly personality come to the surface. She started to come to the front of her kennel, tail wagging, ready for treats and attention. Still, even with her “gentle giant” disposition, we knew she would need a home that knew how to take care of her large breed and special needs.

Luckily, Larimer Humane Society has a fantastic transfer program, with strong relationships with other in-state shelters, breed specific rescues, and out-of-state programs. While we often transfer in animals that are having trouble being adopted in their own communities, we also transfer some animals out to places that are better equipped to handle their unique breed, needs, or personality. In Dolly’s case, we knew with the right support and care she could successful in a home setting and we wanted to give her a better chance of a “forever home” by placing her at an organization with programs already in place for individual needs.

Dolly didn’t have to wait long—within a few days we had a couple of trusted partners that wanted to take her in, and soon she was successfully transferred and put into a specially equipped foster family. Now, we are happy to report that she has found a forever family! Her new home is set up specifically for dogs with sight and hearing disabilities, with special scent markers to help her navigate, and she has plenty of dogs just like her to play with. Thanks to our wonderful transfer partners and our transfer program, Dolly has found a family that is truly perfect for her.