Trudie has a lot of heart and soul to share! Are you looking for a new best friend?It's time to set the record straight...
UPDATE! TRUDIE HAS BEEN ADOPTED!!!
It’s time to set the record straight!
Big, black dogs are subject to the “Black Dog Stigma,” facing the highest rates of euthanasia and the lowest rates of adoption. At shelters and sanctuaries across the United States, there are rows of black dogs watching as family after family passes them by. While many potential homes overlook black dogs, their outside appearance is truly no measure for the personality within.
The exact reason for the disparity between the adoption rates of lighter colored and darker colored dogs is unclear, but black dogs have been subjected to decades of inaccurate and unflattering characterizations. From The Hound of the Baskervilles to Harry Potter, black dogs have represented frightening beings throughout history and literature. Winston Churchill referred to depression as “the black dog.” And even the commonly used “Beware of Dog” signs depict a black dog, complete with bared teeth and a salivating mouth. While large black dogs may appear frightening or aggressive, their personalities are as varied as their coats are similar. Trudie and Bella, two residents at Pasado’s, exemplify the vast range of personalities packaged in a sleek, black coat.
Bella is big, black and beautiful!
Trudie and Bella are senior dogs who were picked up as strays. These black beauties were both rescued by Pasado’s and they are currently living in A.A.R.F.F. at Pasado’s sanctuary. Trudie and Bella are yearning to find their special someone and forever home. Even though they made it safely behind our sanctuary’s gates, they still can’t escape the black dog stigma: they have been at Pasado’s longer than almost any other canine resident. They dream of the day when they will find their forever homes – and perhaps celebrating black dogs will help these dreams become a reality.
While these two sweethearts have much in common, their personalities are very different. Ten-year-old Trudie came from Kitsap. She had been a stray and was at the Kitsap shelter for quite some time, overlooked time and again for lighter colored dogs. Pasado’s rescued Trudie in January, and again this sweet senior has watched the seasons turn as she has waited for her forever family. Trudie is a cuddler who prefers to be the only dog in the household, although she wouldn’t mind feline siblings. Trudie is independent, interesting, and needs nothing more than the company of people to make her happy. She just wants to be with her person, cuddling and enjoying leisurely walks.
Bella was a stray who came in from Tacoma. Although she is 12 years old, she acts very young and always wants to play and be active. When you speak to her, she tilts her head inquisitively, trying to take in what you are saying. Bella has a humorous, mischievous personality, playfully teasing other dogs and the caregivers, as well. Bella always makes our caregivers smile: she is so full of life and she will always be young at heart. Bella needs to find a home where there are no birds or cats. She would do best with an experienced dog owner and she isn’t recommended for a first-time pet owner. Bella is a strong walker and would love to have room to roam around.
Pasado's Caretaker, Malli, gets some love from Bella
Trudie and Bella are hoping to beat the black dog stigma and finally find their families. Black dogs are at a disadvantage not only because of the negative connotations associated with them, but because they are difficult to see in dimly lit shelters and are not as photogenic as lighter-coated canines, requiring special lighting and backdrops to be visible. Black dogs also gray earlier than lighter dogs and often look older than they are. And biology seems to be against black dogs, as well: darker colored dogs tend to have litters of five puppies or more, increasing overpopulation and leading to an overabundance of dark dogs in particular.
But for as many reasons as one could find to not adopt a black dog, there are just as many reasons to give them a chance at life and at love. A black dog’s coat doesn’t clash with furniture or clothing, conceals dirt effectively, and is always in fashion. While many think that black dogs shed more than lighter colored dogs, the opposite is often true, and the darker hair is easier to find and thus quicker to clean up. But the most important reason to adopt a black dog is that they need you.
Trudie is longing to be by your side! This easy-going gal just loves the company of being near people.
If you think that your heart and home have room for either Trudie or Bella, please contact Pasado’s to learn about our adoption process.
Let’s get the word out that black dogs bring just as much joy and companionship. We can make black dogs the “new black” and provide a second chance to those who truly need it most.