Some dogs come to us with funny stories. Alaska comes to us with one that still makes our hearts hurt. She was found beneath a road, tucked inside a culvert with her puppies. No warm bed, no safe home, no one looking after her. Just a mother doing everything she could to keep her babies alive.

When help arrived, Alaska quietly watched as her puppies were carried to safety, one by one. And when the last puppy was gone? THEY LEFT HER BEHIND. Animal control was told to collect her and essentially do whatever they wanted with her.

Excuse us. THIS WOMAN JUST RAISED AN ENTIRE FAMILY IN A STORM DRAIN, AND SOMEONE DECIDED SHE WAS DISPOSABLE?!

We have several questions. None of them are polite. Thankfully, Alaska was rescued. But her journey to Rhode Island was delayed when she tested positive for heartworm disease and needed treatment. Twice, we had to pass on bringing her north while she completed treatment and waited for medical clearance. And twice, we hoped another rescue would recognize what a wonderful girl she was. But months passed.

When we finally got the news that she was cleared to travel, there was no discussion necessary. We were bringing our girl home!

Meet Alaska. She’s gentle, a little shy, and incredibly sweet. She loves other dogs, does well with cats, and absolutely adores being talked to.

Seriously. Talk to this girl. Tell her she’s beautiful. Tell her she’s a good girl. Tell her about the coworker who keeps scheduling meetings that could have definitely been emails. Alaska has been through enough. She’s happy to listen to your problems for a change.

She’s still learning to feel comfortable on a leash and can be frightened by sudden movements, especially above her head. She needs patience, kindness, and someone willing to let her learn that she’s finally safe. Another friendly dog could be a wonderful companion to help her settle in.

After everything Alaska has experienced, she still wants to love and be loved. She still seeks affection, she still enjoys being near people, and she still has so much sweetness to give. We want her to have a family who talks to her while making dinner. Someone who saves her a comfortable spot on the couch. A home where she never has to wonder if she’s being left behind again.

We want her to discover that she doesn’t have to spend every day taking care of someone else because someone is FINALLY going to take care of her.