Tri-Pawed Diego Finds His Forever Home

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Diego settles in quickly with members of his forever family, Markus Ray and Johnny Gaspar.

Did you know that the month of May includes National Specially Abled Pets Day, a day that recognizes special pups (and other pets!) like me who have experienced adversity and come out even stronger on the other side? 

For that reason, I always liked May - but now, it’s officially my favorite month because this May, I found my forever home. I’m Diego, and here’s my story (spoiler alert, it has a happy ending!)...

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Diego helping with work from home.

I was found as a stray with scrapes and cuts from other dogs who wanted to prove that they were tough. What they didn’t know is that I’m tough too, and can get through anything. When I was found, my left front leg was bent and swollen, and I couldn’t walk on it. After a few X-rays, the vet discovered that at some point in my young pup life, my elbow had been fractured or broken and it never healed properly. Turns out, what everyone originally thought was swelling was actually bone that had grown over my elbow. It was decided that the best option would be to amputate the injured leg, so I could have a life free from pain and joint damage.

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Diego in foster care.

Then, in March (officially not my favorite month now!), COVID-19 became a global pandemic and shelter in place was ordered in Silicon Valley. My surgery was put on hold for a bit as the hospital worked out their processes. Then, on April 20, I had a successful amputation. Thanks to the love, care and dedication of my vets and foster family, I was able to rehabilitate beautifully, and began to hop along in the house and yard, go outside regularly to sunbathe (during shelter in place, getting regular vitamin D is especially important!) and just hang out and enjoy my foster family’s company.

Little did I know, there was a family that was eager to adopt me even before the shelter in place order! Once I healed from surgery, I met them again and the connection we all felt from our first meeting was still strong. Most importantly, they weren’t put off by the fact that I have three legs instead of four, but rather, embraced it as something that makes me extra special. 

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Yoga, Diego style!

Now, I’m home with my new paw-rents and living my best tri-pawed life. This May (and every month!), I encourage everyone to consider fostering or adopting a specially-abled pet (check out SVPP’s special needs pet profiles here.) After all, what makes us all different makes us beautiful!

Diego

Alandea Muñoz, SVPP volunteer and guest blogger, helped Diego with his typing!

Zeus, Part Deux!

Zeus Celebrates Life on Wheels

I’m a happy camper these days.  I have a wonderful foster mom, an amazing foster family (complete with three foster dogs!), and a gift that is making me heck on wheels — literally!

You may know that when I was rescued from the shelter, I had some pretty big challenges including paralysis in my hind legs.  With the generosity, compassion and expertise of Cree Guardino, a pet lover and chiropractor in Willow Glen, I have a custom set of wheels that allows me to go on walks.  I am barking happy that I can cruise the city with my foster family including brothers Bear, Chief and Pippa.  I am enjoying a fuller and healthier life while I am looking for my forever family.  With all of this activity, I feel like I am the poster dog for National Canine Fitness month!  I promise you that I’m keeping social distancing mandates in mind!

I am so very grateful to SVPP for rescuing me from the San Jose shelter and to my foster mom Ashley for helping me mend!  Now that I am ready for the rest of my life, you can learn more about me, well, almost everywhere!  I have my own Facebook page and you can follow me @a dog named Zeus. I’m SVPP’s Adoptable Dog of the Month and I have my own Cuddly campaign to help raise funds for my special needs.

If you are looking for your own special love, I would be thrilled if you would consider me.

Licks and love,

Zeus

Editor’s note:  Cree Guardino rescued her dog, Chetak, from India.  Chetak is paralyzed in his back legs.  Cress used her knowledge of the spine to create low-cost wheels for dogs in need.  Until her “wheels” website is fully functional, you can contact Cree Guardino via chetakwheels.com.

I’m Zeus and I’m Special!

Hello all! My name is Zeus and I’m special in so many ways!  Let me share some of them with you!  First of all, I was rescued by Silicon Valley Pet Project from San Jose Animal Care Center just an hour before the shelter shut down due to the county’s stay at home ordinance.  Talk about just in the nick of time!  I have to bark a thank you to Ashley Adkins for rescuing me! BARK!

I’m also special because I love and am affectionate towards everyone — even with my very special needs.  I have some neurological problems and related paralysis in my hind legs.  I use belly bands to help me with some urine dripping, but I don’t let these things get in my way!  I will be getting my own wheelchair soon and am looking forward to more mobility.

I have my own Facebook page so you can follow me as I #stayathome with my foster family.  I also have my own Cuddly campaign so that my friends out there can donate to my care.  

Most importantly, I’m special because SVPP is helping me find my forever family.  I’m a 5-year old Cairn Terrier with lots of love to give.  I hope I can give it to you!

Love to all of you!

Zeus

Bolt and Eevee: Happily Ever After!

A Valentine's Day Celebration

Two little pooches sitting in a tree, k-i-s-s-i-n-g.  First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes a cuddle with Eevee!  This is my favorite Valentine's Day song!

My name is Bolt and my rhyming isn’t perfect, but my Eevee is!   Eevee is my wife and best friend of more than 2-½ years.  I’m thrilled to share our tail-wagging story with you! 

We met in May 2017 at the Los Gatos Creek Dog Park and it was love at first sight!  Eevee was the pooch of my dreams!  There wasn’t a bark of doubt in my mind — when you know, you know! — and it wasn’t long before I woofed the question.  I proposed to Eevee at the Lazy Dog Restaurant in Cupertino in August 2017. 

A few weeks later — after a short engagement and much preparation! — we had a beautiful wedding ceremony at the Los Gatos Creek Park with all of our dog park bestees and people friends in attendance!  Claudia and Albert and Wayne and Rebecca were the proud pawrents of the groom and bride. We honeymooned with our families in Carmel!

We have the best ever life together and we even recently celebrated our romance at Pup Plaza, in honor of Valentine’s Day.  We play and tussel together, see who can run faster and jump higher, share toys and treats, and nap in tandem.  We sometimes argue about who gets to ride shotgun when we take rides, BUT, we never forget to cuddle before we call it a day. 

We feel very lucky to be in love and wish all of our fellow pets (okay, even cats!) a very Happy Valentine’s Day.  You can follow us on Facebook and Instagram (@bolt_thepup & @eeveepupcorn).

Xoxo,

Bolt

I'm a Happy (Not Yappy) Girl and I'm Ready for My New Future!

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Who doesn’t love a love? That’s me! My name is Ginger and I am ready for my forever home. I’m an easy going gal who is happy, and not yappy! I’m part pug and part Chihuahua -- and am the best of both. I love kids and other dogs, ignore cats and am always ready for a cuddle. Can I join you for an occasional walk or easy hike? I’m ready! Should we try some new toys together? I’m game! I’m 12 pounds of wonderful and 7-years old. I’m also a star! I’m Pup Plaza’s Adoptable Dog of the Month for January 2020! Isn't that awesome?

I ended up in the shelter as a “stray” — no collar and no microchip so my original family could not locate me and the shelter had no clue about my home. My friends at SVPP picked me to come into the group’s foster program and also helped me get some dental work done. Now, I am happy, healthy and ready for my forever family!   

Come meet me at Pup Plaza during our adoptable dog events and see my adoption profile here.  

Xoxo, Ginger

Poster Pup, Nino, Struts for SVPP

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Nino and his dad, Sid.

My name is Nino, I am very proud to say that the Best Friends’ Strut Your Mutt event last month was a huge success for SVPP!  And, I think I helped! I was recruited to be the SVPP Poster Pup (see adorable photos of me below!) and served on site as a walker and ambassador!

My dad, Sid, drove me to the event at San Francisco’s Little Marina Green, and even walked with me!  We posed for photographs, strolled in view of the beautiful Golden Gate Bridge and made so many new friends!  It was an amazing experience!

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SVPP Super Strutters!

Thanks to all of you who supported SVPP, we raised more than $20,000, and beat our $15,000 goal!  It must have been that cute flyers and posters of me (okay, maybe a little bit!).  These dollars count — and I know that personally!  SVPP rescued me as a stray from the San Jose shelter because I was in need of serious dental work.  I was adopted by my mom and dad, Kathleen and Sid, just last March, complete with a new and healthy grin!

I’m working out and getting ready to walk next year.  I hope you’ll join me!

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Nino poses for the puparazzi at the Best Friends Strut Your Mutt event last month in San Francisco. SVPP raised more than $20,000 to care for its rescued, homeless pets.

Homeward Bound to My Furever Family

Hi, I’m Frida and I am a delightful and darling deaf dachshund. I recently found my forever happy home and I’m discovering new adventures every single day! Here’s a “tail” of my very first day with my new dad!

 When I arrived at my new house, there was a nice fella with a long white beard there to greet me! I know what you’re thinking… it’s Santa Claus!  Well, I’ll do you one better!  That man is now my new dad, Theo, and we are having a blast together. I took a good, long sniff around the house and was even introduced to a kitty cat, who seemed like she had no bones about me.

 My dad found a chew toy for me to run around and play with, and that is just what I decided to do. After a while, I became sleepy, so I decided to catch some z’s in my cozy new bed by my dad’s office desk.

 After snoozing, I decided to find a safe spot for my toy.  So, I went on a hot pursuit, looking for the perfect hiding place.

 Under the dining room chair? No, too obvious. Dad would probably find it.

Near Miss Cat? Definitely not!

 Aha! At last, I found the perfect spot… under the covers of my dog bed, of course!  But, just as I was burying the treasured toy, I caught a glimpse of my dad watching me this whole time! Doggone it! Strike one…on to a new hiding spot. With a little more sniffing and hunting, I think I found the most ideal and secret location. Okay, I’ll tell you, but make sure you don’t tell a soul!  Shhh… it’s outside between the big rubbery snow tires and the tall wooden fence. Whew… after all that work my little legs became tired, so I decided to take a quick siesta. Wasn’t that a good idea?

 All I could dream about was my new toy! Waking from my nap, the first thing on my mind was to grab my toy! But don’t you worry, I remembered exactly where I put that fluffy thing! I briskly trotted in the house and over to my dog bed, to find… nothing! *Gasp* I looked to my dad and said, “Hmm, that’s strange. I could have sworn I put it here.” Back outside I go to hunt down my buried treasure. Now where did I put that thing?

In the flower pot? Nope.

On the porch? No, not there.

 Alas, I found it!  Right where I left it!  Silly me!  I cautiously took my toy back to my bed for a chew break. Then, I beelined it to the backyard to find the perfect spot to bury my toy once again. The first three spots weren’t quite right, but the fourth spot was perfect!  I toss my toy to the bottom of a hole where a plant once laid. “This time, I won’t forget where I placed you”, I said to my toy.

 I went out for a short walk and built up an appetite. I ate dinner and aimed straight for my bed.

This time, as I laid down, slowly dozing off to sleep, I told my dad, “this will work out just fine.”

Amy Yasukawa, SVPP's summer intern, helped Frida scribe her blog.

My Visit with Pawpular Pups at PetCon

Hi, I’m Chief!  Let me tell you about a pawsitively perfect event I attended, called PetCon. It was an enormous, fun and pet-focused convention held last month in Los Angeles.  I was one lucky boy as my mom, Ashley, took me along with a few of my pup friends. And let me tell you, I have never seen so many dogs in one place! There were a lot of four-legged friends like me, both big and small, and of course, many two-legged human friends as well.

What is PetCon you might ask? Well, our new intern, Amy, interviewed me about my experience at the event!

What was your favorite part of PetCon?

My favorite pawrt about PetCon was the food! My mom took me to a booth that created my face with a pancake! I had to model and stay still while they were drawing me with pancake batter. And boy, did it smell yummy! The finished product looked like me, but less furry and less handsome.

Did you meet any of your four-legged celebrity idols?

Ever heard of Bush’s baked beans? Well, I got to meet the famous Duke (@itsdukebush) himself! I would consider him one of my idols because he gets to be around those good smelling beans all the time! I tried to get the famous recipe, but the Bush family secret is still safe!

Did you meet any other impressive friends?Y

Yes, of course! There was a pup that pushed around a shopping cart, which would be amazing to master so I could go grocery shopping once in a while! I also saw Louboutina (@louboutinanyc), the famous hugging golden retriever. I also give great hugs, and kisses too!

What activities did you participate in at PetCon?

There were so many activities to do at the convention! I got to sit on a comfy couch, which made me feel like the “Chief” of Police. I met a nice lady, I think my mom called her a psychic reader. She told my mom all about my past (before I was adopted), and also told her what makes me happy! I posed for countless photos with new friends -- the pawparazzi were everywhere! My mom got to chat with numerous two-legged friends, vendors, and panelists at the convention as well. There were food trucks and even artists who drew a cartoon version of me!

Oh, before I forget, did you know I’m on Instagram? I’m famous! It’s @thetravelsofchief, so use those paws to add me, because I’m what you may call, a social butterfly and love meeting new friends!

Well, hope you enjoyed reading about my adventures at PetCon!

Xoxo,

Chief

Editor’s Note: Amy Yasukawa, SVPP’s summer intern, worked closely with Chief on his blog — even scribing as he described his PetCon experience.  

I want to be your Hero!

Who do you know that loves a snuggle as much as a walk, a ride as much as a nap, a cat as much as a dog (or person!), and alone time as much as some company?

It’s me, Hero. I’m a 12-year old Chihuahua mix and I’m every bit the wonderful companion pet that you could hope for and love!

I was surrendered to the shelter because of my age, but I’m the very best a 12-year-old could be. In fact, my foster mom says 12 is the new 10!

I’m perfectly house trained and crate trained, and will make you proud with my grasp of basic commands.

And, oh, does your demanding schedule make you worry about adoption? Honestly (and if I can say so myself!), I’m the ideal pet for someone with a busy lifestyle. I’m super happy when you’re home and also perfectly content to bide my time with some R&R when you’re out! In fact, “nap” could be my middle name. I’m happy to co-exist with easy-going, calm cats and dogs, older kids and any adult who loves me. I’m a grade-A snuggler who knows how to make the best of a warm lap. Going for a drive? I can tag along!

To learn more about adopting me, click here. I hope to meet you soon!

Xoxo,

Hero

Five Fabulous Reasons Why We Should be Family!

My name is Waffles and I need to bend your ear (although mine are pointed!). I’ve been in foster care for a while — in dog and people time — and I am soooooo ready for my forever home! Here are five fabulous reasons why you will hopefully love me, adopt me and make me part of your family...

1. I am like the best waffle ever! I’m a little crunchy on the outside but sweet and warm on the inside! It takes a minute to find my soft spot, but once we’re friends, I am fun, quirky, devoted, and affectionate. I’m all about the cuddle, the walk and — you choose — an awesome toy or bone! Don’t even get me started on tricks!

2. I’m mature without being old! I’m about 10 years old and am probably a Virgo — loyal, analytical, kind, hardworking, and practical, with a marvelous little bark.

3. I’m one of a kind! I’m a 13-pound mix, and you know that the best dogs are mutts! But, I come from good, honorable stock — Chihuahua, probably some Spaniel, maybe some Terrier...I have some enviable curly locks and cute pointed ears that are best of breed (I mean best of many breeds!).

4. I’m famous! You can find me adorably depicted on the Pup Plaza mural in all of my canine splendor. I was probably born to be a model. Woof!

5. I can fit beautifully in a home as a solo pet – and be a devoted member of the family. Like all dogs, I do best with a little routine and some good structure to bring out the very best Waffles in me!

My foster mom is amazing, but limbo can be hard. I’m ready to begin the next phase of my life and maybe it will be with you. Please fill out an adoption application today!

Xoxo, Waffles

It was a Hard-knock Life Until SVPP Rescued Me

My name is Pipsqueak and I was rescued from the San Jose Animal Care Center.  Silicon Valley Pet Project (SVPP) saved my life!

I’m 8 years old and was suffering from really bad teeth, an enlarged heart (which makes sense since I have so much love to give!) and a luxated patella.  I don’t know what that is, but I had a hard time walking.

With the amazing care of Angie, my foster mommy (I love her!), and my wonderful medical team, I had all of my medical woes fixed!  I want to wag my tail in thanks to The Pet Specialists of Monterey, VCA Blossom Hill and SAGE Veterinary Care. Now, I’m bouncing around with happiness waiting for my forever family.  

I am so grateful to everyone who helped me, cared for me and loved me.  I’m one lucky little girl!

I know that SVPP paid thousands of dollars to ensure I would have an amazing life, and I can’t begin to repay them.  It’s hard for a cute chihuahua like me to find good work. So, I’m looking to all the amazing animal lovers in our community to help me repay this gift I’ve been given -- the gift of life.  

But mostly, I’m looking for that bed I will call my own for the rest of my years.

Here’s a little more about me...I love to cuddle with my guardian and take brisque walks.  I’m especially appreciative of the distance I can go — up to a full mile! — since this was a challenge before my leg and ticker were fixed!  I have a terrific appetite and squeak for my meals! Surprisingly, I love fresh veggies like peas, green beans, cauliflower and broccoli, and nothing beats a sliced carrot for dessert!  By the way, I’m perfectly house trained and have even mastered the doggie door!

I am sooooo lucky and look forward to meeting my forever family! Please fill out an adoption application for me here.

Check out my Tale of Three Surgeries: https://animoto.com/play/U24DalNpqwV03ybbSKFIWw

Silicon Valley Pet Project relies on donations to help dogs like Pipsqueak get the medical care they require. 

Pup Plaza, Silicon Valley’s first Dog Community Center, is Now Open to Dogs and People!

Why a Dog Community Center?

This past #GivingTuesday, Pup Plaza, Silicon Valley Pet Project’s latest initiative, had its official opening to the public. We are excited about the potential of Silicon Valley’s first dog community center and the positive impact we hope to achieve. The new facility is located in the Cambrian Plaza Shopping Center in San Jose and we welcome visitors!

Mike Colgan of KCBS Radio came to our event and was tickled by the concept that dogs should have their own community center. By the time he left, he understood SVPP’s vision: a community center that helps dogs in need! KCBS Radio’s video can be seen here.

So, why a dog community center? The better question is: why not? We seek to offer a space for the community to celebrate the special bond between humans and canines, all with a mission to help dogs that need homes.

In the short month since Pup Plaza opened, we have already made an impact. 

Enjoying time out of the shelter!

We have provided some much-needed stress relief for 25 shelter dogs through our Shelter Dog Day Out Program (in partnership with the San Jose Animal Care Center).

We have hosted 4 weekly dog adoption events in a comfortable, relaxing environment and provided guidance on adoption.

We have offered 2 Doga Sessions (Yoga + Dogs) where people and their dogs enjoyed some quality time together and a deeper bond.

Doga at Pup Plaza

We have hosted 2 weekly free behavior meet-ups with our certified dog trainer to help keep dogs in their homes and out of the shelter.

We have welcomed individuals who don't have dogs of their own to join us at our weekly Community Open Hours for a little unconditional love.

Getting his dog fix!

We have proudly worked with an Eagle Scout group to provide custom built dog houses for Pup Plaza's outdoor space.

Henry and inspiration, Frodo

Custom-made dog houses for Pup Plaza

Our one-of-a-kind dog community center would not be what it is without the captivating mural by Phuong-Mai “Mai” Blasich. Mai's depiction of some of our beloved rescue dogs provides a joyful backdrop to a space dedicated to dogs and the community who cares for them. Read more about the mural at Pup Plaza here.

Pups of Silicon Valley Pet Project

We are excited about Pup Plaza's potential and dedicated to our mission of saving at-risk local shelter pets through rescue, community involvement, and education.

Connect with us through Pup Plaza's Instagram and Facebook to celebrate the love of dogs!

Adoptable Dog of the Month - November 2018

MEET OUR DOG OF THE MONTH, CLEMENTINE!

Clementine is 9 years old, 9 pounds, and wants nothing better than to be your constant companion. She also is great with other dogs, and cats! Learn more about Clementine here!