LOUISVILLE, Ky. — This week Louisville Metro Animal Services (LMAS) is at "code red" status, meaning some dogs are spending their last moments in the shelter before facing a heartbreaking fate to make space.
This is something the shelter attributes to our community not properly caring for their animals with too many strays coming in and not enough lost pets going out. But it’s also something our community can help battle by choosing to adopt instead of shop for a new pet.
For 8-year-old "Grits", life moves slowly these days. She is a Cane Corso mix who came into the shelter when her owner left her behind.
"She's a very sweet older gal, just wants someone to love and cuddle with her. That's what she wants -- just to be in your lap. She loves a treat and a belly rub,” LMAS staff member Jade McLean said.
You can tell from her belly she has been mama to many rounds of litters. Now, she is spayed and so ready to relax.
"She's ready to retire,” McLean said.
Staff hopes Grits’ retirement looks a lot like the sweet moments they’ve shared with her at the shelter, with an unlimited supply of love, scratches and easy living.
"She doesn't' need walks or anything like that. She's not into this summer heat. She just likes to chill in the air conditioning," McLean said.
Grits is considered very low energy. She gets along with other dogs as long as they match her energy, or lack thereof. She is leash trained, house trained and knows her basic commands.
"She is the sweetest girl I have met in long time. She really just wants attention. Someone to love her. I think she would make a great addition to any home,” McLean said.
When you adopt an animal from a local shelter, it’s important to remember it may take some time for them to truly settle in and show their true personality. The staff call the “3-3-3” rule.
The first three days:
The dogs won't be comfortable enough to be themselves and may hide, avoid food or water and feel overwhelmed.
The first three weeks:
The dogs will start to settle in, hopefully feeling comfortable enough to explore and let their guard down. You may notice behavior problems and this could be a good time to work on training.
The first three months:
Realistically it will take three months for the animals to be completely comfortable in their new home. They'll start to build trust and true bonds with their new family and finally you will be able to establish a routine that works for everyone.
Shay McAlister will be introducing you to a new dog every week in our WHAS Shelter Stars series. You can watch on WHAS11 at 4 p.m. every Thursday.
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