We turn the big 5-0 on March 25, 2025! As part of our month-long celebration, enjoy this collection of adoption stories over the years. It’s great for a pick-me-up whenever you need one – or a reminder of how much of a difference shelter work makes in the lives of both pets and the people who love them!
PLUS: Feeling inspired to adopt a dog? Dog adoption fees are 50% OFF, March 21-23 in honor of our 50th Birthday! Meet Our Pets
PLUS PLUS: Join us on Saturday, March 29, 2-4 pm for our Birthday Open House at the Adoption Center (map)! We’ll have cupcakes, giveaways, and good animal-loving company. All retail will be 50% off and we’ll have commemorative 50th Birthday car magnets to give away just for our Open House guests. Want to bring a birthday present? Check out our Wish List for always-needed items, and monetary gifts always help too!
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Stella’s Adoption Story, From Jill:
“Once married, my husband and I knew that we wanted a dog to be part of our family. In 2018, I reached out to my dear friend Katie Hoffman and said, “when you find the perfect adult dog, the one you cannot figure out why she isn’t getting adopted, let me know.” And a couple months later, Katie called me regarding a dog at Woodford Humane Society that had 6 puppies. She let me know that the mom was also up for adoption and would be the perfect fit for our new family. After a couple visits, my husband and I agreed, and once the puppies were all adopted, we brought home Stella.
Stella was not pretty, she had lost a lot of hair from her pregnancy. Stella was terrified of everything besides my husband and me, her whole body shaking when introduced to anything new. But with lots of love, socialization, obedience classes, and medicated shampoo, she turned into a beautiful, confident dog.
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Ollie’s Adoption Story, From Kim:
“Woodford Humane Society is such an amazing place with the most AMAZING people that work there. I love coming to visit you all. I can’t thank you all enough for taking care of Ollie until it was our time to meet. He was well cared for & very well loved. Woodford County & Central Kentucky is so lucky to have an amazing shelter like Woodford Humane Society. It’s a model of how every shelter should be.
Ollie was such a quirky dog! He had a very small group of people he was okay with & if you weren’t in that circle, he wanted nothing to do with you. He LOVED to eat! Loved cat food & got a bit or two of canned cat food every day. When it was meal time, he’d bark. How I miss that. Not sure if he was just excited to eat or if he was telling me to hurry up. He got along with his brothers & liked his feline sisters. He was such a good dog, but everything had to be on his terms & we were okay with that.
Not sure if you know this. We weren’t looking for a second dog. My “dream” dog is a black, senior, pit bull. Someone had posted him on Nextdoor encouraging people to reach out to the shelter. When I saw his pic, there he was, my “perfect” dog. When I called, whoever I talked to told me everything that was wrong with him including he didn’t like men. It didn’t deter me. The first time I met Ollie, he didn’t want anything to do with me & moved away from me when I reached down to pet him. We knew he had issues & we were more than happy to work with him. We had him for six days before he gave me a tiny little tail wag.
Dogs with issues teach you so much. You learn to understand dog behavior better & you become a better dog parent & person. Ollie taught us so much! He was loved deeply & we miss him terribly.
We are so honored that you are going to share his story in March. He was a very special boy. Those who loved him were lucky.”
From Woodford Humane:
Ollie – we called him Wayne – was one of our longest residents. Kim adopted him just before his 3 year anniversary with us in 2017, and to this day he’s the only “Wayne” we have in our pet database. He was an icon like that! Ollie spent the first 6 years of his life at the end of a chain, and he came to us terrified of everyone. He came to love us, and we’re so glad Kim gave him the time he needed to love her and her family too! He couldn’t have asked for a better forever home.
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Cody’s Adoption Story, From Mindy:
“In January last year, we had lost one of our 3 cats. And, after many years and multiple cats coming into our home, and from many different situations, somehow just two seemed like an uneven number! My husband, Ron, had been secretively going to WHS looking for another brown tabby. Knowing this was a family decision, he then asked me to go with him for a visit.
We visited with many cats that afternoon, but my mind and heart knew Landon was the right one. After adopting and bringing Landon home we were rethinking his name, and after watching a western movie with Buffalo Bill Cody, that was it, Cody, it just fit his spunk and personality!
Cody came to us during a time of mending from a deep loss, but giving Cody a new beginning in his forever home has been healing.
Cody is playful and loving, and for a younger cat, the most mature gentleman who shows all the appreciation and contentment of his new home. He adapted quickly and easily into our families routine and into our hearts.
The Woodford Humane Society is a wonderful and caring organization. As a long time volunteer in my earlier years, I know the amount of time and effort that is involved with caring for so many animals. I have always been impressed with their compassion, their attention to details of each animals health and well-being, and the cleanliness of their adoption facility and those whom they care for each and every day. Their entire staff will always have my greatest respect for their efforts for our homeless animals, and for giving our community a Humane Society we can be very proud of.”
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Jake & Maggie’s Adoption Story, From Susan:
“I had always wanted a bonded feline pair. Over the years, my husband and I had adopted several cats from Woodford Humane so we knew exactly where to go. When we arrived, we were introduced to a handsome, sleek black male and an adorable tuxedo female with a little stumpy tail, curled up together in a cozy fluff pile. The staff said they tried to separate them, to no avail. After a quick meow-and-greet, we knew we had found our new family members.
Jake and Maggie, formerly Robert and Tabatha, are still snuggle buddies. Whether they are drinking from the sink faucet, batting toy mice across the floor or reminding us where their treats are kept, they are a constant source of joy. As an added bonus, they have taught their younger sister some much-needed manners. (A stray kitty found at a job site.)
We greatly appreciate Woodford Humane for taking such great care of Jake and Maggie until they found their forever home.”
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Sadie’s Adoption Story, From Sadie Herself! (By way of Sherry):
“Hi to my favorite gals at Woodford Humane! I should have done this sooner, but I’ve been having so much fun playing and shopping for sweaters I lost all track of time! You all knew me as Marion, but now that I’m in my furrever home – I go by Sadie! I wanted to thank you for taking such good care of me while I was staying at your place and introducing me to my new family. I’ve really settled into my new home and we’re having a blast together! Mom and Dad have been taking great care of me and we all love each other very much!! Thanks again for all you did for me…and keep up the good work!!
All my love,
Sadie B.
P.S. – Sherry and Bobby say hi too!”
From Woodford Humane:
Sadie was shy, scrawny, and very pregnant when she arrived in summer of 2024. She raised 7 beautiful, feisty puppies here, and found her own playful and confident side along the way. Now it’s her turn to get babied!
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Sophie’s Adoption Story, From Lisa and Daniel:
“After we had been without a dog for seven years, we turned to Woodford Humane Society. I remember exactly what I said when I saw Sophie for the first time… “You are not at all what I was expecting!” I knew “terrier” ahead of time, but really didn’t have this image in mind… Small. Cute. However, she wasn’t quite sure of what was going on…! That day brought a wonderful little girl into our lives.
She is intelligent. Bright-eyed. Observant… doesn’t miss a thing! She is our housemate. Our bed-buddy. Our travel companion. She is the sweetest girl on the face of the Earth. This, of course, being our completely unbiased opinion!! We are so very thankful to Woodford Humane for her. They have been doing wonderful deeds for animals for 50 years… Here’s to fifty more!!! Thank you to the entire staff for all your hard work and dedication!!”
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Tigerman’s Adoption Story, From Helen:
[In 2004] “I had just given foster dog # 18 back to WHS to be adopted when I got a call from them to tell me about a brindle pit mix puppy that was in a bad situation and had been handed in with a broken front leg, and as it turned out they had to amputate his front leg. They asked me if I would pick him up from the clinic to rehab him at home (he was amputee # 3 I had fostered so they knew I would). When I got him home, I named him Tiger because of his beautiful stripes, he was so nervous and spent days under my kitchen table.
I spent countless hours under the kitchen table with him along with my own dog Stiffler. It took days, but Stiffler and I coaxed him out further each day. We took walks on the farm and when he got tired, I put him over my shoulders and carried him home. Stiffler really looked out for him, watched over him and stuck with him so he was never alone or nervous. His true personality started to show through, he was just a dude with the biggest smile and best temperament. I started calling him Tigerman because he was such a cool dog.
After 6 months in foster care, I called WHS and said he was ready for adoption, they asked me to drop him back in, but I couldn’t. I just couldn’t, he was my boy, I had spent so much time rehabbing him, I couldn’t let Stiffler’s best friend go. I went in the following weekend and signed the paperwork, Foster dog # 19 ended up being Adopted dog # 1. I loved him for 14 years; he had a wonderful life on the farm with his brother Stiffler.
In 2018 Stiffler died from old age at home at the fantastic age of 17 and 2 months later TIgerman died at the age of 14. I think he missed his big brother. He died on his bed in front of the fireplace at home. He was such a resilient and happy dog even after his bad start in life but in the end, he lived a life other dogs would be jealous of. It’s very difficult to put his story into 3 paragraphs, he filled my heart with love, joy, and everything in between. A girl’s best friend forever.”
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Micah and Lucie’s Adoption Story, From Mary:
“Happy 50th Anniversary to Woodford Humane Society!
My Husband Bill and I are proud “parents” of two adoptees from WHS! Nearly three years ago we were looking for a middle-aged female indoor cat, whose life span might be a good match for us, as retired folks. Instead, we fell in love with our Micah! He was thought to be perhaps 3 years old, and had an enormous striped tail! As it turned out, he was very likely less than a year old and he grew into that tail! He is playful and makes questionable decisions, but we love him!
A year later we adopted 5 year old Lucie, a 22 pound Shih Tzu/Toy Poodle mix who had been surrendered and needed a lot of restorative care. Woodford Humane Society and Dr. Wells at Eckert Veterinary Hospital got her in the best shape possible, and released a little princess! She rules the household, plays with Micah when she feels like it, and loves the sound of her amazingly loud voice! We love her, too!
Congratulations to Woodford Humane Society who make stories like Micah’s and Lucie’s possible through their dedication to caring for animals who need a family, and then finding them the best possible home. Great work!!”
From Woodford Humane:
Lucie was in terrible shape when she arrived, and her “before” photo shows – one of many serious neglect cases that have become sadly common. She has not just survived but THRIVED in her forever home! As for Micah, well…we’re usually pretty good at determining things like age and breed, but life still throws in some surprises!
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Bennett’s Adoption Story, From Jerry and Mindy:
“On the day that we met Bennett, she came across as a shy little puppy with big eyes and a carefree spirit that seemed to take in the world around her with a gentleness that was outmatched only by her enthusiasm for life. From that day forward, Bennett has brought endless joy and comfort into our lives every day, her wagging tail always ready to greet us at the door after a long day, or even if we just stepped outside for only a couple of minutes.
We were introduced through the Woodford Humane Society, an organization that has been vital in giving animals like Bennett the best opportunity to find a loving home. The Woodford Humane Society’s dedication to rescuing and caring for animals provided us the opportunity to welcome Bennett into our family, and for that, we are incredibly grateful. She has become a constant companion, always by our side, whether going for a walk or just relaxing at home. Her playful energy and affectionate snuggles make everything brighter, and her presence reminds us daily of the importance of adopting and supporting shelters like Woodford Humane Society, whose staff work tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of animals in need. Whether it’s her quiet loyalty or the way she knows when we might be in need of a little extra love ourselves, Bennett’s love and happiness are precious to us. Our family is thankful for the incredible work of Woodford Humane Society and the relentless energy that they give, providing exceptional care to any and all animals that enter through their door.”
Donatello’s Adoption Story, From Kate:
“Most people meet the love of their lives on a date, or maybe in school. We met ours in a story in USA Today. It was about a dog who had lived in a Kentucky shelter for four years, without having been adopted. We were ready to adopt a dog and, even though the waiting list for the USA Today-famous Donatello was long, we submitted our application.
It was clear that everyone at Woodford loved Donatello and wanted the best home for him. We were delighted and honored when they chose us. Donatello himself charmed us immediately when we met him, and then knocked our socks off with what a good boy he is, ‘right out of the box’! We know his good manners and friendliness are down to Woodford, and the excellent care he got there!
We can’t imagine our lives without our sweet boy. Donatello fills our home with wags and snuggles and joy. People say he is lucky we found him, but really, we are lucky that he and Woodford chose us.”
From Woodford Humane:
Donatello going viral upon his 4th anniversary at WHS was a real roller coaster, but in the end everyone got exactly what they hoped for: Donatello got a wonderful home (on the east coast, no less), Kate and Craig got the handsomest, least-smelly boy, and we get to rest easy knowing he’s so deeply loved!
Mags and Gabby’s Adoption Story, From Paula:
“In the spring of 2019, I started volunteering at WHS. My 22 year old cat had recently passed, but I wasn’t ready for another one. Yet, I still wanted to be around animals and thought this was the perfect way.
The more I worked with the cats the more I thought about getting one, or maybe two! Since senior cats don’t get adopted as easy, I decided this was what I would look for. One day there was a small calico in the back of her condo. She was very shy, but gradually Mags became braver and let me pet her. Eventually I was able to play with her and I decided to bring her home.
When covid happened and WHS wasn’t open for volunteers, I decided to get another cat to keep Mags company. I followed the WHS cats available online. I saw a 13 year old tabbico with special medical needs named Gabby and made an appointment to adopt her.
Gabby was the opposite of Mags! She was the snuggly cat that was happy as long as she was getting attention. She had the prettiest emerald green eyes and a loud, quirky meow! I always knew where Gabby was in the house. Mags was really my husband’s cat. He had a lot of patience with her. After watching Gabby in my lap, Mags decided to be her Daddy’s lap cat! We never thought this would happen.
Mags and Gabby entertained my husband and me playing with their toys, which we loved. The Girls bring me comfort, joy, purpose, and companionship. This was never truer than when my husband passed away unexpectedly. They would both end up in my lap together.
Gabby recently passed away and Mags has taken over my lap and even started meowing. I guess she is reminding me of Gabby. Mags is perfectly happy being an only 4-paw child again.
I really enjoy my volunteer time at WHS. Not only is it a joy to work with the animals, but also with the dedicated staff. The entire staff works so hard to be sure that each animal that comes through the door receives the best possible care until they get their forever home.”
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Bodhie’s Adoption Story, From Steven:
“We, my wife and I, have been acquainted with Woodford Humane for years. We were thrilled about the prospect of adopting a dog, especially since we wanted our current dog to have a friend to share space and time with.
Elf (as he was then called) had a concern with men, so we gave him plenty of high value treats as we spent time with him. I came back the next day, Saturday, and spent time with him in the lobby offering high value treats for close to an hour. Again, I said goodbye and departed. I came back in the afternoon on the next day, Sunday, and was ready to commit.
What a joy! Sweet. Patient. Loving. Handsome. And a special aura about him; a kind of peace, so I named him Bodhisattva. Yes, he can be vocal throughout his daily life. Currently he has the adorable habit of lifting his paw a few inches to indicate he is ready for something – a treat or perhaps dinner. He loves squeaking toys and can entertain himself bringing humor, love, and amazement. He also likes to run and play with his brother and other pooches at daycare.
You don’t have to look far to realize, appreciate, learn from, or discover the benefits of a canine. I feel calmer while Bodhie is near and we offer a gentle pat. He is also known to come toward one of us when we are having a rough moment providing comfort. Then we have the snuggling. Bodhie loves being close to a human, either my wife or I. The snuggling could go on for hours; not a casual stop.”
From Woodford Humane:
Bodhie came to use from a life outdoors in frigid weather at the end of a heavy chain. His “concern with men,” as Steven gently puts it, was warranted. Steven and Bodhie are proof that patience, persistence, and love can conquer a lot!
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Greta’s Adoption Story, From Linder:
“In August of 2012, I began walking dogs as a volunteer at WHS. In late September, I entered the lobby and headed down the hall to find my ‘pal’ for the day. There in one of the rooms was a new inductee to the WHS Hall of Care. She was sitting calmly next to her suite mate. My heart melted as I took in the beauty of her jet-black fur and the large, soulful eyes that looked directly into mind. Her profile indicated that she was 2 years old, about 40 lbs, and a lab/shepherd mix. Perfect!
We walked until late November when the guy who was to become her doggy dad agreed it was time to adopt. He’d been introduced to her a time or two, but on this day she jumped into the back of the station wagon, ran straight to the front, and gave him doggy kisses.
Greta bounced through the front door and became the ultimate companion immediately. She was smart, sensitive, attuned to her people, knew what she wanted – or did not want – and thought every gift bag she saw had something in it for her. Greta loved trips for ice cream, people food from doggy dad, and her walks. She took a different path through the neighborhood every day, as the person behind the leash followed along. At the end of each journey she always found her way home. For 12 years, Greta was loved and gave even more love to many. She took her last journey with love and peace.”
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Ziggy’s Adoption Story, From Kay and Jim:
“Our Vizsla Ziggy was found loose and hungry, walking in the backwoods of Versailles by Animal Control. Another Woodford Humane supporter, Mary Ann Zeigenfuse, fostered him before we adopted (that’s how he got his name, Ziggy). We could not believe our good fortune when we met him. He was a handsome one year old, gentle and a leader with his new Vizsla pack, Hedy and Gouda.
Ziggy is 14 now and a cancer survivor with three mast cell tumor surgeries and the unpleasant meds which go with them. Dr. Michelle Jude has kept him going when we thought he was on his way to the Rainbow Bridge. Ziggy is a true Velcro V, often following one of us around the house. He always naps nearby, one eye open even when snoring.
Ziggy leads the girls (also V rescues — Sorda and Juno) on their walks with Critter Sitters. He can run very fast when he realizes his food bowl is ready. He enjoys stepping on the pedal which operates the big waste can, preferring takeout containers and whatever is left in them. He can push open the door to the dining room and make his way to the new couch for naps at night — not allowed. All in all, a brilliant boy.
Ziggy is a happy Vizsla and a joy to have with us. He has many friends in the neighborhood, all admiring his sugar face. We are so grateful to Woodford Humane for allowing us to adopt him. We marvel at the wonderful, difficult, sometimes thankless work Katie and the Woodford Humane staff do. Woodford has made our lives fuller and we know it has done the same for many. Let us all support Woodford as we can.”