06/04/2026
π£π£ PLEASE SHARE! WE NEED YOUR HELP! π£π£
Harlow is in need of expirienced placement.
ππ» PLEASE take TWO MINUTES to read this big guy's story! ππ»
This big lug is a 120 pound Saint Bernard/Great Pyrenees mix. (Yeah, we know. What a mix. π« )
Several weeks ago, we were alerted that Harlow was found running at large in Clarke County one rainy weekend. He was scared. He was soaked. He was dirty. He didn't understand where he was, or how he ended up in a strange place.
His owner was contacted by that shelter via his microchip, and he was temporarily reunited with his family here in Morgan County. We were also in contact with Clarke County, who expressed concerns about his family needing to urgently place the dog.
We touched base with his owner again. They explained they were having major issues between Harlow and their younger unaltered male dog.
Unfortunately the issues were escalating, and it became unmanageable for them to safely keep both dogs. They needed to place Harlow immediately.
Without anywhere else to go, Harlow was surrendered.
It wasn't ideal. Owner surrenders to municipal shelters hardly ever are. But XXL dog breeds do NOT do well in cramped shelter settings. Left with no alternative, Harlow has made a temporary home here.
πΎ Harlow has been nothing but a gentleman since he's been in our care! πΎ
He's spent lots of time with us in the office. Has enjoyed walks around the campus. He's been very patient while we brushed out copious amounts of matted fur. He's kept us company on early mornings and late nights. Overall he's been a steadfast, unwavering, presence.
However, we were informed that Harlow has been apprehensive and defensive of strangers in high stress situations in his previous home. Not a behavior that we have noticed since he's been in our care.
We thought we had placement for this big boy, but his prospective home is several hours away, across multiple states. Logistically, its not going to work. There's just too many variables sending an XXL gaurdian-breed on a road trip across several states to meet with a stranger, in a strange place, with a strange dog. We want to ensure our dogs and adopters are set up for success. Since Harlow has allegedly reacted negatively in high stress situations in the past, we need an adopter or rescue that will come meet him at our facility where is is comfortable.
We have held onto Harlow so we could continue to assess him, and try to figure out logistics. But now we are seeking alternative placement, and fast.
We have networked with rescues. Sent info to all our "big dog" contacts. Unfortunately we've heard nothing but crickets.
ππ» We really love this boy, but here's the harsh reality of animal sheltering across the United States: there are not enough homes for all of the animals in need of homes.
We understand the appeal of a big, fluffy, puppy. But big, fluffy, puppies turn into big, fluffy, dogs. Dogs like Harlow that have been in multiple homes. Dogs like Harlow that end up in cramped shelters. Dogs like Harlow that might not get "their forever".
Harlow needs a home expirienced with XXL dogs, particularly gaurdian-breed dogs. He deserves a family that will put in the work, and make things work for him.
He is hit or miss with other dogs, which is not uncommon for his breed mix. He has never been around children or cats. Pyrenees are naturally aloof, but aside from some initial anxiety from being in a new place, Harlow has been very personable toward our staff.
At 4 years old, if Harlow makes it out of the shelter, this boy doesn't have it in him to be constantly shuffled from home to home.
We know Harlow is a hard placement, due to his size, breed, and potential breed quirks, but that doesn't make him any less deserving.
We are begging for a miracle for Harlow. We have worked hard to keep Harlow safe and comfortable. He was already listed "at-risk" once. He will not get lucky a second time.
Please help us help Harlow.
π§ [email protected]
π§ [email protected]
π 304-258-6363
