TOMASITA

Female | 1 year old | 19 pounds | Medium energy | Good second dog | Coexists with a cat | Hasn’t met kids | From Costa Rica | Fostered in Toronto | Shy & sweet | Building confidence

Today we have the pleasure of introducing you to TOMASITA who recently made the move from Costa Rica to Toronto, where she’s now being fostered. A shy scruff, TOMASITA is naturally curious yet is taking her time building up confidence and resilience when it comes to encountering new situations. Trust goes a long way with this one, and taking the time to build a solid foundation with her is what will help her become her bravest self.

She currently does well coexisting with a cat in the home, and while she’s yet to meet kids, she might benefit from living and/or meeting another calm, confident dog. Why? To show her the ropes, of course, and making a new friend would likely be fun for her. We know that in her previous foster home, this scruff enjoyed running and playing with other dogs she lived with. So, with time, we’re sure she’ll warm up and show off her naturally curious personality here too. Lately, TOMASITA has been starting to show an interest in toys, which is also something we love to see!

From what we know so far, this scruff would likely do well in a quieter home and living with humans that are home more often than not. She also happens to love a cuddle, which is a big plus if you ask us! Think she might be a nice match for you? Apply to adopt today.

KIKI - APP IN PROCESS

Female | 8 months old | 11 lbs | Puppy energy | Good with dogs | Not cat or kid tested | From Costa Rica | Fostered in Toronto (Midtown) | Cuddly & playful

Not so long ago, KIKI was soaking up the sun in Costa Rica. Now? She’s questioning all of her life choices as she braves the Canadian snowstorms. This sweet, snuggly pup is convinced that walks are optional in this weather and will happily let you know when she’s ready to turn back inside (which is immediately after potty time).

But don’t let her current dislike of the cold fool you—KIKI is full of love, playfulness, and all the cuddles you could ask for. She adores her humans, is super food-motivated, and is already showing off her great listening skills (for a puppy!). She’s got crate training down, is almost there with house training (a couple of oops moments, but she’s learning!), and is working on her leash manners. She gets excited to meet other dogs on walks and may try to pull toward them, but with consistency, she’ll improve.

KIKI plays well with other dogs but has some food-related boundaries that adopters should be mindful of if she’s joining a home with another pup. She and her foster sibling have had a few post-meal disagreements, so managing mealtime and the moments after—such as feeding separately and giving them a bit of space before reuniting—will help set everyone up for success.

While she hasn’t met kids yet, Kiki is a gentle, affectionate girl who would likely do well with proper introductions. KIKI’S ideal day? Playtime, snuggles, treats, and a cozy spot to nap—preferably on top of her favorite human.

If you’re looking for a loving, easygoing pup (who may need some extra motivation for winter walks), KIKI might just be the pup for you! 

VANNA

Female | 2.5 years old | 33 lbs | Medium energy | Can be selective with dogs | No cats please | Best with 16+ | From Mexico | Fostered in Sharon, ON | Looking for an adopter

Meet VANNA! This sweet, sensitive girl is currently living with a trainer, and making great progress in building confidence. She thrives with structure, routine, and clear guidance, and she’s looking for an experienced adopter to continue working with her.

VANNA is smart and eager to learn. She enjoys structured leash walks, hand-feeding, obedience training, and decompression time. She also loves fetch, hiking, and hanging out with her humans! She is crate-trained and fine being left alone for a workday with proper exercise.

While neutral around most dogs, Vanna can be reactive toward excitable or pushy dogs. A calm, confident dog may help her open up, but she should avoid on-leash greetings with unfamiliar dogs. She has a strong prey drive and is not suited for a home with cats.

VANNA is still nervous with new people and has territorial tendencies in the home. She needs slow introductions and an adopter willing to advocate for her and follow her training plan. Due to this, she would do best in an adult-only home (16+).

VANNA will be in training until early March, and will need an adopter after that time. Her trainer is open to informal meet & greets, complete with valuable tips on what works for VANNA. She needs a patient and committed person to help her continue building confidence and trust. If you're looking for a loyal, intelligent companion and are willing to continue her training, VANNA is ready to meet you!

CHAI - REVIEWING APPS

Female | 6 years old | 3.5 lbs | low energy | Chill dogs rule | Chill cats rule | Best with older kids | From Ontario | Fostered in Burlington

If Chai had a love language, it would definitely be quality time. She loves being curled up on your lap, enjoying pets, scratches, and peaceful naps. She thrives on being close to her human, and right now, as I write this, she’s inching closer to me, leaving her cozy spot on the heating blanket to lay closer, touching me.

Chai is expected to be about 6 years old, and she’s the epitome of a true Chihuahua. At just 3.5 lbs, she has a laid-back energy and loves being a companion. While she’ll occasionally explore around the house, sniffing for crumbs, she prefers to settle down on her bed or a warm blanket to watch everything around her. Her favourite spot? Anywhere she can see you, especially the kitchen—because food, of course! She’s fine for apartment living, with no need for a yard, especially in the winter. She’s happy to stay inside, going out only for potty breaks and quickly returning to warmth.

Chai currently lives with a medium-sized senior dog. The two coexist, respecting each other’s space, though Chai enjoys the company of him at times, she’s really a people dog. Once she senses your attention, she’s all in, snuggling up for affection. She’s never met a cat, but we think she'd do fine with a laid back dog-friendly one.

Chai does do a bit of shaking, which can be linked to her small size and sensitivity to cold. She may also shake when nervous, such as when a new person enters the home or loud noises are going on, but she’s a curious girl and warms up quickly once she feels safe. She’s drawn to both men and women, and while she hasn’t met kids yet, she may do well with older children who understand how fragile she is.

Chai is left alone at times currently. She either has access to a small room or is crated. She might claw at the door or pace before settling. The more coddled she is, the more difficult it may become to leave her alone. So something to consider!

Chai is a special girl who will be an excellent companion for the right family. If you feel she’s the one for you, apply to adopt her in the next 48hrs. She will be available to move to her furever home next week. Apply now!

PUPPIES

3 Male & 1 Female | Born January 17 | Puppy energy | From Norway House, Manitoba | Fostered in Winnipeg | Arriving to Toronto late March | All looking for adopters

*Adoptions Pending for PETUNIA, ASTER and CEDAR*

Puppies! Run, don’t walk, because we officially have 4 pups, each looking for their furever homes. The 3 males and 1 female are currently living in Winnipeg and are making the journey to Toronto in late March. TBD on their exact date of arrival, so for any potential adopters, keep in mind you’ll need to be flexible when it comes to your availability. 

CEDAR (male), HEATH (male), PETUNIA (female), and ASTER (male) are a month old and very busy growing. They’ll be a little over 2 months old when they arrive, and we recommend looking up northern breeds for more insights and being prepared for obedience classes once they are old enough. 

As a pup, CEDAR’s presence most certainly isn’t towering, yet give it time, and this young scruff will grow almost as big and strong as those majestic evergreens. HEATH’s name suggests one who likes all things rugged and outdoorsy. Time will tell! As the female in this litter, PETUNIA is love in a puppy package. ASTER shines just as bright as a star, with his white fur coat and spotted eye.

As canine companions, each of these pups has the potential to both comfort you and liven up your everyday with their playful antics! Apply today. If you are open to any puppy, please state that in your application.

*Last photo is of mom, who is a medium-large-sized scruffy mix.

MILLIE - APP IN PROCESS

Female | 4 months old | 28 pounds & growing! | Puppy energy | Eager to accept attention from kids | Currently lives with a dog | Coexists with a cat | From Manitoba | Fostered in Pickering | Sweet & loves to play | Eager to learn

Practically perfect in every way—no, it's not Mary Poppins, it's MILLIE!

Always down for a good time, MILLIE is a 4-month-old Shepherd Mix who’s full of energy and has a ton of love to give! She's the perfect puppy companion for an active family who enjoys playtime and adventures. Queen of tug, master of fetch, and always ready to learn a new game, MILLIE is a fun-loving ball of JOY!

MILLIE has met kids, lives with a dog and a cat, and has had great experiences with all of the above. She enjoys playing with people and dogs though is also content to entertain herself with a squeaky toy, frozen enrichment, or tasty bully stick. She thrives with direction and guidance, and with a strong leader to show her what's expected, she's sure to become her best self. She sometimes thinks that she should be in charge, but that’s you and you just need to remind her of this by enforcing boundaries.

This clever girl is a quick study—she’s already mastered house training and is doing fantastic with crate training. Like any typical puppy, MILLIE can get jumpy and mouthy when excited. With guidance, she’s quick to settle down and refocus. Plus, she's highly food motivated, making training that much easier! MILLIE will continue to work on her leash walking skills and vocal tendencies and is eager to improve with continued practice. She’s also slowly learning how to chill so it won’t always be go go go!

Are you ready to welcome this sweet, playful girl into your home? MILLIE is waiting for her forever family to give her all the love and attention she deserves! Apply to adopt today.

BAGEL

Female | 10 years old | 62 pounds | Low energy | Coexists with a cat | Currently lives with a dog | Has met older kids | From Hamilton | Fostered in Hamilton |  Sweet & gentle | Loves belly rubs and napping

It’s about time we spilled the beans. Our newest adoptable is ready for her time to shine, and no, she’s not named after a legume. Rather, this gal is named after a doughnut’s cooler cousin, BAGEL. Naturally sweet and mighty in her love for her people, BAGEL has perfected the art of companionship.

She’s a loyal pooch and pairs particularly well with your morning coffee :) And just about any other chill activity for that matter. As a slower, overweight senior, walks with BAGEL are short and sweet. This is to be expected, and she’s looking for a home that’s going to enjoy spending time with her as she lives out her golden years. If you ask us, those are the best ones. House-trained and familiar with using a crate, the latter is a space she’s still working on settling in.

BAGEL is the kind of scruff who adores being around people, and if she could, she’d happily spend all day by your side. Other activities she enjoys include rolling in the snow and keeping warm and toasty by soaking up the sun any chance she gets. It’s the simple things in life!

BAGEL could do well with a calm, laid-back dog friend for some extra company throughout the day. Note that she is looking for a quieter home with minimal hustle and bustle where she’s not expected to take on strenuous activities. BAGEL accepts belly rubs from anyone, dog-savvy kids included! 

Apply to adopt BAGEL. She’ll be happy to share affection with you, which will kind of be like a carb-hug from the universe.

CAPUCHINA

Female | 6 years old | 39 lbs | Medium energy | Dog reactive | Not cat-tested, shows prey drive | Likely good with kids | From Mexico | Fostered in Toronto

Looking for a scruff with personality? CAPUCHINA is here to steal your heart! This 6-year-old fluffball is a certified pro at striking zen yoga moves, collecting belly rubs, and making her humans feel like the center of the universe. She absolutely loves people of all ages, and is always excited to make new human friends—expect lots of tail wags and happy greetings!

CAPUCHINA is a dream inside the home—fully house-trained, respectful of your space, and a big fan of her crate (it’s her cozy little retreat!). She’s not overly vocal and thrives on routine, enjoying a calm, structured home where she can relax and just be her sweet self. She’s got energy when it’s time for fun, but also loves a good nap—balance is key, after all!

Now, for real talk— CAPUCHINA has strong opinions about other dogs. And by strong, we mean she prefers they stay far, far away. She absolutely loves her walks, but when she sees another dog, she reacts with full enthusiasm (aka lunging and barking). She needs an adopter committed to working on her reactivity with structure, patience, clear guidance and consistency.

If you’re dog-savvy and ready to help CAPUCHINA be the best version of herself, she will reward you with endless love, hilarious quirks, and unwavering devotion. She’s looking for a home where she can be the queen of the castle (aka no other pets) and soak up all the attention she deserves.

Ready to welcome this perfect home companion into your life? Apply now— CAPUCHINA can’t wait to meet you!

LANCE - APP IN PROCESS

Male | 1 year old | 38 pounds | Medium energy | Has previously and currently lives with a dog | Has met older kids and was curious | Hasn’t met cats | From Mexico | Fostered in Pickering | Friendly, social & eager to learn | Cuddle monster

This sweet and quirky scruff goes by the name LANCE <3 Looking for a calm and loving family to call his own, this 1-year-old male is truly a gentle soul who adores belly rubs and ear scratches. Oh, and ALL the high-fives! Respectful of boundaries and space, LANCE is doing well living with his foster’s dog, though shows he’s indifferent to them overall.

A bit timid around loud noises and hardwood floors, who can blame him since they are, well, loud and, well, slippery! He’s been busy working on building his confidence and does well with guidance. Here’s the thing about LANCE. He’s a bit of a food enthusiast, and you could say we’re impressed. Of course, it comes with his quirky style; he needs a little coaxing to eat—he’ll inspect his food, take a bite, and then spit it out before finally devouring it all. Yum. It’s just his way of making sure the food’s up to snuff!

LANCE is still figuring out walks. Are they a little intimidating for him right now? Yeah a little. But, with some patience and encouragement, he’s making great progress. Lately, he’s been walking with an SOS alumni and learning quickly! A calm, patient home will be ideal for this scruff, where he can continue to grow and be the best version of himself. Structure that’s built into his schedule is also great, as it helps him understand what’s expected of him.

If you’re looking for a loving companion who just needs a little time to trust, LANCE could be your perfect match. Apply to adopt! FYI, his soulful gaze into your eyes will melt your heart!

MAPLE

Female | 2 years old | 35lbs | Medium Energy | Can be shy with other dogs | Dog-savvy cats may work | Best in an adult-only home or with older, dog-savvy kids | From Mexico | Fostered in Toronto | Curious & sweet

With a name like MAPLE, she was meant to find her home in Canada—and just like the syrup, she’s as sweet as can be! Initially shy, she has blossomed into a curious and observant pup whose adventurous nature makes every walk exciting.

She’s still adjusting to city life and thrives with patience, positive exposure, and a structured routine. Crate-trained and doing well in an apartment setting, MAPLE takes time to warm up to new people and can be a bit suspicious at first. Slow introductions and clear boundaries help her feel safe, and once she trusts you, she’s incredibly loyal and affectionate.

MAPLE has shown some controlling tendencies, staying very aware of movement around her space. However, with structure and training, she’s learning that she doesn’t need to be in charge. She would do best with an experienced adopter who can recognize her cues or someone committed to working with a trainer.

While selective with other animals, MAPLE may do well with a confident, dog-savvy cat or a well-matched canine companion. She hasn’t met children, but she’d be best suited to an adult-only home or one with older, respectful kids who understand her boundaries.

Her big, soulful eyes will melt your heart. With continued guidance and a loving, structured home, MAPLE will thrive. Ready for some sweet adventures? Apply to adopt MAPLE today!