Standing by Riley

Riley's journey to find his new family took a bit longer than most.

He was rescued as a stray by our Humane Law Enforcement team and brought to our San Diego Campus for care. We aren't sure what Riley had been through, but he was clearly in distress. At first, he was so shy and fearful that we needed to wrap him in a towel just to examine him. He was reactive to people and struggled with being on a leash. He was also in pain from severe dental issues that had gone untreated for far too long.

But thanks to support from friends like you, this was just the beginning of Riley's story. Our medical team relieved his pain by removing several teeth, and we helped him prepare for success in a new home by enrolling him in our Behavior Center.

For five months, trainers and caregivers worked with Riley every day. They taught him to trust, to walk on a leash without fear, and to grow into the happy dog he was meant to be. It took time and patience, but we believed in Riley—and so did you.

Today, Riley has transformed into a different dog, and he's living with a new family that understands his needs. Thank you for giving animals like him the extra time—and the second chance—they deserve.

You can do more for animals like Riley by extending your support through a planned gift. To learn more, please contact Katie Chalmers at (619) 798-0498 or KChalmers@sdhumane.org.