First Rescue Dog Adopted From Old Dominion Humane Society 12 Years Ago Still Thriving In Forever Home

Old Dominion Humane Society (ODHS) has come a long way since Chrissy Blake, ODHS founder, opened its doors to find forever homes for rescue dogs. Every rescue that’s paired with the perfect family is a step toward providing them with the life they deserve—and, for many of them in dire situations, a chance to finally trust humans. ODHS is celebrating Sophie, the first-ever rescue dog adopted from its organization about a dozen years ago. Sophie has lived happily all these years since she was adopted and has overcome her harsh years as a puppy.

Joyce Kleff, of Beaverdam, Va., enjoys a relaxing afternoon with Lily (left) and Sophie, the first rescue dog adopted from Old Dominion Humane Society (ODHS) in 2013. When Sophie was rescued from living in a shed, her fur was badly matted and in need of grooming. Kleff gladly adopted and cared for her, spoiling Sophie with daily chicken jerky treats.

Sophie’s case was a sad one, as she was originally rescued by ODHS from living her young years in a stark shed. Through the seasons, she weathered storms, the freezing temperatures and oppressive heat. The scared dog was neglected to the point that her fur was matted, and it was so bad she even had a lollipop embedded in it.

“Sophie was originally named Ninja before my grandmother, Joyce Kleff, adopted her,” said Alyssa Perry. “We saw Sophie’s picture, and her eyes were so soft and loving. She was about the same size and age as my grandmother’s other dog, Roxie. We just had this feeling she’d be a really good fit and companion for my grandmother and Roxie.”

Kleff and Sophie live in Beaverdam, Va., and the rescue has been a loyal companion. When Roxie passed away, Kleff adopted another dog named Lily. Sophie, being the sweet and good-natured dog she is, welcomed the new dog into the family immediately.

“I’d known Chrissy (Blake) since we went to elementary school together, and I was aware of the work she was doing to help dogs in our local area,” said Perry. “I knew Sophie would be a great dog for my grandmother, because I trusted Chrissy and knew she’d ensure that the adoption process went smoothly.”

Perry said Sophie is healthy and a great match for Kleff. All these years later, Kleff is still smitten with Sophie and enjoys sitting in her recliner watching movies and snuggling with her. A match made in heaven, the four-legged friend sleeps in bed with Kleff each night and is a Velcro dog—she sticks like glue to Kleff’s side.

Sophie loves everyone she meets and has lived a wonderful life since being adopted 12 years ago. From the caring volunteers at ODHS to the loving heart of Kleff, Sophie has received regular grooming and any and all veterinary care she’s ever needed.

“Sophie’s spoiled and even has my grandmother trained that every day around lunchtime she gets two chicken jerky snacks,” said Perry. “Sophie waits by the pantry to get her treats.”

While Sophie holds the title of being the first rescue adopted from ODHS in 2013, the organization has found homes for more than 7,000 dogs since then. Blake continues to dedicate her life to rescuing dogs in many situations, including mistreatment and neglect, owner surrenders, those with disabilities (deaf, blind, leg amputation) and others from high-kill shelters. The nonprofit organization is a no-kill rescue entirely run by volunteers, and it cares for and houses the canines while helping to find perfectly matched homes for them.