About jake

Meet Jake! This adorable, scruffy boy is safe today because someone refused to look away.

Jake had been living outdoors with only a small plastic doghouse and dirty blankets for shelter. A Good Samaritan noticed his situation during her morning commute and reached out for help as winter weather approached. When a volunteer visited, she found a filthy pen with no fresh food or water, and empty Styrofoam containers scattered around.

Despite offers to provide supplies so he could come indoors during freezing temperatures, his owners declined, saying he had always lived outside.

With an ice storm on the way, his now foster mom, Bethany, and her husband stepped in. They returned, advocated for him, and ultimately secured his freedom.

Thanks to their persistence, Jake is now safe, warm, and thriving in his foster home. He’s already seen the vet and, incredibly, is heartworm negative!

Jake’s foster mom, Bethany, is a budding trainer who is close to completing a two-year training program, so she’s able to share both a foster and trainer’s perspective.

THE BASICS

Breed: Terrier Mix - likely Norwich Terrier mix

Age: Approximately 6–7 years (but don’t tell him that!)

Weight: 22 lbs

Coat: Low shed - has been professionally groomed and did well

Other: Happy-go-lucky, social pup who loves to play and is good with other dogs

PERSONALITY

Jake is a happy, confident, people-loving little dog whose whole body seems to say “hello!” wherever he goes.

Despite his past, you’d never guess he spent time living outside. He greets everyone he meets - neighbors, visitors, kids, and strangers, with joyful enthusiasm. His foster family describes him as “jaunty,” because he carries himself with such cheerful confidence.

He’s incredibly social and loves being part of whatever his people are doing—whether that’s yard work, working at the computer, or heading out for an adventure.

Jake is active and playful, with the energy of a much younger dog. He enjoys walks, playtime, and even playing fetch, but he’s also happy to settle nearby with a chew or toy when things slow down. He occasionally thinks he’s a lap dog.

DOGS, KIDS & CATS