This article was featured in WYDaily on 12/29/23.

What is the best type of “crash” to have? According to The Heritage Humane Society, a lovable canine companion with a heart of gold named Crash. Surrendered to The Heritage Humane Society on Aug, 25 alongside his companion Smash, Crash has spent 117 days under the shelter’s care, witnessing 290 dogs find their forever homes before him.

Holding onto his holiday wish

Crash and his companion Smash arrived at the shelter through no fault of their own. Sadly, their owner could no longer care for them. Despite his initial shyness, Crash’s endearing qualities shine through, especially his favorite party trick – the “Crash hug.” With toffee-colored eyes, a giant grin and a heart as big as his hugs, Crash is a love bug who is still hoping for a biggest holiday wish to come true – to find his perfect match.

Crash’s journey from a timid pup to a playful and sweet companion has been remarkable. He may take a moment to warm up to new faces, a highly relatable trait for even people. Volunteers have seen him blossom into a loving and loyal friend. His charming personality comes to life once he establishes a bond, offering an abundance of affection and unwavering loyalty.

During his time at The Heritage Humane Society, Crash has been on numerous Fido Field Trips and offsite events, capturing the hearts of volunteers and attendees alike. This dapper dog likes to get out and about having visited local breweries, New Town, Waller Mill Park, Freedom Park, Nautical Dog, NekoCon at the Hampton Roads Convention Center, Paws in the Air, the Holiday Bazaar, and many other places. Crash has proven to be a well-behaved and adaptable companion, ready to explore the world with his forever family.

Meet Crash’s biggest cheerleaders

“Have you ever had an automatic reaction to an animal? The one I felt with Crash was pure joy,” shares his foster mom, Cathy Wildman. The retired Williamsburg resident volunteers at the shelter every Friday and Saturday to walk and socialize with the dogs. She describes him as “the happiest pup” who is “so attractive that people are drawn to him wherever we go.” Wildman recounts Crash’s impressive behavior during Fido Field Trips, emphasizing his friendliness, patience and intelligence.

Wildman shares that Crash is so friendly and accommodating to children as they pet him. “He seems to even smile!”  He is not dog-reactive, which is also an asset. Wildman adds, “The first time I took him on a field trip, he would not get in my car. I guess he had never been in one before and he seemed leery. After getting some assistance, I managed to get him in and he just sat there as still as could be. I wondered how to get him back in after, but he was more than eager to hop in when we left. Since then, there has never been any issue. He is a great car rider and will sit up and look out the window.”

Crash is smart and alert, and will look at whomever is speaking to him. Wildman says Crash has a very interesting way to “sit.” He will back up three steps (always three steps) and then sit. He is patient and does not grab food. She adds that “When I sit down, he will climb up and it seems he is trying to get in my lap. He will give kisses and wait to be petted. He loves to have his head and ears rubbed!”

Volunteers, including Kenley Lunsford, a William and Mary student, describe Crash as a “good boy” who is “very sweet and will make a great companion and best friend.” Hannah Dow, another volunteer, highlights Crash’s physical attributes, noting his “orangey-almond coat” and “eyes with a golden tint” that reflect his “heart of gold.”

As Crash continues to charm everyone he meets, The Heritage Humane Society encourages potential adopters to consider making room in their hearts and homes for this affectionate canine companion.

Still time for limited time holiday adoption savings

To encourage more adoptions during the holiday season, The Heritage Humane Society is running a special holiday adoption promotion through Dec. 31. 2023. All adult pets aged 10 months and older are now available with 25% off their adoption fee.

Other ways to spread holiday cheer throughout the year

For those unable to adopt permanently, The Heritage Humane Society offers alternative ways to make a difference right away. Consider fostering a pet for the holidays and in the new year. Additionally, volunteering, making an end-of-year donation to help pets like Crash, and stocking up on pet supplies and shelter swag for people at its ReTAIL Store are all ways to support The Heritage Humane Society’s mission within the local community.

Open up a kennel and open up a fur-ever heart this festive season

The Heritage Humane Society has many homeless pets ready to open their hearts to a forever family this holiday season. Nearly 160 dogs, cats and small pets are currently in their care.

Adoptable pets are available to meet during The Heritage Humane Society’s visiting and adopting hours from 12 to 4:30 p.m., Tues. through Sun.

To learn more, visit HeritageHumane.org, call 757-221-0150, or visit The Heritage Humane Society located at 430 Waller Mill Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23185.

---

Sponsored content by

Be Kind to them All – Love them All – Save them All.