Meet the residents of the dog shelter in Spain - Aprop Pego

After my first article about volunteering at the AproP dog shelter in southern Spain, I received many beautiful responses and questions about the specific dogs I had the opportunity to meet and walk. Each of them has a unique story, personality, and a big heart longing for love and a home. In the following lines, I will introduce you to some of them – perhaps they will inspire you to help or even to adopt.

Alma – strong mom with a gentle look

One of the first female dogs I had the opportunity to walk was Alma. Her story touched me deeply – in March, someone left her together with her puppies in an outdoor kennel at the shelter. Alma proved to be an amazing mother who lovingly cared for her little ones until they were ready to go out into the world. All the puppies have already found new homes, and now it is time for Alma to find her dream family.

Alma is a German Shepherd mix, approximately 2 to 3 years old (born around 2022). She instantly wins you over with her gentle look and strong soul hidden behind her kind eyes. The walk was calm, and Alma cooperated perfectly. She is suitable for a family with children and other dogs, and she will certainly bring a lot of joy to anyone who gives her a chance. If you are looking for a loyal companion, Alma is the one – you will fall in love with her as quickly as we did at the shelter!

If you would like to learn more about Alma or offer her a new home, contact the AproP shelter:
Phone: (+34) 611 08 5024 (Spanish), (+34) 711 02 6224 (English)
Email: apropego@gmail.com

Maya – friendly and curious lady

Another dog that left a lasting impression on me at the AproP shelter was Maya. Although I did not walk her, her friendly nature and interest in people were impossible to miss. Maya is an incredibly affectionate and curious female dog who happily lets strangers pet her. Her openness and trust suggest that she has probably never experienced mistreatment – which, unfortunately, is not a given in shelters.

Maya is a podenco, born on March 1, 2019, and she is truly a “kind-hearted universal” – she gets along well with children, other dogs, and even cats. She loves walks with volunteers and is ready to find her dream home, where she can share her joy and love every day.

If you would like to learn more about Maya or offer her a new home, do not hesitate to contact the AproP shelter:
Phone: (+34) 611 08 5024 (Spanish), (+34) 711 02 6224 (English)
Email: apropego@gmail.com

Daenerys – smiling lover of oranges

Among the dogs I had the opportunity to walk was also a female English Staffordshire Terrier named Daenerys. When I saw her for the first time, given her body type and breed, I was not sure if I could handle her. In the end, I had some really fun moments with her, because she has a truly unusual hobby – she loves oranges! It is almost unbelievable how skillfully she can climb an orange tree, bite off a ripe orange, and then chew it to enjoy the sweet pulp. Her enthusiasm for this citrus treat is unique and amused every volunteer.

Daenerys is a typical staffie with short legs and a big smile, who is finally enjoying better times after difficult months in the shelter. Besides her love for oranges, she also loves rolling in the grass, where she enjoys every ray of sunshine. She is very friendly with children, but she should be the only dog in the household and not live with cats. For adoption, a special PPP license is required. If you are looking for a cheerful and original companion, Daenerys is the one – she will certainly bring a lot of joy and unforgettable experiences to your life.

If you would like to learn more about Daenerys or offer her a new home, contact the AproP shelter:
Phone: (+34) 611 08 5024 (Spanish), (+34) 711 02 6224 (English)
Email: apropego@gmail.com

Further steps towards trust: The story of Ferran and Raul

When I arrived at the shelter in Valencia, my idea of dog walking was still naive – I imagined enthusiastic barking and greetings from every resident. The reality, however, was completely different. Among the dogs I walked were Fer1an and Raul – two beautiful but extremely shy dogs whose fear of people was striking.

Before we opened their kennel, Fer1an and Raul hid in the farthest corner behind a curtain. Their eyes were full of anxiety, their bodies tense, ready to flee. At the first attempt to make contact, they retreated even further. They did not bite or growl, but they did not allow themselves to be petted either. The touch of human hands was a source of fear, not comfort for them.

It was a shock for me. I had never seen more frightened dogs in my life. Their past was apparently full of pain and mistreatment, so trust could not be gained immediately. We had to take every step carefully and with great patience.

Small steps towards trust

Although Fer1an and Raul were extremely shy, we gradually got to know their personalities. Fer1an is a majestic dog whose appearance attracts attention. Raul, who has already spent four years in the shelter, is also very clever and has great potential to become a loyal friend. Both will one day be suitable for living with children, other dogs, and cats – they just need a chance and time to learn to trust.

Every day is a small victory

Although the road to trust is long and full of challenges, every day brings a small progress. Fer1an and Raul are learning that they do not have to be afraid, that people can be friends too. Seeing them slowly approach us and stop being afraid of our presence is an unmistakable feeling.

These dogs are proof that love and patience can change lives. All it takes is the will and the chance. If you would like to meet Ferran or Raul in person, contact the shelter:

Contact:
(+34) 611 08 5024 (ES)
(+34) 711 02 6224 (EN)
Email: apropego@gmail.com

Each of them is waiting for a home where they will finally have a chance for a happy life without fear. And I believe that such a place will soon come for them.

Lima: A story of fear slowly turning into hope

Among the dogs I walked at the shelter in Pego was also a young podenco named Lima. She is a stunningly beautiful girl, but her gaze is full of caution and fear – just like many other dogs from podenco shelters. Lima is a typical example of the consequences of a past full of anxiety and mistreatment.

Lima is very afraid of people. On the walk, she was calm, but always kept a distance of at least two meters. If a person took a step closer, she immediately moved away. She is not aggressive, just afraid. Her eyes say it all – the touch of human hands is still unimaginable for her. It was shocking to see how traumatized she was.

Small progress and new friendships

Despite this, Lima is gradually getting used to her new life at the shelter. With other dogs, she behaves completely differently – she is lively, playful, and even a bit wild. With her canine friends, she shows her true nature. She feels safe with them and can be herself. It is a beautiful proof that even in the hardest times, she can find support and joy.

Fear of enclosed spaces

One of the biggest challenges for Lima is entering the kennel. Every day she struggles with her fear of enclosed spaces. She enters it only very slowly and with great fear. But it is gradually improving – she just needs time and space to make the decision herself.

Hope for the future

Lima is not yet ready for adoption, but her journey towards trust has already begun. The best for her would be a foster home with an experienced owner who will give her time and patience. Because even though Lima is still full of fear, there is a lot of love in her heart, just waiting to blossom.

If you would like to get to know Lima and maybe help her on her way to a happier life, contact the shelter:

Contact:
(+34) 611 08 5024 (ES)
(+34) 711 02 6224 (EN)
Email: apropego@gmail.com

Each of these dogs is proof that even the deepest wounds can heal. All it takes is the will and the chance.

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