Livingston, Mont. – One year after rescuing a pack of 26 Alaskan huskies from a property sale in Paradise Valley, Stafford Animal Shelter is focusing on finding permanent families for the six dogs still awaiting adoption.
Rescue and rehabilitation
Executive Director Alicia Davis explained that the shelter typically cares for about 1,200 animals annually, but the sudden arrival of 26 huskies presented an unprecedented challenge. The dogs had been tethered outdoors with little socialization, leaving them terrified of basic activities such as leash walking and gentle petting.
Rather than turn the dogs away, the shelter created individualized behavioral plans for each animal, emphasizing training and socialization. Over the past twelve months, that effort has yielded measurable results.
Adoption successes
Twenty of the original twenty‑six huskies have now found permanent homes. New owners report that dogs such as Holly, Ponderosa, Nala and Hickory are thriving, enjoying hikes, off‑leash play and strong bonds with their families. Development and Outreach Coordinator Hannah Pauli shared photos and stories from adopters, noting the joy families feel when their new companions settle in.
Remaining dogs need families
Six huskies—Aspen, Willow, Douglas, Anise, Cedar and Laurel—remain at the shelter. Pauli emphasized that these dogs had the hardest start, but that patience and continued training make them especially rewarding companions. “They deserve everything every dog should have,” she said.
Potential adopters are encouraged to consider how each husky’s temperament and needs might fit their household. The shelter stresses that a good match benefits both the family and the animal, fostering a lasting bond.
Ways to help beyond adoption
For community members unable to adopt, the shelter offers fostering opportunities and a new fundraising campaign. Donors contributing $100 or more receive a limited‑edition sweatshirt bearing the motto “Go all in on love,” designed to inspire support for the remaining dogs.
All proceeds from the campaign go directly to care, training and veterinary expenses for the huskies awaiting homes.
How to get involved
Anyone interested in adopting, fostering, or donating can contact Stafford Animal Shelter via their website staffordanimalshelter.org or call the shelter during regular business hours. The shelter remains committed to rescuing stray animals, providing care, and reuniting them with loving families throughout the Livingston community.
Original reporting: KTVQ Q2 Billings (local) — read the source article.