Hazel’s story-

Hazel was deeply loved and raised for 18 months by a young woman here in Durham. She is attempting to complete her college education at a local university. Unfortunately, her housing situation would no longer allow her to keep Hazel with her. Heartbroken, frightened, and confused she reached out to APS of Durham for help. She chose to surrender Hazel to our care. I met Hazel in her kennel as soon as she came to the adoption floor and it was love at first site for both of us. She was/is the most affectionate and empathic dog I have ever met. I had recently lost my 14 year old pit-mix, and some how Hazel knew. I took her home for a week-end foster and knew I had to make her mine. She had to return to the shelter for her spay surgery, and taking her back to her kennel was one of the most difficult things I’ve ever had to do. Well, she healed and I took her home on 12/15/21 and learned just how intelligent she is. She new all the basic manners a dog should know, she was house trained, and did I mention empathic? She has grounded me on multiple occasions from nightmares/panic due to first responder PTSD. She herself suffers from Separation Anxiety and struggles to be left home alone. She has a wonderful SA Pro Trainer that helps us overcome her struggles. Hazel gets to visit her original dog mom any time she wants and it’s a joy to see them reunite. I’m sure this dog rescued me, as much, or more than I rescued her. I challenge my family, friends, first responder colleagues, Emergency nurses, etc…to donate anything you can. Any amount helps. Start A Story. Adopt…