Photo of Logan and Amy's reunion last week, courtesy of The Humane Society of Sarasota County

When a two-year-old Shepherd mix went missing from her Sarasota home last year--not yet microchipped from the vet--her owner frantically searched everywhere for her to no avail. Luckily, the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office Animal Services found her in the streets and brought her safely to the Humane Society of Sarasota County (HSSC). With no ID, the happy-go-lucky Shepherd mix was named Amy, and spent nearly two months with the animal adoption center in the heat of the coronavirus spread. Then, a man called HSSC saying Amy was his dog he had been looking for since last year. "When Logan messaged HSSC saying he thought the dog we were calling Amy was actually his dog, Jamie, we arranged a meet and greet," said HSSC's Senior Director of Philanthropy, Autumn Steiner. "Sure enough, Amy ran right into Logan’s arms, reunited at last. We were thrilled to bring them back together." Amy's (or Jaime's) overexcited reaction--seen here in this adorable video HSSC captured--said it all when she saw her owner again. Logan expressed his gratitude to the local organization who took great care of her while away from her family and home, especially during such an unprecedented time.  

HSSC has recently reopened to the public again for normal adoption hours--with only 10 people allowed in the facility at a time, operating with social distancing, strongly recommending visitors wear masks, and maintaining rigorous sanitizing protocols. HSSC has even been taking in animals from other shelters to care for and help find permanent homes for in the community. "We have been overwhelmed (in a good way!) by foster applications," HSSC said. "We have more applicants than we have animals in need of foster, but that can change quickly." HSSC is also working to reopen its volunteer program by the beginning of June and to resume K-9 Obedience Training Course in mid-June.

If all this time spent quarantining at home without a pet has made you realize your desire for a furry companion, you can view the real-time list of available cats and dogs here. Please call 941-955-4131 to make an appointment to visit or adopt. 

And if you want to read more about heartwarming animal rescues and adoptions, stay tuned for a special SRQ PETS WE LOVE feature in the coming May/June issue of SRQ Magazine. 

Photo of Logan and Amy's reunion last week, courtesy of The Humane Society of Sarasota County