When Thistle was left behind at our gate in July, he had no idea where he would end up. He wasn't even a year old yet and was already being forced to start over. His happy-go-lucky attitude never diminished, though. While he was at PAWS Atlanta, we brought him along for several Puppy Therapy sessions, and he was the superstar of each one. We knew he would find a loving home soon, and we're elated by how much his new family is already in love with him. (And we don't blame them.) Check out this sweet interview with his new mom!

Why did you decide to adopt Thistle?

We decided to adopt Thistle because we felt our other dog, Sally, who is also a PAWS Atlanta alum, needed a play pal and dog companion. Our beloved boxer, Cora, passed away in May, and Cora and Sally were best friends. They played all the time before Cora became sick. Sally is still young at around five years old and our other dog, a Maltese, Finley, is almost 12 and NOT interested in playing, so we wanted a suitable companion for Sally. We also felt that we currently have the space, time, and love to give another dog a wonderful home! 

I started looking on the PAWS Atlanta website about a month or so prior to adopting Thistle, checking out various dogs. I actually put in an application for another dog, but when the adoption team asked about my requirements, they suggested Thistle. I feel really bad I’d passed him over a few times because he ended up being the perfect dog for us and I could have missed him! (Shouout to Michele!)

How is Thistle doing now?

Thistle is thriving! He truly is one of the sweetest dogs! Whenever a new dog enters the pack, it’s typical for a bit of disruption in the lives of both the dogs and humans, but that hasn’t happened with Thistle. He settled in right away! He and Sally play great together. When we’re active during the day, he’s active, too. When we want to be calm at night, he snuggles in on the couch with us. All of our dogs have always slept in our bed and from the first night he’s slept right through till morning. He’s also had no house accidents—a blessing! 

What kind of activities does Thistle enjoy?

So far, Thistle loves playing outside in the garden and going for walks at our local park. He’s wonderful on leash and in the car, too. He also loves playing with all his new toys. 

How does Thistle show his love?

Thistle is a super sweet, affectionate dog. He’s always sitting beside us either at our feet or pressed up against us on the couch. In addition to our eight-month-old son, we have a two-year-old niece who is at our house almost daily. Thistle is a star with both of them. He gives them kisses on the feet (and our niece's face) and they laugh! 

What do you love the most about Thistle?

Thistle is pure love. He is a happy little guy! I don’t know much about his history, other than he was surrendered in July and he spent a few months at PAWS Atlanta Whatever happened in his previous life, it doesn’t seem to have affected his demeanor at all. My biggest concern was ensuring we would get a dog that is fabulous around kids and would get along with Sally and Finley. Thistle knocks all of our requirements out of the park! Well, he does love to steal and chew our baby’s spoons, but I think we can work with that.

If you want to find the perfect fit for your family, fill out an adoption application for a cat or a dog today! Our adoption counselors will help you find the Thistle to your Sally.