Joker originally came to St. Tammany Humane Society along with 200 other dogs rescued from the flooded waters in Louisiana August of 2016. Since that time, he has watched each and every one of his flood-mates find their forever homes. Family after family has approach his kennel, but for some reason have always turned away. Our staff suspects it may be because Joker does not “show” well in his kennel, a common problem in shelters all across the country. Even though everyone at our rescue knows that's not the real Joker, first impressions are lasting impressions. Now after seven long months, Joker is left in his kennel, still searching.
I was recently given the opportunity to spend one-on-one time with Joker for an appearance at the Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton Conference that took place at the Roosevelt Hotel in New Orleans. The group volunteered their time to make dog and cat beds for our animals and wanted their employees to see what their hard work was going to. The car ride to New Orleans was 
the easiest I have ever experienced with a shelter pup. It was apparent Joker had never been in a car before. He never once jumped in the front seat (something my dog can’t get enough of) and had absolutely no interest in the windows. Furthermore, as soon as we got on the Causeway Bridge he was out! He slept like a baby the entire ride, sprawled out and completely satisfied, like he had never experienced something as soft as the backseat of a car!
When we arrived in New Orleans and made our way to the hotel you could tell the noisy city was a new situation for him. He was taking it all in stride, sniffing every corner and looking into every store doorway. Then came the big fancy Roosevelt Hotel and the large group of people that met him at the door. Joker did great! He was a little timid at first, but with the gentle pets of the employees, he warmed up and made friends with everyone in the room! My time with this sweet boy became very special and Joker truly impressed me throughout our mini voyage.
Because he was pulled from another rescue, we have no background on this guy. We don't know where he came from or what he's been through. What we do know is when we received Joker he was not neutered, he was suffering from a deadly disease called heartworms and was very thin, all clear signs of neglect.
Through it all, Joker still loves people. He immediately took to me, looking for me at all times and hugging me when he wasn’t sure of his surroundings. He is truly an amazing, compassionate dog who deserves a second chance.
Joker is very petite, three year old blue brindle mix. He has tan spots that peak through his coat and the cutest white markings on his head, nose and chest. He has a great demeanor and walks well on a leash. We are not sure how he will do with other pets, but we know he’s a sweet, lovable pup who deserves a great home! All this boy needs is a family that will take him for walks, show him lots of love and a provide him with a big, comfy backseat!
Please ADOPT, Please SHARE, Please DONATE!
If you would like to make Joker an addition to your family, fill out an application here. For more information about Joker, email adoption@northshorehumane.org.
As a no-kill shelter, Joker will stay with us and receive the best care until his forever home comes. If you are not able to adopt, please help by donating to our rescue today!