When you wish upon a Star

If you are one of the billions who has ever been overcome by the sight of stars, then you know just how we felt the first time we saw this twinkling beauty. Nearly one year ago, Star arrived after hours at our Leslie A. Malone Center on Quebec Street. She was relinquished to the shelter in one of our night kennels, where she stayed dry from the rain and safe until morning. After meeting her, our team was struck at once by her sheer sweetness and resiliency; despite everything she had been through, this gentle dog was more than open to finding love.

Still, it was clear she needed thoughtful care and attention to get back on her feet. In addition to the dense and filthy mats covering her body, Star was markedly obese – a serious health concern that would require diet and activity modifications at the shelter and in her new home. And while the details of her life before were slim, our teams suspected there may have been gaps in the care she received. Accordingly, she would need our support to begin the process of rebuilding her confidence and trust.

Once examined and cleared by our Shelter Veterinary Services team, Star was sent to our in-house groomer for a transformative bath and full-body shave. While often underestimated, grooming has the power to significantly improve an animal’s health and happiness. In Star’s case, being free from the burden of unkempt fur relieved her discomfort and helped her be her true self. And were we ever taken by this blossoming girl! With eyes like root beer candy and a heart as pure as gold, she quickly became a favorite among our staff and volunteers. “Star lived by her name in the most beautiful ways,” recalled Curtis B., one of our dedicated shelter assistants. “In our care, her compassionate, loving personality could light up any room.”

“Have you ever met a dog so sweet you want to cry? That’s my Star. She is the kindest soul, and it’s impossible not to fall in love with her… As a dog walker who has walked hundreds of wonderful dogs here at Humane Colorado, Star is one I will never forget.
-Emily, Dog Walker

After over a month in our shelter, she finally found the love she was looking for. On June 3, a woman named Brittany came to Humane Colorado (then known as the Dumb Friends League) in search of an affectionate dog like Star. Having lost her beloved father nearly two years before, Brittany chose his birthday as the date she would open her heart to a new family member. “June 3 has become such a sad day for me and my son, Diego,” said Brittany. “I wanted to bring joy to the day and celebrate my father’s legacy.” Since she and Diego had intended to adopt for a while, the timing – and sweetheart Star – just felt right.

Like most adopted pets, it took Star some time to feel comfortable in her new home. But with plenty of patience and roll-over snuggles (or “snoodgels,” as her family lovingly calls them), she finally began to emerge from her shell. Today, she accompanies Brittany and 11-year-old Diego almost everywhere, including on regular neighborhood walks, bike rides, and trips to the grocery store – activities that have not only eased her anxiety but also improved her well-being through exercise and weight loss. Now surrounded by the love, care, and attention she has long deserved, Star has a whole new “leash” on life.

When Star came, I felt like I had somebody I could talk to.

In turn, Star is everything her new family has ever wished for – and then some. Her companionship has brought great comfort to both Brittany and Diego, especially during the painful grieving process. “With my grandfather passing away, I felt pretty lonely,” shared Diego. “It was like I needed someone or something that I could go to, on my own, to tell about my feelings. When Star came, I felt like I sad someone to talk to.” As Diego is on the autism spectrum and Brittany is facing her own health challenges, Star’s reliable friendship and emotional support has been a source of calm, joy, and renewed purpose. In addition to the bond they all share, a few of Star’s favorite activities include being brushed, having her belly rubbed, and practicing downward-dog with Diego. “My dad gave us a star from the heavens on his birthday.”

Find your own perfect match and shining star at any of our three shelter locations.

This article originally appeared in the Spring/Summer 2025 edition of Pet Tales, a Humane Colorado original publication. See our recent edition of Pet Tales.