Meet our marvels, our real-life success stories, our wonderful friends who make us cry both tears of joy, and sadness. Frankie and Johnny, the Maremmas.

About 18 months ago these two arrived at our shelter looking dreadful. They were emaciated, flea ridden and could barely move. They had little to no energy.

But unlike Maremmas who, in an ideal environment, would be raised as guardians of animals (see the movie Oddball for background), this pair were raised in a backyard where they’ve developed a good affiliation with people. These are family pets, not working dogs. 

Over a six-month period last year, our staff and volunteers cared for them, rehabilitated them and eventually, they were adopted. We cried. It was magical.

Through no fault of their own or their owners, they are now back at our shelter needing a new home. We cannot believe how wonderfully healthy they are. Despite knowing they need our help again, it was like seeing a beloved old friend. They were given new names upon adoption but still respond to the names we gave them. 

Frankie and Johnny need space but not necessarily a rural setting as they have been raised in a backyard (however, a rural setting would be fine too). 

They are a bonded pair. They’re friendly, house trained, gentle but very large. As in, huge. They will need a good amount of space, regular grooming and human interaction. And love.