Frank was originally transferred to Marin Humane in 2023 from an overcrowded shelter in the Central Valley. At only one year old, this adolescent German Shepherd/Great Pyrenees mix was already very large. Beyond his size, staff immediately identified Frank as a gentle giant due to his easygoing, friendly nature.
After two months in our care, Frank found a home with a local family. Two years later, his family felt unable to give adequate time to Frank because of their busy work schedules, and they sadly brought this sweet boy back to Marin Humane.
Our staff and volunteers remembered Frank well and enjoyed spending time with him. Unfortunately, he became very stressed in the shelter, so our employees brought him into their offices during the day, where he would relax happily, and he spent time in the homes of dedicated foster volunteers as well. A new family adopted him in July and quickly discovered Frank was very destructive when he was left home alone due to separation anxiety. Frank was returned once again.
If you have ever seen a dog display separation anxiety, you know how stressful it can be – to the dog and everyone else around. Unsurprisingly, a big adult dog with a penchant for punching holes in doors is a tough sell. Staff knew his adopters had to be special people AND that we had to set them up with training tools to help him work through his separation anxiety. Marin Humane partnered with a generous donor, who sponsored specialized Separation Anxiety training for Frank and the family who would adopt him.
As luck would have it, a family in Calistoga came forward to adopt Frank. He now lives happily with another dog and people who are home much of the time. Our Behavior & Training experts have spoken with his new family so they can give him all the support he needs to feel safe and secure, even when he’s home alone.
Frank’s story would not be possible without the support of our generous donors. We are incredibly grateful to the donor who sponsored Frank’s separation anxiety training to give him the best chance at a happy life – as well as all of our donors, expert staff, volunteers, and adopters who make it possible for us to help animals like Frank, no matter how long it takes.
