Poppy

My story

When Poppy first arrived, it became clear that this sweet American Bully cross wasn't quite convinced that adventure was worth the risk. Walks felt overwhelming. She'd often plant her feet and refuse to move. Carry her just far enough away, though, and her curiosity would begin to take over. Step by step, she'd find her courage and start exploring, realizing that the world beyond her comfort zone might actually be full of wonderful things. She's made great progress since then, but she's still known to put the brakes on during walks when something feels uncertain. She'll thrive with someone who can be patient, encouraging, and celebrate the little victories along the way. That's Poppy in a nutshell: brave but still learning. What she knows without question is that people are wonderful. If cuddling were an Olympic sport, Poppy would be standing on the podium with a gold medal around her neck. She loves being close to her people, soaking up every bit of affection she can get before happily curling up for a nap beside them. Her favorite place isn't a fancy dog bed or a pile of toys; it's wherever her person happens to be. Like any puppy her age, Poppy has plenty of energy and loves to play. She's friendly with other dogs, enjoys their company, and walks nicely alongside them. She can sometimes become so excited that she forgets to listen when another dog has had enough playtime. Because she's still learning those social cues, she'd likely be happiest with medium or large dogs that enjoy an active play style, or with confident, playful smaller dogs who can match her enthusiasm. Cats, on the other hand, barely earn a second glance. Poppy greets them with polite curiosity, gives them a sniff, and carries on with her day. She's also making wonderful progress with the practical parts of growing up. Her crate training has come a long way, and she's now happy to settle in her crate overnight, sleeping comfortably for seven to eight hours without an accident. Her house training is progressing beautifully as well, and she's learning household routines with each passing day. What Poppy needs most isn't perfection. She needs someone who understands that puppies don't come with all the answers. Someone who sees beyond the occasional stubborn walk or overexcited play session and recognizes the incredibly loving, loyal dog she's becoming. She's the puppy who leans into your side for comfort. The one who falls asleep touching your feet because being close to her people makes her feel safe. The one who is learning, every single day, that home is a place where she doesn't have to worry anymore. Poppy is still writing her story. The lucky person who adopts Poppy won't just be bringing home a puppy. They'll be giving a young dog the chance to continue building the confidence she's worked so hard to find—and they'll have the joy of watching her blossom into an affectionate, playful, devoted companion who loves with her whole heart. Please complete an adoption request: https://www.hamilton.ca/home-neighbourhood/animals-pets/adopt-or-foster-pet/adoptions Animal adoptions and viewing are by appointment only. This allows our Adoption Staff to spend quality time with each potential home to ensure the most successful matches are made between the animals and their new families. *Please note: we only adopt within Ontario

If you have any questions or would like to adopt Poppy, please reach out to the adoption group directly. PetSmart Charities does not facilitate the adoption process. Thank you.