Banjo (formerly known as Orange) came to us as an owner surrender. He arrived terrified of men and not in the best of health. We knew he needed extra love and attention as soon as possible so we sent him straight into a foster home. He struggled with his new foster dad, but luckily he was with a wonderful foster home who was understanding of his past and not afraid of giving him the extra time and training he needed to feel safe.

Read this update from his old foster mom who is now his new adoptive mom:

“Hello Angel’s Retreat,

I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for bringing us together with Banjo (formerly known as Orange). He is the kindest, most compassionate, most affectionate, most devoted and best dog I have ever met. And, even after dozens of family dogs over the decades, all 6 of my siblings agree.

My mother unexpectedly passed away on September 30th, and Banjo proved himself to be every bit a trained emotional-support dog. The consolation this little boy is capable of giving is astounding. He even attended my mother’s wake, where he sat quietly and respectfully, consoling the entire family for the entire day. He was truly a gift to all of us on that day. So, you didn’t just change his life; you changed our lives too.

I am so glad that my husband and I took more time fostering him, giving him the time he needed for overcoming his fear of men, rather than giving him up for someone else to adopt him. I don’t know how I could have come through these past weeks without him.

He goes everywhere with us, and everyone who meets him is deeply touched by him. He is simply extraordinary.

Many, many thanks to you for rescuing our boy for us.”

These updates mean so much to us here at Angel’s Retreat, and knowing that we were able to help Banjo find his way to his forever home is what this is all about.