The Community Archive

Because someday
is today.

Every outing of Little Big Paws Pontoon — Always & Furever’s lake days for sanctuary dogs who are still waiting for a family — captured from the community group as it happened, from the very first ride (July 2025) through August 12, 2026, newest first.

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August 2026

4 posts this month

The story continues…

August 12

HULK'S ADVENTURE

What a beautiful morning for a pontoon ride and what a perfect pup for the adventure. So peaceful riding on the water. We got to see an eagle soaring above the trees. So cool. Hulk was so helpful with everything. He helped Sara get boat ready to go, helped her drive, put leash around me abd sat on me to keep me safe, kept checking the front of boat to make sure we were going the right direction, helped us pull up to gas pump to re-fuel, met a new friend and helped Sara Mills park the boat for next time. Hulk was absolutely perfect. He rode great on the car, never pulled when walking to and from boat and was so relaxed. He liked our country music and had a couple great dance moves. I don't know why he hasn't found a home. Come on people, he's perfect. Here's a lot of pictures from the morning. I hope you enjoy some of them.
Photo — August 12 2026 Photo — August 12 2026 Photo — August 12 2026 Photo — August 12 2026 Photo — August 12 2026
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August 12

Another fun pontoon adventure with Hulk and Juanita!! Hulk is doing so great!!

Email me at littlebigpaws@alwaysandfurever.org to take a barn dog out on the boat for a little break! Jen bought this boat so our dogs could live their best life even while they’re in our care. They don’t have to wait for their furever to get a fun life! It’s all paid for by her, not with donor money.
Photo — August 12 2026
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August 6

Little Big Paws Pontoon is back with special guests long legged Ruby and our amazing volunteers…

Little Big Paws Pontoon is back with special guests long legged Ruby and our amazing volunteers Ann and Tom!
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August 2

Little Big Paws is our way of making sure shelter dogs don't spend life simply waiting for…

Little Big Paws is our way of making sure shelter dogs don't spend life simply waiting for adoption. While they wait, they get adventures, sunshine, car rides, lake days, and the chance to simply be a dog. This program is personally funded, not by donor dollars, because we believe every animal deserves a life worth living today, not someday. Ruby is still waiting for her forever family. If you'd like to foster or adopt this sweet, long-legged girl, apply today at alwaysandfurever.org. Sometimes all it takes is one moment... and one person... to change a life forever. If you would like to volunteer and take one of our shelter pups to the lake email littlebigpaws@alwaysandfurever.org
Video — August 2 2026
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July 2026

3 posts this month

Back in season with Captain Sara at the helm.

July 26

Good morning!! Rainy day out on the lake with a couple volunteers who are in town for the Gala…

Good morning!! Rainy day out on the lake with a couple volunteers who are in town for the Gala on Saturday! They took Wanda for a sleepover last night so we brought her out on the lake for a little while. It started sprinkling so we’re not staying out too long. We thought it might pass pretty quickly. Jen bought the pontoon so our dogs could experience life while they’re in our care. No donor dollars are used for these adventures! Email littlebigpaws@alwaysamdfurever.org if you'd like to volunteer and bring a dog on a ride with Captain Sara today!
Photo — July 26 2026
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July 22

Today was Paxton's Lake Day.

One of our favorite parts of the week is taking a shelter dog out for a special adventure. While they're waiting for a family, we want them to experience more than four walls. We want them to feel the wind, ride in the car, watch the water, and remember that life is meant to be lived. Today, that lucky dog was Paxton. The funny thing is, after all the excitement of the boat, the lake, and the adventure, none of it compared to his favorite place. Curled up beside his best friend. That's Paxton. He'll happily trade the best seat on the boat for a lap and a few extra scratches behind the ears. He reminds us that the biggest joys in life are often the simplest ones. Paxton has been waiting far too long for a family. He's dog friendly, full of love, and ready to spend every day making someone smile. If you've been thinking about fostering or adopting, maybe you've been waiting for Paxton just as much as he's been waiting for you. Apply today at alwaysandfurever.org/forms. A quick note about Little Big Paws because many of you have asked. This program isn't funded by donor dollars. The pontoon was personally purchased to give our sanctuary and shelter dogs special adventures while they wait for their forever families. We believe every dog deserves more than just food and shelter. They deserve memories. They deserve joy. They deserve a life worth living today—not just after they're adopted.
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July 18

We are BACK IN SEASON! And please help us welcome Captain Sara Mills !

If you want to pick up a shelter pup and meet our new Captain Clinton Marina in Lawrence email littlebigpaws@alwaysandfurever.org today!
Video — July 18 2026
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June 2026

1 post this month

June 15

Once a month, we open the door for you to sit down (virtually!) with Jen and our team and hear…

Once a month, we open the door for you to sit down (virtually!) with Jen and our team and hear what’s really happening behind the scenes at Always & Furever. No scripts. No formal agenda. Just real conversation. This is your space—to ask questions, share ideas, give input, and stay connected to the work you help make possible every single day. Because this isn’t just our mission - it’s yours too. If you’ve ever wanted to be more involved, this is the easiest (and most meaningful) way to do it. Tomorrow, May 2 | 10:00 AM (Central)� Join us on Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85836472039... We would truly love to see you there.
Photo — June 15 2026
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April 2026

2 posts this month

The lake calls again — Sabrina gets her moment.

April 25

What if rescue meant living… right now?

Today, Sabrina gets her moment. No waiting. No past. Just joy. Help her find a home to keep it going. #foster #adopt #donate #YouCanMakeADifference #lovethislittleredbarn
Video — April 25 2026
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April 25

What if rescue didn’t mean waiting… what if it meant living right now

This is Little Big Paws Pontoon I bought this boat so our dogs don’t have to sit and wait for life to start. They get out on the water, feel the breeze, soak up love, and just be dogs again. Today it’s Sabrina’s turn She’s about 3 years old and has never had a moment like this before. She was saved from a high kill shelter and you would never know it by the way she leans in for love. She’s great with other dogs. Great with people of all sizes. We’re not sure about cats yet. And today, for the first time, she gets to feel what life is supposed to be. No kennels in this moment. No past. No fear. Just now. Life is too short for them to wait. Please share to give Serena a real chance. Look her up to foster or adopt. This is rescue reimagined. #foster #adopt #donate #YouCanMakeADifference #lovethislittleredbarn
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December 2025

1 post this month

December 27

Today was a Little Big Paws Pontoon kind of day with our sanctuary boy TK.

TK is not meant to be with a family. So we are his family. And that means it is our responsibility and our privilege to make his life count. To slow down. To live in the moment with him. To fill his days with peace, sunshine, and love. At 65° at the end of December, there really is no better way to spend a day. Fresh air. Calm water. A quiet boat. And a dog who knows he belongs. This pontoon outing is not sponsored by donor money. I personally purchased the pontoon and paid for the gas. Not for content. Not for recognition. But because our animals deserve a life worth living. Every single one of them. For some dogs, forever looks different. And that is okay. TK does not need more than what he already has. He needs presence. Consistency. And love that shows up every day. There is something powerful about choosing joy in the moment and surrounding yourself with love. Especially on days like this. This is what Little Big Paws is all about. Making life meaningful. Making memories. And honoring the souls God placed in our care. Alwaysandfurever.org No Kill. No Kennel. Join the Movement. Believe.
Video — December 27 2025
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September 2025

4 posts this month

September 30

Yesterday was Velvet’s Lake Day

Our sweet senior mastiff Velvet stepped onto the pontoon, and for a moment, her years of waiting melted into joy. No donor funds were used on this adventure—it was simply love, time, and the belief that every soul is worth it. Velvet only gets one life, and we’re determined to make it beautiful. Every memory, every moment, every smile matters. Choose to foster. Choose to adopt. Choose to rescue. Invest in memories. Invest in life. Invest in joy. alwaysandfurever.org/forms #AdoptVelvet #SeniorDogsDeserveLove #LittleBigPawsPontoon #LoveThemNow #DifferentKindOfShelter
Video — September 30 2025
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September 29

Every Day Matters: Velvet’s Little Big Paws Pontoon Outing

Today was Velvet’s turn on the pontoon. At first, she was nervous—just walking the dock with her big, heavy steps. But the moment she climbed onto the boat, all her fears melted away. For a little while, our 110-pound senior mastiff forgot the world had overlooked her. She was free. Velvet is cat-friendly, and while she’s selective with her dog friends, she works with trainers every day at the barn and does beautifully there. She sometimes resource guards, but that’s not who she is—it’s just what she hasn’t yet learned not to do. Too many times, she’s been given a chance, and almost just as quickly, returned. And yet… her heart remains soft, ready, and deserving of love. Our lake days aren’t about donors or dollars. This pontoon was purchased with my own funds, and we even cover the gas personally. Why? Because every cent is worth it for a moment like this. Because shelter should mean more than cages. It should mean love. It should mean freedom. For many of our animals, we are the only family they will ever know. Sometimes, heartbreakingly, they never find their forever home. But God entrusted them to our care, and that means we must make the most of each day. We owe them joy. We owe them hope. We owe them love in the here and now. Velvet is often overlooked. But she is extraordinary. She deserves someone patient and kind, someone who sees her not as “too big” or “too much,” but as the gentle, beautiful soul that she is. Choose to foster. Choose to adopt. Choose to give Velvet the home she has been waiting for. Because her life matters. And so does today. alwaysandfurever.org/forms #EveryDayMatters #LittleBigPawsPontoon #LoveThemNow #DifferentKindOfShelter #SeniorDogsDeserveLove #VelvetTheMastiff #AdoptVelvet #RescueDogJoy #NotCagesButLove #ShelterDogsMatter #RescueDifferent #FosterDontWait #AdoptDontShop #AlwaysAndFurever #PontoonTherapy
Video — September 29 2025
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September 27

Today we celebrated Rosie Roo’s upcoming birthday with a Little Big Paws Pontoon outing. She’s…

Today we celebrated Rosie Roo’s upcoming birthday with a Little Big Paws Pontoon outing. She’s turning six this week, and after waiting three long years for a family, she deserves to feel the freedom of the water, the sunshine on her face, and love in this very moment. It is a privilege and an honor to care for and love God’s animals. And if they don’t yet have a home—we are that home. Because shelter should mean more than cages. Shelter should mean love. We believe in making the most of today. Not waiting for “someday.” Not waiting for “someone.” That’s what makes us different. We’re not your average shelter. We don’t wait for someone else to love them—we love them now. Rosie Roo is cuddly, gentle, and loving. She can be shy at first, but her heart is pure gold. More than anything, she deserves a forever home to call her own. Choose to foster. Choose to adopt. Choose to love Rosie Roo. Because she is worth it. alwaysandfurever.org/forms
Video — September 27 2025
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September 27

Birthday Lake Day for Rosie Roo!

Today we celebrate our girl Rosie Roo with a very special Little Big Paws Pontoon outing—because birthdays deserve more than cake, they deserve joy. Rosie was saved, but she’s still waiting for her furever. She’s great with big dogs and just a little nervous around men—but she is so incredibly worth it. This pontoon wasn’t purchased with donor funds. It’s privately owned, and even the gas is paid for personally. Why? Because this isn’t about money. It’s about living in the moment, making the most of every single day, and showing our shelter dogs that they are loved now—not just someday. So today, Rosie isn’t waiting. She’s out on the water, ears in the wind, soaking up all the love in the world. Help us wish Rosie Roo a happy birthday—and more than anything, help us give her the gift she really deserves: a home of her own. Foster or forever. Apply at: alwaysandfurever.org/forms #HappyBirthdayRosieRoo #LittleBigPawsPontoon #LoveThemNow #ShelterDogsDeserveJoy #AdoptDontShop #Fosteringsaves #DifferentKindOfShelter
Video — September 27 2025
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August 2025

6 posts this month

The first season in full swing — new riders every week and promises kept, rain or shine.

August 14

Copper & Luna’s second day on the lake! (this time with no rain)

They had a blast! Copper swam and Luna napped, more pics and videos to come
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August 4

What a beautiful morning to share with some of those you love! Such a great time- Copper and…

What a beautiful morning to share with some of those you love! Such a great time- Copper and Luna were relaxed, happy, and curious- and without a doubt, felt extremely special and loved. #notyouraverageshelter #alwaysandfurever No donor funds were used for these outings—just our time, our hearts, and our love. Because giving them a life worth living doesn’t always require more than that. Rescue isn’t always about the big wins. Sometimes, it’s just being there and saying: “You’re worthy of joy. Right now. Just as you are.”
Video — August 4 2025
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August 4

It may not seem like much—just a day on the water with a dog.

But for Paxton and me, it was everything. A moment of peace. A break from the noise and stress of the shelter. A chance to just be—to breathe, to feel, to know his life matters. Because rescue isn’t always about the big wins. Sometimes, it’s just showing up and saying: “You’re worthy of love, right now.” Alwaysandfurever.org/forms to foster or adopt Paxton today #LoveThemNow #PaxtonMatters #OneDogAtATime #RescueIsPeace #LongTermNoMore #AlwaysAndFurever #UnderdogMagic #ShelterDogDeservesMore #LakeDaysAndSecondChances He doesn’t do well meeting new people. He’s high energy. He can be very nippy. But he is worth it.
Video — August 4 2025
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August 4

I took Paxton out on the lake today.

He’s one of our long-term shelter dogs. He struggles in the shelter environment. He doesn’t do well meeting new people. He’s high energy. He can be very nippy. But the second I got him in my truck, he curled up and fell asleep. On the boat today, he found peace. We didn’t even go fast. It wasn’t some big adventure. Just calm water, a gentle breeze, and the kind of quiet connection that reminds you what rescue is really about. This boat was purchased with private funds—no donations go toward these outings. Just our time and our love, letting them know their life matters. This is what we strive for—not just keeping them alive, but giving them a life worth living. Not waiting for someone to love them when they’re “easier” or “fixed”… but loving them right now, just as they are. It’s just a short video. But for Paxton, it was a moment of peace. And for me, a reminder of why we do what we do. Apply to foster or adopt this beautiful boy today alwaysandfurever.org/forms #AdoptPaxton #LongTermNoMore #LoveThemNow #ShelterDogDiaries #AlwaysAndFurever #PitbullsDeservePeaceToo #EveryLifeMatters #OneDogAtATime #RescueIsLove #UnderdogsDeserveMore
Video — August 4 2025
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August 4

Tofu’s first time on a boat!

Tofu was lucky enough of to be the dog of the day on our barn staff lake outing! She was absolutely perfect the whole time and loveddd watching the water. Megan Renee even let her take a turn at the wheel lol
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July 2025

20 posts this month

The maiden voyages: the pontoon launches and the first sanctuary dogs feel the lake breeze.

July 31

If you're looking for a nonstop needy wonderful energizer bunny snuggle bug Etta James is your…

If you're looking for a nonstop needy wonderful energizer bunny snuggle bug Etta James is your girl! She LOVES car rides and playing ball and snuggled and floating on a boat Etta is the real deal and HW free!!!! Apply today to foster or adopt alwaysandfurever.org/forms
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July 28

Joy is who you share it with.

Alwaysandfurever.org/forms #Meeko #Smores
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July 28

Such a beautiful day with two wonderful furry friends waiting for a home

#AllSoulsDeserveLove #littlebigpawspontoon Alwaysandfurever.org/forms #Meeko #Smores
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July 28

Could not have loved this special day any more! Don’t know how long we were out there, but I…

Could not have loved this special day any more! Don’t know how long we were out there, but I can tell you it was all smiles and absolutely being present. Watching Hercules soak in all the love, he just knew that this day was all about him and giving him something special. There is a home for the sweet boy out there. He was absolutely incredible today. He settled right in and enjoyed every moment and we are so thankful that we could share this with him. We love you Hurky, so very much. #alwaysandfurever #notyoursverageshelter
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July 28

What an incredibly special day out with Hercules! This sweet boy was taking in every single…

What an incredibly special day out with Hercules! This sweet boy was taking in every single smell, every site, every moment. How very special it was to have the opportunity to see him like this. A smile on his face, the wind flopping his ears and him loving every single second. There is nothing that this day can bring that would make it less than fabulous. Thank you for trusting us Jen Dulski we had a blast! #notyouraverageshelter #alwaysandfurever
Video — July 28 2025
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July 23

MONDAY MYSTERY: Which pup’s taking the plunge next?

This coming Monday’s rider is sweet, not too bold, With a marshmallow heart and a soul made of gold. He’s got bounce in his step, and a snuggle to spare, But with brand-new friends? He might just stare. He loves car rides, and cuddles galore, But he’s been passed up for months—how? We’re not sure! Part boxer, part ham, with a blocky big head, He’d rather share snacks than snuggle with you in bed. Nervous at first, but give him a beat, And you’ll meet the softest heart, wrapped up in sweet. Guess who’s hitting the lake with our crew? He’s not just a snack—he’s the whole hersheys bar, too. Drop your guesses below! Let’s help this shy-but-sweet boy find his ride-or-die. #adopt #LittleBigPaws #PontoonPup And maybe.... his girlfriend will come too! But I wonder if I know which pup it is, do you?
Photo — July 23 2025
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July 22

We promised them a lake day—and we keep our promises.

Meet Luna Balloona & Copper Topper—two of our long-timers who don’t always get to go on outings because of fears, reactivity, or just being overlooked. But today was their day. Even with the rain, we found a calm in the storm, loaded up the Little Big Paws pontoon, and hit the water. No crowds. No chaos. Just love, peace, and the kind of joy you can't buy. Copper is with us forever, a sanctuary pup with a past we honor and protect. But Luna? She’s still waiting—for you. Seven years. So much love to give. Foster or adopt—apply today. These outings aren’t about waiting until "someday." They’re about living in this moment. Reminding every dog they are worthy right now. 100% funded by love and made possible because we believe shelter dogs deserve more than survival—they deserve a life worth living. It didn’t matter that the sun wasn’t out. God’s joy and His love were in every moment. #LunaBalloona #CopperTopper #LittleBigPaws #PontoonPups #AdoptLuna #FosterLove #ShelterDogJoy #FaithInTheJourney #RescueWithHeart #NoKillShelter #SeniorDogSquad #SanctuaryDog #MakeEveryDayCount #NotJustAShelter
Video — July 22 2025
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July 21

Meet Luna, our sweet, snuggly goofball with a heart of gold. She’s been with us since the…

Meet Luna, our sweet, snuggly goofball with a heart of gold. She’s been with us since the beginning — 7 years ago— and while she’s been adopted a few times, she’s always found her way back to us. Now, we’re hoping the right person will finally find their way to her Luna lives in our cozy upstairs area, aka “The Suites”, where we make sure every dog feels as close to “home” as possible until their forever family comes along. We’re not your average shelter here in Spring Hill, KS — we believe every dog deserves a chance, especially those with a few quirks and a lot of love to give. A little tid bit about Luna: * She prefers chill, submissive male dogs or being the queen of the castle! * A bit shy with new people, especially men — but give her a little time and she’ll be your shadow * Sweet, silly, and absolutely obsessed with cuddles * A survivor with a rough past, learning every day that people *can* be kind All Luna needs is someone patient, kind, and ready to love her as fiercely as she’ll love you back. She’s not just a “dog”— she’s a once-in-a-lifetime kind of soul. Could you be the one to give Luna the second chance she’s been waiting for? **Share, tag, and help us find Luna’s forever!** #AdoptLuna #RescueDog #SpringHillKS #AdoptDontShop #ForeverHomeWanted #DogLove #AnimalRescue #adopt #foster #fosteringsaveslives #shelterdog #shelter #cutedogs
Photo — July 21 2025
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July 21

It rained today... but we promised them a lake day.

So off we went. No sun, no crowds—just love. Luna’s been waiting 7 years for a family. Copper will live with us forever. They are worth saving. They are worth this joy. We don’t wait for perfect. We live in the moment. We love them now. What is Little Big Paws Pontoon? It’s not a program funded by donations. It’s not about promotion or perfection. It’s simply about love. Little Big Paws Pontoon Outings was created as a way to give our shelter dogs something they rarely get— A moment to feel free. To feel joy. To feel loved. It’s our way of saying: you matter, you’re not forgotten, you deserve this. No fundraising. No agenda. Just a personal gift to remind them that life can be beautiful—even while they wait. Because sometimes, the smallest paws leave the biggest marks on our hearts. #LittleBigPawsPontoon #LiveInTheMoment #FureverLove #JoyInTheJourney #AlwaysAndFurever #CarpeDiem #RescueDogJoy #PontoonPups #AdoptLuna #SanctuaryDog #SeniorDogSquad #RescueReimagined #ShelterWithLove #LittleBigPaws #AdoptDontShop #FaithInTheJourney #FosterSaveLove #JoyInTheOrdinary #NoKillShelter
Video — July 21 2025
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July 21

Cutest little pontooners around

We promised them a raincheck when it its #notyouraverageshelter
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July 20

Guess who’s sailing into Monday morning magic on our next Little Big Paws Pontoon outing?

They’ve both waited years for a moment like this— Two souls once forgotten, now wrapped in bliss. One came from Oklahoma, leg broken and sore, The other from Wichita, allergies she still battles and much much more. They live on a farm, a funny odd pair, Each with their quirks, always handled with care. They don’t go out often, it sad but true—but tomorrow they’ll ride the waves like it’s long overdue. Get ready for videos, photos, and fun... Our lives are ridiculous, chaotic, and always on the run! But in the middle of the madness, love leads the way— And tomorrow morning, it’s their turn to seize the day. So tell us, dear friends, if you’ve got the knack... Who do you think will be riding out back? Comment your guess and wish them a paw-some trip! #PoundToonAdventure #SelectiveCrewMonday #RescueLove #LittleBigPawsPontoon #Alwaysandfurever
Photo — July 20 2025
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July 20

Little Big Paws: Pontoon Outing – Day FOUR with Leggy Lou!

Today’s special guest on the lake was none other than our long-time gal Leggy Lou—and let us tell you, she earned every minute of this peaceful sunset cruise. Leggy Lou doesn’t need fancy intros—she's a shelter favorite with a big heart and even longer legs. She’s selective with her people, does amazing once she bonds, and is great with male submissive dogs. She’s been with us a very long time… and not one adoption application. Not one. That’s why this program matters. Our Little Big Paws lake days aren't funded by donor dollars. This isn’t a campaign or a fundraiser. It’s just us saying: They deserve joy now. Not when they're adopted. Not someday. Now. Leggy Lou didn’t ask to be overlooked. She’s been patient, loyal, and full of love—waiting. So today, we gave her a special night out. She laid her head on our lap. She felt the breeze on her face. She knew she mattered. This is what it means to live a life worth living, even while they wait for their furever home. Let’s keep showing up for them. Let’s make every moment count. #LittleBigPaws #LeggyLou #JoyInTheJourney #AdoptDontShop #ShelterLove #AlwaysAndFurever #PontoonPups #LifeWorthLiving #NotJustWaiting
Video — July 20 2025
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July 20

Little Big Paws Pontoon — Outing #5!

It’s a beautiful early Saturday morning, and we’re heading out for our fifth pontoon adventure with Yellowstone, Casper, and Rosie Roux! Because the marina is open and we had extra volunteer support today, we brought pups who are dog and people-friendly. Sweet Rosie has been on a date before and knew exactly what to do. Meanwhile, Yellowstone and Casper soaked up every moment—ears flapping, tails wagging, hearts full. We save Monday mornings for our more selective or reactive pups who need quieter waters. But today? Today was just about celebrating life, living in the moment, and giving these shelter dogs the freedom and joy they deserve. This isn’t just a fun outing. It’s a reminder that every day is a gift—and every soul matters. And just so you know, this pontoon was purchased with my own personal funds, not donor money. Because I wanted them to have something just for them—a break from the shelter, a breath of peace, a taste of joy. All three dogs are available for foster or adoption, and they’d love nothing more than a soft bed and a heart to call home. If you believe shelters should be filled with love, light, and second chances—share this, donate, and pray for their journey. Let’s keep showing the world that they are worth it. #LittleBigPawsPontoon #LiveInTheMoment #AdoptDontShop #ShelterDogsDeserveJoy #FureverLove #MakeTodayCount #RescueDifferent
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July 19

Little Big Paws: Lake Day – Round 2 is in the books!

Today was Round 2 of our Little Big Paws Lake Day adventures—and our special guest was the one and only Mr. Bull Grizzley! If you remember, Shep was our very first lake day co-captain last Monday, and now Bull Grizzley has officially joined the pontoon crew. These peaceful lake mornings are pure joy for our shelter dogs, and we're so excited to announce that for Round 3—this coming Saturday—we’re inviting YOU to join us! We’ll be opening up just 4 volunteer time slots to start, each one hour long. Here’s how it’ll work: Be at the shelter by 8:00 AM Pick up your assigned pup Head to Clinton Marina for your 9:00 AM pontoon ride Soak in the sunshine, the cuddles, and the smiles! We’ll get that SignUpGenius posted soon, so keep your eyes peeled and help us give FOUR amazing shelter dogs a break they so deserve. Bull Grizzley did great—he was a little nervous at first walking the dock, but quickly found his stride (3 mph is his preferred speed ). As long as he’s snuggled on your lap, he’s happy to cruise at any pace. He’s great with other dogs, needs a canine companion in his forever home, and is available to foster or adopt! We’ll also continue Monday morning outings for some of our pups who don’t usually get a chance to leave the shelter. Because every soul deserves joy. Thanks for making moments like these possible. Let’s keep the magic going! #LittleBigPaws #LakeDayLove #PontoonPups #AdoptDontShop #BullGrizzley #RoundTwo #VolunteerLove #AlwaysAndFurever #MakeTheirLivesMatter #JoyInTheJourney
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July 19

Introducing: Little Big Paws Pontoon!

Today, we took our very first ride out on the water with our sweet boy SHEP—and it was nothing short of beautiful. SHEP came to us as a stray and has been in our care for almost a year without a single application. He’s the kind of dog who needs time to trust, so he hasn’t been on any doggy dates… but he absolutely LOVES the water. So, we thought, what better way to show him joy than a peaceful morning on the lake? That’s the heart of Little Big Paws Pontoon—a brand new program where our shelter pups get to leave the kennel behind for a day and enjoy the healing power of nature and connection. We’re inviting volunteers to take one of our dogs out for a weekday outing to Clinton Marina in Lawrence, Kansas. It’s simple: Choose a pup from one of our three locations — KCMO, Osawatomie, or Spring Hill Pick them up And enjoy a little escape on the water together Whether it’s their first time seeing the lake or their first time feeling truly loved, it’s about making the most of every moment we have with them. And just so you know—this pontoon was purchased personally, not with rescue funds. Because this isn’t about anything but love. About reminding these animals they are just as worthy of joy, peace, and adventure as any of our own. --- We are a different kind of rescue. We believe that every animal deserves more than just survival—they deserve love, dignity, and moments of joy. We've saved over 7,000 lives, and every single one has been touched with love. Because to us, they’re not just numbers—they're family. It’s so important to remember that every day is a blessing and a gift. We rely 100% on donations to do this work. If you believe shelters should be run differently—with heart, with hope, and with humanity—please share this post, pray for our mission, and donate today. Together, we can keep showing the world that every life matters. Donate to Save Lives: Give here Website: alwaysandfurever.org/donate Venmo: @AlwaysAndFurever (charity only – others are scammers) PayPal: alwaysandfurever@yahoo.com Zelle: Zelle@alwaysandfurever.org Mail: 23595 W. 223rd Street, Spring Hill, KS 66083 Wichita-specific: zeffy.com/donation-form/wichita Other Powerful Ways to Help: IRA QCDs – Tax-free giving for 70½+ Stock Donations – Avoid capital gains Corporate Matching – Many employers will double your gift
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July 19

Tonight was something truly special.

Leggy Lou joined us for a peaceful sunset cruise, and it was everything she deserved. A calm(ish) lake, a soft breeze, and time away from the shelter where she's waited… and waited… and waited. She’s been in our care for a very long time. Not because she's not wonderful—she is. But because she’s a pit bull, and she’s selective with both her people and dog friends. That label alone has kept her overlooked, unchosen, and forgotten. But not by us. Never by us. But she is not a dog that will fit in every family but we KNOW she will fit in the right family and they are out there. We just dropped a brand new episode of our podcast, and Leggy Lou is the cover dog and the heart of the story. Listen now: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1XIP1fozu2N8ukGZ57bnrx... It shares her journey at the end—the good, the hard, and the absolutely beautiful. She’s not going to be the dog for everyone. But we know in our soul there’s someone out there made for her. She has: Morning zoomies Gentle kisses Wiggles for days Treat-taking manners of a princess Car rides where she nestles in like a lap-sized co-pilot A heart that just wants to belong to someone forever Our trainer has worked tirelessly helping Leggy Lou build trust and confidence. She’s made dog friends. She’s made progress. But more than anything—she needs a chance. That’s what our Little Big Paws pontoon program is all about—giving overlooked dogs their moment of joy at the lake. One on one time away from the shelter. A day to feel peace, freedom, and love now, not “someday.” These outings aren’t funded by donations—they’re just our promise that every soul deserves a life worth living while they wait. She’s been passed over every day for years. Tonight, we gave her a lake. Now she just needs one person to give her a chance. If you feel a tug on your heart, please don’t scroll past. Apply to foster or adopt Leggy Lou today: alwaysandfurever.org/forms Help us find her the happy ending she’s waited so patiently for. She’s ready to be someone’s whole world. Will it be you? #LittleBigPaws #LeggyLou #AdoptDontShop #PontoonPups #LifeWorthLiving #JoyInTheJourney #PodcastDrop #AlwaysAndFurever #LoveLikeThis #DontScrollPast #GiveHerAChance
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July 19

Did someone say they love the lake?! Perfect! Shep loves the lake too! Maybe he can be your…

Did someone say they love the lake?! Perfect! Shep loves the lake too! Maybe he can be your forever lake friend! Join us for a super fun Hot Dog & Cool Cats open house at our Little Gray Barn location! This Saturday, July 12th 11-3! Whether you’re interested in meeting a pup or cat, learning about volunteer opportunities, wanting to meet the staff, or just need a fun time out of the house there is a spot for you! All ages and abilities are welcome! We have walking paths, play yards, & cuddles rooms! There will be free hot dogs and lots of fun! We would absolutely love to see new and old friends so please save the date & share! https://signup.com/go/htPJTJR We are also in need of Hot dogs, buns, chips, & drinks if anyone is willing to help us out! Open house wishlist: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2B4QSEZZDF5QF... Little Gray Barn Address: 10014 E 47th St Kansas City, MO 64133 No matter how old, how sick, how big or how small, we are here to make a home for those animals who are without. Changing the lives of many loving dogs and cats who have nobody to turn to. Every donation counts no matter how big or how small
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July 19

Rosie Posey is ready for her real forever.

She floated fearlessly at our Little Big Paws Pontoon outing—no accidents, no nerves, just joy. She laid down. She soaked in the sun. She belonged. Now, she’s just waiting for someone to choose her. Foster or adopt—apply today. At our shelter, we don’t wait for dogs to get adopted to give them love—we create moments of joy every chance we get. Alwaysandfurever.org/forms to foster or adopt today #AdoptRosiePosey #FosterLove #LittleBigPaws #PontoonPup #RescueDogLife #NotJustAShelter #AdoptDontShop #MakeEveryDayCount #FaithInTheJourney #SeniorDogSquad #NoKillShelter #RescueJoy #FloatingForLove
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July 19

We’re not just a rescue…

We’re not just a rescue… We live in the moment. We love them right now. We make the most of every single day. That’s what Little Big Paws Pontoon is all about—giving dogs like Yellowstone, Casper, and Rosie the joy they’ve waited years to feel. They’ve been overlooked. Forgotten. But not anymore. Share this post so the world can finally see them. Because maybe—just maybe—their forever family is watching. Apply to foster or adopt at: AlwaysandFurever.org/forms #LittleBigPawsPontoon #AdoptDontShop #FureverLove #ShelterDogsDeserveJoy #liveinthemoment
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July 19

Some of our dogs need a little more time to trust. When they don’t get to be part of the…

Some of our dogs need a little more time to trust. When they don’t get to be part of the volunteer fun, we make sure they still feel seen, loved, and special. That’s why we started our Little Big Paws Pontoon program—because every dog is worth celebrating today, not just when they’re adopted. This is rescue, done differently. #RescueDoneRight #LittleBigPaws #PontoonPups #AdoptDontShop #ShelterDogLove #ReactiveDogSupport #DogSanctuary #NoKillShelter #EveryDogMatters #RescueDogLife #Fosteringsaveslives #DogsOfTikTok #Pitbullsoftiktok #LakeLifeWithDogs #WigglyButts #SelectiveNotBroken #RescueMission #ForeverStartsNow #AlwaysAndFurever #MakingMomentsMatter #ChooseRescue #LoveCantWait #FaithInTheJourney #ThisIsRescue
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