Hey there, fellow dog lovers and adventure seekers! It’s time for some tail-wagging fun because our 6th Annual LOOT 4 MOOTS Auction is officially LIVE, and we couldn’t be more excited!



Ready to spoil your pup with gourmet treats or find the perfect accessory to show off your Malamute or Husky spirit? Maybe you're on the lookout for some unique home decor, jaw-dropping art, or even an epic getaway? Whatever you're dreaming of, we’ve got it all lined up for you—just click here to explore the treasure trove: https://wamal.betterworld.org/auctions/loot-moots-2024

We are thrilled to share an inspiring update about Spirit, one of Malley Valley’s former residents, and her heartwarming journey to becoming a beloved member of her new forever home. Spirit, a beautiful, fluffy, white-coated girl, came to WAMAL with several other members of her pack after being surrendered to the Oregon Humane Society in September 2022 for medical care/evaluation. Unfortunately, the pups were unable to return to their former home.

Spirit was especially shy and wary of humans. As her brothers and sisters were adopted and she found herself alone, her fear grew even stronger. However, through the patience and dedication of our volunteers and Caretaker, Spirit slowly began to come out of her shell. Eventually, she found her way to her loving new home with Heidi and her family, where she continues to thrive.

Spirit's early days in her new home were marked by shyness and hesitation. For the first three days, she sat by the front door, unsure of her surroundings. She didn’t eat or drink. Heidi, who had adopted Spirit after being drawn to her challenging beginnings and long stay at WAMAL (she was with us for 18 months), allowed Spirit the time and space she needed to adjust. “It was hard not to touch her, but I knew she needed time to see what a wonderful place she was in,” Heidi says. 

Patience paid off and by the fifth week, Spirit had fully embraced her new home! She now moves confidently from room to room, following not only her humans but also her new fur-sibling, Conner, a Belgian Malinois/Lab rescue. The two have developed an adorable bond—Spirit loves to lay beside or even on Conner, and he affectionately showers her with kisses. The pair have a shared hobby: watching the local wildlife through the windows, especially the deer and squirrels, running from one view to another in unison.

At night, Spirit sleeps in the bedroom, greeting Heidi and the rest of the family each morning with her unique “woo, woo, woo” sound—a sweet reminder that she’s ready for breakfast. Her enthusiasm for food is contagious, especially as she runs back and forth in excitement between the fridge, kibble container, and her eating spot. Spirit has a special place in the family’s morning routine, where she’s spoiled with chicken mixed into her kibble.

The shy and withdrawn dog who, in the beginning, just sat by the door, has truly come out of her shell. Spirit now wags her tail frequently, loves belly rubs, and eagerly accepts treats from the neighbors. Her once matted coat has been groomed with Heidi’s loving help, and Spirit even lets out joyful woo-woos when her family comes home. “Her tail is up now and almost always wagging,” Heidi joyfully shares.

Spirit’s love for snuggles has also flourished. She now knows when it’s “loving time,” understanding what it means when Heidi holds out her arms and wiggles her fingers—Spirit is quick to come over for some affection. It’s been a remarkable transformation from the timid dog who was once unsure of her place.

Heidi’s household is not just made up of Spirit and Conner. There’s also Heidi’s sister Rose, their mother Marianne, and their pet cockatiel, Squeaky. Although Spirit has no interest in the bird, she has seamlessly integrated into her new family, making her mark on each member. “We just love her and are so happy she’s part of our family!” says Heidi, adding how grateful she is that WAMAL saved Spirit.

For anyone considering adopting a shy dog, Heidi offers words of wisdom: “When they first come home, let them adjust on their own. As hard as it is, don’t touch them right away. Give them time to see what a safe and loving place they’re in. If they don’t eat during the day, give them their food before you go to bed. A quieter home initially is better.”

Heidi found WAMAL after googling Washington malamute rescues, and she’s grateful she did. After rescuing malamute mixes from shelters before, she knew Spirit was the one when she saw her story. Spirit may have had a difficult past, but today, she is thriving in a home full of love, companionship, and joy. Heidi adds “Spirit is amazing! She is smart, sassy, snuggly and silly! We love having her as part of our family! Thank you WAMAL for saving her!”

From all of us at WAMAL and, especially the volunteers who worked with Spirit during her stay with us, thank you, Heidi and family, for giving Spirit the second chance she so deeply deserved!

As the days grow shorter and the weather turns chilly, we often see a drop in volunteers at our Malley Valley Kennel in Puyallup, WA. The holiday season brings busy schedules, but our dogs still need your love and attention.

This is where you can make a real difference! Whether you’re a seasoned dog walker or prefer more low-key tasks, we have plenty of ways for you to help. Even just a few hours of your time can improve the lives of our dogs while they wait for their forever homes.

Not a fan of long walks in the cold? No problem! There are plenty of other ways to contribute:



• Sit with our dogs: Simply being with them can be so comforting. You can even read them a book!
• Brushing: Gentle grooming is relaxing and great bonding time.
• Enrichment activities: Help fill Kongs, enrichment mats, and bowls to keep our dogs mentally stimulated.
• Cleaning: Yes, it includes picking up poop in the paddocks—but every bit helps to keep their environment clean and happy.
• Folding laundry: Even small tasks like this are invaluable to us!

Volunteering is more than just helping our dogs; it’s a way to find connection, especially during the colder darker months. We truly cannot do it without you, and the dogs will be forever grateful for your time and care.

If you can spare even a little bit of time, please contact us today to learn how you can help. Let’s make sure our dogs feel loved and cared for, even through the busiest time of the year. Email us at volunteer@wamal.com.

WAMAL has our very own Bonfire online store! Now, you can support our wonderful pups and look amazing while doing it! And remember, holiday gifting season is quickly approaching!!

Explore our collection of t-shirts, cozy sweatshirts (both hooded and crewneck), long sleeves, and tank tops, available in stylish dark grey/charcoal and indigo. Each top proudly showcases the WAMAL logo with the heartfelt phrase "We Pull for Them" underneath.

Don't miss out—take a peek and snag your favorites today!

https://www.bonfire.com/store/wamal/  

WAMAL is a 100% volunteer-run organization, and we would love to welcome you to our pack! Whether you have a spare hour a week or more, your time and effort can make a huge difference. From joining existing teams to volunteering at events to brainstorming or coordinating fundraisers, there's a role for everyone. Join us in our mission to rescue and rehome these wonderful Malamutes. Together, we can create a brighter future for these pups. Reach out and become part of something truly special! Below you can find the contact info for your volunteer area of interest:

 

• Specific teams (Intake, Foster, Evaluations, Fundraising, Adoptions): board@wamal.com
• Volunteering at events: events@wamal.com
• Volunteer at our Malley Valley kennel in Puyallup, WA: volunteer@wamal.com
• Join the WAMAL Ambassadog team: volunteer@wamal.com  

Admit it - when you saw my picture it made you smile! Between my Baby Yoda ears, my sweet expression, and my cute side tongue you can't help but smile back at me!

My name is Shelby, and if you will give me a forever home I promise to make you smile like that every day! That's a pretty great deal don't you think?

I'm somewhere around 5-6 years old. I'm a bit on the smaller side for a mal, and medium to lower energy, so I'd be a great choice for someone who loves the malamute look and personality but maybe not the malamute chaos. I could warm up to a doggie brother if our interactions were properly managed, or I could be happy as your only dog! I'm great company; I like to follow you around in the house and lay in the same room that you are in.

I have environmental allergies, but they are well-managed with medication and ear cleanings. So don't let that stop you from applying to adopt me! I'll be the sweetest snuggle buddy you've ever had!