National Change a Pet’s Life Day – Meet Lava Licorice

Introduction: 

Right now, there are millions of dogs, cats, and other animals in shelters across the United States.  Many shelters, including our own San Francisco Animal Care and Control are overcrowded – especially with larger dogs.  

At Pet Camp, many of our campers are “rescue dogs.” While some were once timid and shy, with a pet parent’s love and kindness they’ve blossomed into outgoing, happy campers. We got the chance to hear from the pet parent of one of our campers, Lava Licorice, and learn more about how adopting this special pup changed both of their lives. 

Questions: 

#1 Lava Licorice is an adorable pup with a very unique name! How did she get her name? 

The rescue organization named our pup Lava. Somehow, it perfectly suited her black fur and dark eyes. At the same time, my daughter was a big fan of black licorice, and I had named every pet from my own childhood after food (Bubble Gum, Keebler, and others), so the name felt meant to be. Lava Licorice just fit us and our pup.

#2 What made you want to adopt a pet, and what specifically drew you to Lava Licorice? 

My husband and I both grew up with animals.  Cats and dogs were simply part of our households, and we’d always imagined having a pet of our own someday. Reality, however, had other plans: busy workdays and the cost of pet ownership in a city put that dream on hold. Our daughter, who was eight at the time, was far more persistent. She desperately wanted a dog to cuddle, play with, and love, and we liked the idea of her learning both the joy and responsibility that come with caring for a pet.

When the pandemic hit and we suddenly found ourselves at home, the timing finally felt right. We realized we could actually commit to training a puppy, so we went searching, and that’s when we found Lava online. We knew right away we wanted to adopt a rescue and give a dog who needed it a loving home. Discovering that Lava’s mom had been a pregnant stray, rescued off the streets of Tijuana, sealed the deal. 

#3 How has Lava Licorice changed from when you first adopted her to now? 

Lava had such expressive eyes that we couldn’t resist. From the very beginning, she loved everyone…people and dogs alike. She was all puppy: stealing shoes, peeing on the floor, and generally keeping us on our toes. We spent a lot of time working on leash training and basic manners.

Around the six-month mark, she was startled by an aggressive dog and suddenly found her voice by becoming a barker. Limited opportunities for socialization during the pandemic may have played a role as well. While we haven’t been able to train the barking completely out of her, good leash control and plenty of treats for calmly passing other dogs have helped some. In public, Lava Licorice can be a bit of a handful—but we wouldn’t trade her for any other dog.

As for her best traits, we each have our favorites. For me, it’s the way she leans into my legs every morning, asking for a pet. Lava is a working dog and a natural herder. She needs to be with her people and prefers us all in one place. She thrives on stimulation and, if she doesn’t get enough, she creates her own. When she’s bored, she steals things: shoes, tissues, socks, toys—anything within reach. She tiptoes back to her lair (under the dining table), inevitably giving herself away by the distinctive clack of her nails on the floor, a sound unique to her thieving missions. She rarely damages what she steals; she’s simply asking for attention and it brings us all joy.

#4  How has Lava Licorice changed your life? 

Love and joy are the first things that come to mind! Lava Licorice anchors our days with routine and shared presence. As an adult, I experience loving a dog very differently than I did as a child. Childhood affection was fleeting and easily distracted, but this love is daily, intentional, joyful, and deeply felt. It feels fuller and more genuine.  I’m so grateful for her presence in our lives.

#5 Do you have any advice for people who are considering welcoming a shelter pet into their life? 

Many rescue animals arrive carrying stories you may never fully know, and they need time to feel safe, to trust, and to understand that you are their permanent home. Along the way, they often have to adjust to entirely new worlds—the sounds of the city, and in Lava’s case, strollers, wheeled luggage, and beagles (her least favorite sound of all).

Learning the nuances of your dog’s personality can be one of the most meaningful parts of the journey. For Lava, that meant discovering how deeply she loves a schedule. When we show up on time, she trusts us more, and we’re rewarded with her calm, confidence, and affection. 

Thanks for reading.

Pet Camp has been providing award winning pet care for San Francisco’s dogs and cats since 1997.  From a breeder or a shelter, Pet Camp will give your dog or cat amazing care and opportunities for fun and enrichment.  If you are a San Francisco pet parent in need of dog day care, overnight care for your dog or cat, bathing, dog training or transportation – give us call!