Internet famous puppy inspires change after adoption at Warren County shelter

WARREN COUNTY, Ohio (WXIX) – After living for nearly six years in a local animal shelter, a dog named Inga now has a forever home and has left a lasting impact on those who cared for her.

Inga’s journey to an eternal family has been a long one. The boxer mix got off to a rough start almost six years ago when she first joined the Humane Association of Warren County at the age of 1. Inga struggled with behavioral problems resulting from severe anxiety.

“When she arrived she was very responsive to other animals,” said general manager Joanne Hurley. “Most of the volunteers couldn’t handle her because of her hopping, biting and barking. “

Volunteers and shelter staff quickly realized that finding the right home for Inga would take time. The team then spent countless hours working with trainers and other experts to help Inga prepare for a new family, but Hurley said repeated potential adoptions never came to fruition.

That changed in 2020 when a video of Inga went viral online.

JC McCann of Vermont saw the viral video story and immediately felt a compassionate connection with Inga, even though he had never met her. He decided to attempt to adopt her, and after training in Warren County himself, he did.

“The time spent here was really intense. It was everyday, working long shifts, learning to manage her and help her, ”McCann said. “There are people in Iceland who know Inga. There are people in Maryland who know Inga. Like many other dogs, she touched us all, and it is this beautiful spirit, this pure spirit of love that truly transcends all boundaries.

On Wednesday, the first anniversary of Inga’s adoption, those involved in the care of the now 7-year-old puppy celebrated her success with a reunion at the shelter. McCann and Inga traveled to Warren County from Vermont.

Hurley said Inga has become a familiar face in the community, which has helped them with fundraising.

“People donated because they believed in what we were doing,” she said. “It’s amazing. It chokes me a little every time, but she is, like I said, one of my favorite accomplishments.”

Hurley credits Inga’s inspiring journey as the reason he changed shelter protocols for behavioral training. She also hopes Inga’s story will encourage other pet parents to remember the importance of patience.

“We have learned with her and learned this proper plan, which we are now able to apply to many dogs that are in the shelter,” said Hurley. “Dogs need safe places, just like a human would. Do not abandon. Contact your local shelter. Get closer to your vet. Contact a trainer. They can help you get through that.

Inga and McCann will return to Vermont on Thursday, but they remain in contact with shelter staff. Hurley said they receive updates on Inga on a weekly, if not daily basis.

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