Forest the Raven Hound Finds His Forever Family

Little did we know when we visited the Bow Valley SPCA in the summer of 2010 what a difference a dog would make.  After some persistence on my part, as a dog lover, to convince Ben, we decided to find a dog to adopt. Forest was a stray in Canmore when he was first picked up by by-law in early August before ending up in the SPCA’s care

Having spotted him and reading his 'bio' on the SPCA website I was excited to meet him in person. Once I saw him quietly and patiently sitting in his room while his roommate barked at my arrival, I knew he was an old soul and just the dog for us. I brought Ben back the next day nervously hoping Forest would be coming home with us. But first Forest would have to win Ben's approval. I was confident Forest would come through with flying colors.  Forest aced it. sit, stay, heel, come he was calm and abiding to Ben's commands.

Right away his quirky and very tolerant character started to show.  He vocalized before he barked, watched and observed us with great interest, was happy to tolerate lots of hugs and  attention from a couple of strangers. 

For the first 4 weeks he was very quiet, never once barking as we recall... Wow he doesn't bark, boy what a lucky catch for us! this was not to last. Finally it happened... he barked.
We immediately ran to the patio door to try and see what had aroused him to such
heights... sitting on a branch was a big black Raven.  The secret was out. In the weeks ahead we were to learn through countless barking, chasing and whining episodes that he was a Raven Hound, possibly though bred, so committed was he to their pursuit.

For those who've been witness, Forest is well known for his 0 to 60 out-of-the-gate response once a raven has been spotted. 

Nothing else brings us as much joy as walking Forest at the dog park, going on a hike in the mountains and sharing our home. His enthusiasm is contagious, his character a true spirit and his affections greatly appreciated. Weekends and vacations are planned to include Forest since after all he's a member of the family.   

We had no information of his history but knew from his battle scars and stoic strength that life had been hard for him. Rescue dogs have a way of making you appreciate life in their strength and resilience. We've had the opportunity to volunteer with the Bow Valley SPCA Fashion Show.  We hope that our contributions will help others in Bow Valley connect with the animals patiently waiting for their Forever homes.

Our family was complete once he ran into our lives...

 Valerie Kriston and Ben Miles