Our story...as written by Carly...

We had been looking to rescue a Maltese mix for a few months when "Oreo" and "Keebler" popped up on petfinder.com. At that moment, we knew we were in love. The only problem was, the pups were in Maryland and we were in Michigan. I nervously filled out the application and prayed!

After many phone calls and discussions with the foster mom, Donna, we were invited to come to Maryland and adopt a puppy. Everyone thought we were crazy for going out of state to rescue, but something told us that this was "the one." With tremendous intrepidation, we arrived in DC and drove to Frederick to get our new family member.

From the moment we saw "Mr. Grey Ears" (as Jim called him) we knew he was the puppy for us. Since that time, Keebler (now named Bentley) has proven to be the sweetest, most lovable puppy in ANY state - Maryland OR Michigan!

Bentley immediately became a part of our family and his "foster mom" Donna was a wonderful support system for us. She called to check on him often and gave us great advice about food, vets, obedience training, etc. Thanks to Donna teaching him the "potty, potty" command, he was already housebroken after just a few weeks in our home and now rings a string of bells anytime he needs to go out! Donna made the adoption experience an extrememly positive one for us.

Bentley went from being born in a terrible environment to living the "good life." He loves going on boat trips, running at the dog park and chasing squirrels in our backyard.

He will jump up and give you a "hug" if you kneel down to him and will drown you in kisses if you let him! People often comment that he has a very "human-like" way about him. He is such a little lover.  Everyday we have a new "story" to share about Bentley. Most recently, I came home to find him STARING at the TV watching a dog show on ESPN. He stayed in front of the TV for a good hour....totally enthralled in the show and cocking his head back and forth as the dogs pranced by.  He even barked at my husband when he changed the channel!

Thank you to Donna and the rest of the AWL volunteers for bringing Bentley into our life. We are proud supporters of animal rescue thanks to the positive experience we had with you!

Jim and Carly