Hi Ya'll!
Wanted to make our first post about our newest member of the sanctuary Family, WINSTON, (aka Winnie!)
He came to us on December 6th, 2025 and has quickly become one of the sanctuary doggie gang.
He came from a loving family who wanted more for him after they had some trouble with him getting along with some other dogs in their family.
When Winston first arrived at the sanctuary, he came with a mixture of uncertainty, longing, and the familiar quirks shaped by his past home. His first night was calm. By breakfast the next morning, he was already showing us little pieces of himself.
We watched him settle into his new routine, slow and thoughtful at first, then gradually more at ease. We fed him separately, just as his previous family had, letting him feel safe without competition. We noticed his resource guarding —growling when another dog walked past while he enjoyed a raw chicken quarter.
Winston spent his early hours exploring the property, taking in the scents, the sounds, and the presence of the other dogs.
He especially connected with Zoe, another relinquished dog with a few quirks of her own. They didn’t mind each other. In fact, Winston seemed to appreciate her companionship.
And then it happened—one of the first truly heartwarming moments. A still frame of Winston lying outside in the shade, relaxed and comfortable among the dogs. The kind of picture that fills a heart back up. We sent an update to his previous owner, and the response was, “Gosh… seeing this fills me with so much joy.”
The next few days, Winston’s true colors began to appear. A stiff posture that actually meant excitement. A tail twitch that meant, “I want to play.” A pause before offering a gentle invitation to Duke, our big-hearted survivor from doggy death row. And then, just like that, Winston played. Really played. He ran in circles, tossed his head back, bowed, and let himself enjoy the freedom of rough-housing with the others.
Though it hasn't been long, there have been learning moments, too. When one of the dogs approached the spot where Winston had just eaten—no bowls, no leftover food, just space—Winston reacted instinctively. He corrected quickly, but just as quickly, he responded to a firm “ch!” and stopped immediately. No escalation. No harm. Just learning. Understanding. Resetting. And then, incredibly, returning to invite the same dog to play.
His previous owner worried they may have contributed to some of his behaviors, but the truth is simple—Winston isn’t a “bad” dog. He’s a smart, sensitive dog who responds beautifully to clear leadership and calm structure. With the right environment, he is showing exactly who he has the potential to be.
As the days have gone by, Winston has continued to settle into a rhythm—resting in the sun, exploring confidently, engaging in play on his own terms, and showing us more and more of his goofy, thoughtful nature.
For now, Winston is exactly where he needs to be—playing, learning, relaxing in the sunshine, and rediscovering the parts of himself that had been overshadowed by stress.
Today we took Winnie to Ocean Beach for the first time.
He enjoyed exploring the rocky beach and getting some California sunshine.
Winston’s story isn’t finished.
But this chapter is full of healing, hope, connection, and the gentle unfolding of who this lil guy is.
We are honored to be part of his journey.
Much love xx Conscious Canine Sanctuary Family