At Snowy Owl, our adoption program is one of the most rewarding aspects of what we do. We feel so fortunate not only to get to know and love these incredible dogs but also to connect them with amazing families when they retire. Hearing updates about how they’re doing in their new homes is something we cherish, and Kraken’s story is a perfect example of this.
Kraken, an 11-year-old retired sled dog, was adopted in April 2024 by a loving family in Kelowna, BC. His new owners, Spencer and Joanne, are teachers who share their home with their two sons, Cole (18) and Richard (8). The family lives on a half-acre property, giving Kraken plenty of space to enjoy his new life of leisure and adventure.
The family had long dreamed of adopting a husky, and the opportunity to welcome Kraken into their lives was the perfect fit. “We wanted to get our feet wet with an older dog to get used to the needs of a working breed… but we might be hooked on the Snowy Owl pack for life!” his new owners shared. Kraken quickly settled in, and the family was surprised by just how affectionate he turned out to be. “We didn’t expect a retired sled dog to be so ridiculously affectionate,” they said.
Kraken has become particularly attached to Joanne, following her around the house and always seeking her out for snuggles. “Kraken most enjoys following Joanne, staring at Joanne, snuggling with Joanne, and going for walks or being fed by just about anyone!” his owners wrote, noting that while Kraken enjoys the company of everyone in the family, he is undeniably a “mama’s boy.”
Since joining his new family, Kraken has had some fun learning experiences. His owners recounted how he was fascinated by the kitchen when he first arrived, even attempting to climb onto the counters to investigate the enticing smells. Over time, he learned that the kitchen is off-limits, but his curiosity remains. Kraken is also gradually getting used to children, though he still finds them a little puzzling. “He’s very gentle, but he thinks kids are pretty weird,” his family observed.
Despite these quirks, Kraken has brought endless joy to his new home, keeping the family active with his love for walks and outdoor adventures. “Kraken keeps us extra active, and his constant need for snuggles has been a big plus too!” they shared.
Reflecting on their experience adopting a retired sled dog, Kraken’s owners noted how clear it was that all the dogs at Snowy Owl are loved and well cared for. “It’s obvious that all the dogs at Snowy Owl are loved and cared for so dearly by the owners and staff,” they said. The most challenging part of the process, they admitted, was narrowing down which dog to adopt. “Next time, I’ll have the dedicated adoption coordinator at Snowy Owl choose only one dog for me to meet!” they joked.
Kraken’s story is a heartwarming reminder of the special bond that forms between sled dogs and their forever families. At Snowy Owl, we are thrilled to see him thriving in his new home, surrounded by love and care. It’s stories like this that make our adoption program so fulfilling, knowing that our dogs continue to be cherished as they embark on the next chapter of their lives.