10/16/2026
Within the first week of adopting Chip, I brought him for a walk on a trail near our home.
Chip was a very anxious and shut down puppy who wanted no part of whatever adventures I had in mind. This particular trail has a small watering hole that we decided to use as our turn-around point. It was a hot summer day, so I was hoping he would go cool off for a moment, but I was assuming he would be too nervous to be interested.
When he reached the water, instead of turning back or panicking, Chip’s face lit up. It was as if he dropped all of his worries in the dirt and just dived right in, splashing around, feeling the coolness of the water wash over him, and grabbing any stick that floated his way.
It was hilarious and heartwarming. He was being a puppy, he was having fun, and for a while, that was the only trail he wanted to go walking on. It became part of our routine. We’d walk to the water hole and back. Over time, I slowly introduced new places to walk. At first he wasn’t impressed to switch it up, but over time his confidence grew and he now has more favorite places to explore.
There are so many things I could share about Chip. He’s the bestest boy and he’s very loved.
Chip’s second chance is just one example of the magic our community's support makes possible! Through the initiative, our dear friends at McGovern Subaru are helping provide direct funding (through an ASPCA-administered grant) to cover essential costs, veterinary care, and more for animals in our care. This month-long initiative is just one of the many ways Subaru of America, Inc. shows up for the NHSPCA and the animals who need us. We’re so grateful for everything they do to help animals like Chip find their way to brighter beginnings.
Thank you, McGovern Subaru and Subaru of America, for being such incredible partners in second chances! 🧡
Looking to adopt your new best friend? Our Adoption Center will be open from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. today and through the weekend and we're located at 104 Portsmouth Avenue in Stratham, NH! See you soon!