St. Mary’s Shelter Dog Returned After Adoption, Now Needs Community’s Help

CALIFORNIA, Md. — A sweet shelter dog named Maple Syrup is once again searching for a place to call home after being returned to the St. Mary’s County Animal Adoption & Resource Center, prompting local animal advocates to rally support for her recovery and future.

According to a recent social media post from the Friends of St. Mary’s County Animal Shelter, Maple Syrup was previously adopted but has since returned to the shelter. Shelter supporters emphasized that the situation is not about assigning blame but rather finding the best path forward for the dog.

“I want to be very clear: This post is not meant to cast blame, criticize, or pass judgment on anyone,” the organization wrote. “Our only goal — our only focus — is keeping the hope alive for Maple Syrup.”

Adding to her challenges, Maple is currently undergoing treatment for heartworm disease, a condition that requires strict activity restrictions and a calm environment during recovery. Shelter officials say she urgently needs a quiet foster home or a committed adopter willing to provide patience, stability and reassurance while she completes treatment.

Heartworm disease is a potentially serious and sometimes fatal condition caused by parasitic worms spread through mosquito bites. Treatment often requires several months of restricted activity to prevent complications as the parasites are eliminated.

Advocates say Maple’s ideal home would provide a peaceful setting where she can rest, heal and rebuild trust.

“Because of her medical restrictions while on the treatment plan, she needs a hero who can offer patience, time and the constant reassurance that she will never be abandoned again,” the shelter’s supporters said.

Animal welfare organizations note that foster homes play a critical role in helping dogs recover from medical procedures and treatments, often providing a less stressful environment than a kennel setting. For dogs like Maple, temporary foster care can also help improve adoptability by allowing them to decompress and receive individualized attention.

The Friends of St. Mary’s County Animal Shelter are encouraging residents to share Maple Syrup’s story throughout the community in hopes of finding the right match.

“Please do not let Maple’s story end inside a shelter kennel,” the group wrote. “Let’s show Maple that her family is out there.”

Residents interested in fostering or adopting Maple Syrup are encouraged to contact St. Mary’s County Animal Services for additional information about her care needs and the adoption process.

Animal Adoption & Resource Center
22975 FDR Blvd.
California, MD 20619

Hours of Operation
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Noon to 6 p.m.
Wednesday: Noon to 6 p.m.
Thursday: Closed
Friday: Noon to 6 p.m.
Saturday: Noon to 4 p.m.
Sunday: Noon to 4 p.m.

Phone
Daytime: (301) 475-8018
After Hours: (301) 475-8016

---