At the APS of Orange County we have two treasure hunters, and each week they go to surrounding county-owned shelters and bring back animals that someone didn't want. The animals are given a second chance at a good life while the shelters are able to reduce some of the overcrowding that is common in county shelters.

We spay or neuter these animals, give them their shots, clean them up and give them a microchip. We shower them with love and understanding until they are adopted by people looking for treasure. We have uncovered many jewels in all our many years working to save as many homeless animals as possible.

Kim and Theresa never know what they will encounter each week as they set out for shelters in Orange County or Caswell County, as well as others. They find goofy dogs whose parentage has made for an interesting mix and they find purebred dogs as well. They find gorgeous cats, highly sought after breeds and everything in between.

They are all diamonds in the rough just waiting for a routine, some love, the basics of food, water, shelter and medical care, and maybe some fun in their lives. Our animals have gone on to make wonderful pets, therapy dogs, AKC Canine Good Citizens, agility stars, and we even had a dog who is now doing drug-detection work. All it takes is a little patience and understanding, a second chance and some devoted people, and a bit of undiscovered treasure.