Deborah's Shelter Slumber Pawty Fundraiser for CAC

Hello! I’m Deborah Tung, and my journey with Cincinnati Animal CARE began in the spring of 2021, when I moved here with my dog, a stuffed Subaru, and a desire for a change of scenery. I had no idea at the time that this move would become my first step into the world of animal welfare and shelter dog behavior

me and my dog, Prim, unpacking in Cincinnati 

I started in the Behavior and Training program, providing foster and adoption support, building out a resource library, and working closely with our “behavior dog” population. These dogs showed me what it truly means to advocate—and how compassion and kindness can transform a dog’s future. And helping them process the "big zoomies". 

a normal "day in the life" on the behavior team!

One of these dogs I worked with was Bradley. He had been dumped at the shelter, tied to a fence—alone, scared, and defensive. With patience, a soft bed, and plenty of treats, he slowly began to open up, learning to trust and experience love. Just a few weeks later, Bradley was ready for foster and ultimately found his forever home that same summer.

Bradley on his adoption day!

Since then, the Behavior and Training team has helped thousands of dogs like Bradley find homes by giving them the individualized care they need. From rowdy playgroups to quiet office decompression time to a refreshing pupsicle in the summer, our team continues to show up every day for Cincinnati’s stray and homeless dogs. One of those dogs, Rigby, even found his way into my own home in 2024.

Rigby, fostered and adopted in 2024.

Now, five years later, as the leader of the Behavior and Training department, I can’t imagine being anywhere else. I’m excited to take part in the first Slumber Pawty at Cincinnati Animal CARE, Hamilton County’s animal shelter. Your support in my campaign will help us care for more than 9,000 animals this year and give them the second chance they deserve. 

Archibald, adopted 2024!