Rocco, Home for the Howlidays
Some dogs have more challenges to overcome than others. Meet Rocco. Not only was he born a black Pit Bull mix, but his life circumstances led him on a challenging journey including landing at the Seattle Animal Shelter (SAS) twice. Initially arriving as a stray in late 2022, he was unfortunately returned in 2023 due to landlord restrictions forcing his adopter to give him up.
Back at the shelter, Rocco was overwhelmed. Cowering in his kennel, quiet and still, he gave visitors a nervous stare and required experience handling to be taken out for the daily walks provided to all dogs at the shelter.
Shelter staff doesn’t give up easily and had Hope and a plan for Rocco. That’s hope with a capital H, as in Tina Hope, the SAS Behaviorist! A staff position made possible by generous donations to the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation (SASF). Over the next two and a half months, Tina and team worked tirelessly to ease Rocco’s sensitivities and reactivity, providing him with relaxing moments in the outside dog corral (construction funded by SASF) and in staff offices.
As Rocco’s behavior improved, Tina coordinated with the SAS’s Foster Program Coordinator Sagan (another position funded entirely by SASF donations), to expand their foster home recruitment outreach to more volunteers. They found a match! Megan, a regular SAS dog walking volunteer, offered Rocco a short-term foster home.
Once home with Megan, Rocco’s transformation was remarkable. Megan shared updates of Rocco’s calm demeanor, playful antics, and his newfound love for cuddles. Despite his past challenges, Rocco’s stress melted away in foster care, and he seamlessly adapted to Megan’s active lifestyle.
Megan continued to be supported by SASF-funded resources and classes, addressing Rocco’s reactivity, and turning their morning hikes into a delightful routine. Short-term turned into long-term, and finally Megan decided she couldn’t bear to part with Rocco and adopted him!
She sent a lovely card to SAS to celebrate the good news:
Rocco’s incredible journey highlights the transformative impact of love, patience, and dedicated support – made possible by your donations to SASF and the wonderful team of staff and volunteers at the Seattle Animal Shelter.
Now is the perfect time to make a meaningful impact and support Seattle’s animals in need. By donating to a 501c3 nonprofit like the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation before year’s end, you not only help create positive change for pets like Rocco, but you may benefit from a tax deduction when filing your 2023 taxes. Thank you for your support!