Returned After Just One Week—This 12 lb Spaniel Mix “Rocket” Is Now Racing Toward His Second Chance at Love

Rocket’s story starts with hope—he was adopted in San Bernardino as a tiny 1-year-old spaniel mix. But just a week later, he was returned for kennel cough, a setback that sadly put him at immediate risk in the shelter system.

Before things could take a worse turn, Angels of Rawley Foundation stepped in and saved him.

Now Rocket is safe… but still waiting for the one thing he hasn’t had yet: a stable forever home.

Why Rocket Feels So Special

🐾 1-year-old long-haired Spaniel mix
⚖️ Small and scruffy at just 12 lbs
💛 Affectionate “lap lovebug” once he trusts you
🐶 Friendly with other dogs when properly introduced
🏡 Loves companionship and being near his people
🎯 Playful, curious, and ready for adventure

His Personality

Rocket is a sensitive little soul who bonds deeply once he feels safe. New people and unfamiliar situations can make him nervous, and on leash he may need a confident handler to help him feel grounded. But underneath that initial caution is a dog who just wants to belong.

Give him time, structure, and kindness—and he transforms into what his foster lovingly calls a “total lap lovebug.”

He enjoys walks, loves having dog companions, and is happiest when he can simply be near his people, whether that’s on an adventure or curled up at home.

🐾 Initially cautious but warms up quickly
🐾 Loyal and people-oriented
🐾 Can be vocal when left alone (needs structure)
🐾 Enjoys dog companionship
🐾 Sweet, affectionate, and emotionally bonded

The Right-Fit Sweet Spot

Rocket will thrive in a calm, structured home that understands sensitive dogs. He’s best suited for adults who can provide steady guidance and help him build confidence over time.

A home with another confident dog could really help him feel secure and settled.

What He’s Looking For

✔️ Adult-only home
✔️ Experienced adopter familiar with sensitive or reactive dogs
✔️ Stable, structured environment (preferably a house, not an apartment)
✔️ Possibly a friendly resident dog for companionship
✔️ Patient humans who will let trust grow at his pace

Adoption Details

🐶 Name: Rocket
🎂 Age: 1 year old
⚖️ Weight: 12 lbs
💰 Adoption Fee: $575
📍 Arriving to foster care in the greater Seattle area
🌐 Apply: www.doggoneseattle.org/adoption-application

Heart of Rocket

Rocket has already been returned once before he even had a chance to settle.

But he hasn’t given up.

He’s still that soft, hopeful little dog—just waiting for someone to finally say, you’re safe now, you can stay. 🐾💔

Rocky Kanaka