Shelter’s Urgent Plea for Longest Resident Still Homeless After 4 Years
ENCINITAS, Calif. — For nearly four years, Tipperary has watched as dogs come and go, each finding a family while she remains behind. Now, as the longest resident of Rancho Coastal Humane Society, her wait has taken on a new urgency as—one that’s captured the hearts of an entire community.
In an extraordinary effort to find her a home, the shelter has honored Tipperary with a massive 8-foot mural along Interstate 5, ensuring that thousands of commuters see her face each day. The striking artwork serves as both a tribute and a call to action, reminding passersby of the countless overlooked shelter dogs still waiting for their chance.
In addition, she will have her very own exclusive adoption event, as shelter staff are determined to find her a home—especially since she first arrived at the shelter four years ago on St. Patrick’s Day. The event is Sunday March 16. Full details below.
She Arrived on St. Paddy’s Day
“Tipperary arrived on Saint Patrick’s Day in 2021,” said shelter president Judi Sanzo. She named Tipperary after a town in Ireland. After living three and half years at the shelter, Tippy as she’s called, is still searching for the ‘Luck of the Irish’ and a family to adopt her. Tippy is the shelter’s biggest underdog ever.
Tipperary’s Story: A Symbol of Patience and Hope
Tipperary arrived at the shelter as a frightened stray. While initially overwhelmed by shelter life, dedicated staff and volunteers have helped transform her into a confident, well-mannered companion. Despite her personal growth and newfound local fame, Tipperary continues to be overlooked by potential adopters.
“She’s become more than just a shelter dog—she’s a symbol of resilience,” said a shelter representative. The contrast between Tipperary’s larger-than-life roadside portrait and her simple wish for a family highlights the plight of long-term shelter residents nationwide.
Rocky Meets Tipperary!
Pet rescue advocate Rocky Kanaka was so moved by Tipperary’s story that he went to Encinitas to meet her in person. During his visit, Rocky spent quality time with Tipperary, showcasing her sweet personality and highlighting her plight to his substantial social media following. “Meeting Tipperary was truly special,” Rocky shared. “Her story represents thousands of overlooked shelter pets waiting for someone to see their true value. She deserves a loving home after waiting so patiently for all these years.”
Tipperary’s ideal home would be a quiet, stable environment with patient adopters willing to help her continue building confidence. As part of the shelter’s specialized Foster-to-Adopt Program, her future family will receive ongoing support from experienced trainers to ensure a smooth transition.
Well-mannered and outdoor-loving, Tipperary never jumps on furniture and particularly enjoys lizard-chasing adventures. After four years of waiting, shelter staff remain hopeful that the perfect match will finally see beyond her shelter status to the wonderful companion she has become.
Interested adopters can visit Rancho Coastal Humane Society in Encinitas, California to meet Tipperary and learn more about giving this “mural-worthy” dog the home she deserves.
