Sonic’s Heartbreaking Return to the Shelter…and the Unexpected Miracle That Followed

Join animal advocate Rocky Kanaka on a heartfelt and authentic journey as he visits scared and lonely shelter dogs, armed with nothing but his iPhone and a deep desire to provide comfort and hope. In this unpretentious series, Rocky quietly sits with these homeless dogs, capturing their stories and unique personalities. Through the simplicity of his approach, he aims to shed light on the challenges they face and help them find loving homes. Experience the power of genuine connection and the transformative impact it can have on both humans and animals in this sincere exploration of companionship and second chances.

Sonic’s Second Chance: A Tale of Hope and Resilience

In the bustling world of animal shelters, stories of hope and heartbreak often intertwine. Such is the tale of Sonic, a spirited Malamute who experienced the highs and lows of adoption.

Originally named Ramna, the Malamute was adopted, only to be returned shortly after. The emotional toll of such an event is not lost on those who care for these animals. The uncertainty and confusion that dogs like Sonic face when returned can be heart-wrenching. Yet, in the midst of this sadness, there was a glimmer of hope. The team decided to rename him Sonic, a name that resonated with vibrancy and energy.

Upon revisiting Sonic, it was evident that the bond between the dog and his caregivers was profound. The joy of reuniting, even under such circumstances, was palpable. Sonic, with his playful demeanor and affectionate nature, was quick to welcome visitors, showcasing his resilience and unwavering spirit.

However, the journey of adoption is not always straightforward. Many potential adopters are unaware of the time and patience required to truly integrate a new pet into their lives. The “three, three, three” rule is a testament to this. It suggests that the first three days are for decompression, the next three weeks for understanding routines, and the final three months for settling in completely.

Sonic’s story highlights the importance of giving pets ample time to adjust. Just as humans need time to acclimate to new environments, so do our furry companions. The initial days can be overwhelming, but with time, trust, and understanding, a lasting bond can be forged.

As Sonic’s story unfolded, a beacon of hope emerged. A volunteer at the shelter expressed interest in adopting him. The reason for Sonic’s return became clear: the potential adopter’s existing pet wasn’t spayed, and they wanted to ensure no unplanned puppies would result from the union. With this hurdle identified, the path to Sonic’s forever home became clearer.

Cynthia, the volunteer, had previously owned a Malamute and was familiar with the breed’s quirks and charms. Her connection with Sonic was immediate, and it was evident that this was the match Sonic had been waiting for.

The day Sonic left the shelter with Cynthia was filled with emotion. The joy of finding his forever home was coupled with the gratitude for the shelter’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the well-being of their animals.

Related Articles


Emma: The Rottweiler with a Heart of Gold

Emma is a 6 ½ year old female Rottweiler who came into the shelter because a good samaritan found her running around dangerously near an airport.

After safely arriving at the shelter, no owner was found, and she was added to the dog walking program at the shelter where she is able to take a break from her kennel and interact with volunteers. However, nothing replaces the love that can be found at a forever home! Now, she waits for a new family to come along, and despite her initial aloof demeanor, Emma just needs some time to blossom.

Related Articles


Chiquita: The Great Pyrenees with a Resilient Spirit

In the midst of the shelter’s hustle and bustle, a Great Pyrenees named Chiquita stood out, her presence demanding attention. As one approached her kennel, her frailty became evident, a stark contrast to the majestic breed she represents. Chiquita’s eyes told a story of neglect and sorrow, hinting at a past filled with hardships. It was believed that she was used primarily for breeding, a fate many of her kind unfortunately face. These majestic dogs, while beautiful, require specific care, including ample space and regular walks, which many breeders overlook in their pursuit of profit.

Animal control had brought Chiquita in after a welfare check, a process initiated when concerns arise about a pet’s well-being. In Chiquita’s case, it was suspected that she was a victim of backyard breeding, evident from her malnourished state, unfamiliarity with treats, and evident signs of multiple pregnancies. Despite her past, Chiquita’s spirit remained unbroken. A simple treat, likely a rarity in her previous life, brought out a hesitant wag of her tail, showcasing her trust and hope for a better future.

The silver lining in Chiquita’s story came in the form of a sticker indicating a temporary hold on her. This sign hinted at the possibility of a brighter future, one where she would be cherished and cared for. Chiquita’s journey serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of animals and the transformative power of love and care.

Related Articles


Join Rocky’s Pack

Rocky's Pack

By joining Rocky’s community, you’re not just signing up for updates—you’re supporting a fantastic cause. Every member helps Rocky in his mission to give dogs like Redford a second chance. Plus, it’s a great space to connect with fellow dog enthusiasts, share stories, and stay in the loop with the latest rescue tales by offering insights into the rescue process and even giving members first dibs on exciting updates, like Redford’s DNA results. And let’s not forget the added bonus: members get discounts on products. So, come on in, make a difference, and enjoy some perks along the way! Join on YouTube Join on Facebook


Peter: The Resilient Brussels Griffon Mix with a Tale of Hope

Amidst the many residents of the shelter, a 3 ½-year-old male Brussels Griffon mix named Peter stood out, capturing hearts with his unmistakable underbite and pronounced lip. Found running stray by Animal Control, Peter’s journey to the shelter was not a straightforward one.

When the phone number linked to his collar’s microchip was dialed, a heart-wrenching story unfolded. Peter’s original owner had tragically passed away leaving him in the care of individuals who, unfortunately, didn’t know or value his name, referring to him simply as “Little White Dog.” This lack of identity was only a fragment of Peter’s ordeal. Signs of physical distress marked his body, hinting at possible confrontations with wildlife while fending for himself.

Despite the adversities he faced, Peter’s spirit remained unbroken. His skittish demeanor was punctuated by moments of trust, especially when offered treats or gentle pets. Cheryl, a shelter worker, shared insights into his past, revealing that Peter might have been cherished by his original owner. However, her untimely demise left him without a succession plan, causing him to bounce between indifferent caregivers.

Kim, another shelter employee, expressed potential interest in adopting Peter, highlighting his endearing personality and distinctive features, especially his “snaggle tooth.” While no decisions were finalized, the conversations around Peter were filled with hope and optimism. The little Brussels Griffon mix, who had faced so much adversity, seemed to be on the cusp of a brighter future, proving that every cloud has a silver lining.

Related Articles


Champ: The Boxer with Boundless Energy and a Heart of Gold

Amidst the hustle and bustle of the shelter, a 2 ½ year old male Boxer named Champ stood out, not just for his infectious energy but also for the story that brought him there. Found wandering near a golf club by a good samaritan, Champ was safely ushered into the care of Animal Friends of the Valleys. While the shelter managed to get in touch with his owners, days passed without them coming to claim this vivacious canine.

As someone deeply involved in dog rescue, I always strive to showcase the brighter side of these stories. Meeting Champ, however, was a bittersweet experience. Having recently lost my own boxer, Flip, I approached Champ with a heavy heart, expecting our interaction to be an emotional one. But Champ, with his boundless energy and playful demeanor, had other plans. Instead of a somber sit-down, he insisted on a lively play session, reminding me why boxers are among my favorite breeds. Their unique blend of goofiness, loyalty, strength, and courage is truly unparalleled.

Taking Champ out to the yard seemed like the best way to channel his energy. Watching him play, his joyful expressions were a testament to the resilient spirit of dogs. Yet, a pang of sadness hit me when I learned that despite being aware of his whereabouts, Champ’s family hadn’t come to reclaim him. It’s hard to fathom how anyone could leave such a gem behind.

In the sweltering heat, we had to ensure Champ’s safety, especially given his short snout, which makes him more susceptible to heat-related issues. As our play session concluded, I couldn’t help but hope that Champ would soon find a family that truly appreciates his zest for life and unwavering loyalty.

Related Articles

I’m a pet rescue advocate, Emmy-nominated host and creator of my own show. My passion is sharing stories about... More about Rocky Kanaka

Clothing for Dog Lovers

Easily Distracted by Dogs?

Kobe Inspire (he's my blind dog)

My Dog Is My Happy Place

Aloha Ciao Woof Hello

More About: