RIVER

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Video: River fetching.

Video: River sitting for treate.

Video: River meeting a female dog.






River, 1 yo,  53lb neutered male black lab mix is available for adoption

Background: River was found as a stray in Antioch. 

What River's Rescue Rep/Evaluator Says: River is a good looking, young black Lab mix with a friendly personality and lots of enthusiasm. At just around one year old, he's still very much a puppy at heart and is looking for an active family ready to help him continue learning and growing.

At the shelter, River has earned a reputation as a well-behaved resident. He keeps his kennel clean, leaves his bedding alone, and enjoys spending time with people. He happily accepts affection and attention, allowing gentle handling of his ears, paws, and mouth with ease. He also shows no signs of food or toy guarding.

River is a social dog who is very interested in other dogs. On walks, he may bark or pull when he sees a canine friend because he's eager to meet them. Shelter staff report that he has done well interacting with other dogs, often greeting them with playful enthusiasm and offering play bows through the fence. During formal dog-to-dog introductions, he was excited and energetic but showed no signs of aggression.

Like many young Labs, River loves to play. He enjoys racing around the yard doing zoomies, chasing tennis balls, and engaging in games of fetch. He takes treats gently and already knows how to sit politely before receiving a reward.

River's leash manners are generally good, though he will benefit from continued training to help him stay focused when distractions—especially other dogs—are nearby. Because he can be jumpy and occasionally mouthy when excited, he would be best suited for a home with older children who can comfortably handle his youthful exuberance.

River is looking for a family that can provide regular exercise, continued training, and plenty of opportunities for fun and companionship. A secure yard where he can run and play would be ideal. He may also enjoy having a calm, well-mannered canine companion to help show him the ropes.

With structure, activity, and love, River has all the makings of a wonderful family companion and adventure partner.

Medical: River appears healthy, has been neutered, chipped and is up to date on vaccines. 

Located In: Santa Cruz.

If you are interested in River, please email Rescue Rep Kathy at ksmillich@gmail.com In your email, please tell me about yourself and why you would be a good fit for River.

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Our volunteers donate their personal time phones so please only call during reasonable hours (8am - 8pm). The Rescue Rep identified in the dog posting is the only person with information about the dog - please only contact the designated volunteer. We do call everyone back within 2-3 days so please be patient. We work very hard to make the right matches for the dogs and for the new owners. We get 3-5 dogs per week; we do not have a facility where the dogs are housed, they are in foster homes throughout the Bay Area.