Rusty loves a quick morning zoom around, followed by lazing the day away in bed. Could he be your new best friend? Photo: RSPCA Illawarra.
A rhodesian ridgeback holds the sad title of being the RSPCA’s longest dog in care.
Despite being a bona fide “cool dude”, six-year-old Rusty has spent more than a year in care with the Illawarra RSPCA branch.
Janelle Kalkan, Illawarra shelter supervisor, said Rusty was surrendered after his owners were no longer able to care for him.
Despite the upheaval in his life, Rusty quickly adapted to the shelter.
Janelle said that adaptability was characteristic of him.
“He’s just a cool dude, a really easygoing dog,” she said.
“He’s a favourite of anyone who works with him; he loves his people but he’s happy to chill out on his own bed.
“Nothing seems to phase him; he’s not sensitive to noise, he doesn’t mind storms, he’s happy to be outside or inside.
“A lot of dogs we get here are quite challenging, but we haven’t had a single problem with him.”
Rusty has waited more than 460 days to find his forever home.
According to the RSPCA, large dogs do typically spend longer in care, with their average length of stay increasing to 60 days last year.
Rusty has gone well beyond that however, and they’re putting out a plea for this sweet boy to find the home he deserves.
Janelle said Rusty’s main passions in life were treats, likimats, toys and hanging out.
Rusty is good with other dogs, but this gentle giant has a particular soft spot for puppies and small dogs.
“He’s happy to meet any dog, but he does particularly like puppies,” Janelle said.
“We’ve been able to let him run with them when we have some in.
“He has been around children before and has no issues with them either, although we advise a home with children aged more than six due to his size.”
Rusty’s ideal home is one where he gets to have a bit of exercise in the morning and then laze the day away.
He would adapt well to any lifestyle, and enjoys a nice pat, a cuddle, or just hanging out with his human.
“He loves to have a bit of a run around then lay down in the sun and relax most of the day,” Janelle said.
“He’s happy to watch the world go by, keep you company or go for a walk.”
Rusty’s new family will need some experience with large breed dogs.
Don’t let his white face fool you – Rusty has only recently turned six, and still has lots of life and love to give.
If you think you could give Rusty the home he deserves, call the RSPCA Illawarra shelter on 4271 3410 or head in to visit him at 54 Industrial Rd, Unanderra.
Opening hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 3:30 pm. Closed Mondays and public holidays.
