Update! I'm adopted!!!! My new family is wonderful and I've got three tennis balls, four blankets, a backyard, and lots of treats and toys of my very own. :)
I am Rocco, a one year old black lab/pit bull mix (the 18 years old at the left is for MySpace purposes since you can't sign up for an account as an infant!). I have been at the APS of Orange County for over a year now, which means I have grown up here since I was 2 months old! I am not upset though, because I am one of the lucky ones. Many pit bulls are euthanized right away at shelters because of their breed, and even those that aren't only get a week or so of time to find a home. The APS has faith in me and knows I'm a good boy!
So what makes me special? To be honest, I am not much different than your typical lab or pit bull (the closest guess to what my mix is) -- I'm a totally happy guy with lots of energy! I absolutely adore playing ball, and I walk like a pro when I'm on my Easy Walk harness.
Why am I passed over then? Several reasons, unfortunately. First, I have the unfortunate circumstance of being a big black dog. I was born with a silly eye that I just can't help, and when added to my black body and my pitty head, I can look menacing to some. Also, because there are so many animals in need here at the APS, I don't get all the attention I deserve. I know basic commands, but anything more advanced no one has had the time to teach me. I jump up a lot when first let out of my kennel, and sometimes I 'mouth' your limbs a bit. Notice, I am not biting you, I'm just trying to play and get your attention! I really have to make myself known since I get passed over time and time again. This is an unfortunate circumstance of getting unlimited time to find a forever family. I get let out daily to play with my friends in a fenced yard, but it's not the same as one-on-one time with a human.
What I need: A strong leader that will take me to obedience class; someone to exercise me by throwing a ball, or taking me on hikes on beautiful North Carolina trails (or possibly elsewhere); a person who will not judge me by looks or breed; someone who sees my potential as a loving companion.
Personality Plus: Despite not being socialized with small dogs (who knew I would be at the APS over a year?), I sometimes go on walks with a very fiesty chihuahua that belongs to a staff member! I respect his space when he gives me "the look" and would probably do fine in a household with small dogs or cats if introduced properly.
