It’s been two weeks since I last volunteered at the shelter.

During my break, I spent some much-needed time with a dear friend who flew in from Germany to visit, it was soooo wonderful catching up and reminiscing.

My return was met with gloomy gray clouds, misty showers, and a biting chill, that made the temperature feel like 34 degree.

Honestly, I would have much rather stayed wrapped up in the warmth of my comforter but adorable dogs called.

When I arrived at the shelter and stepped into the gear area, shock hit me.

It was completely empty. 

No leashes, no collars, not even a single treat in sight. 

Just as I was about to panic, my walking buddy came to the rescue.

Miraculously finding one lone leash and collar. 

They handed it to me and mentioned they always keep their own set in their car, a smart move I’ll definitely have to copy.

Even though it had only been a couple of weeks, the shelter felt unfamiliar, almost like I was the new kid at school surrounded by a bunch of unfamiliar faces, except in this case, they were wagging tails and eager eyes.

At least somethings don’t change, my indecision on who to walk remains.

My buddy had their heart set on one pup.

But the staff let us know that particular dog didn’t get along well with others. 

Since we wanted to walk and chat together, they quickly picked another pup.

The boy they decided to walk has two names, Chris Cornell, so you know he’s extra special.

With one dog leashed up, it was my turn to find a walking buddy.

I wandered the halls, my indecision and anxiety increasing by the second with dogs lounging and barking at me through the window. 

This behavior doesn’t make for a great 1st impression or a willingness on my part to take them out for a walk.

I’m hesitant when it comes to entering a dog’s kennel, dogs are unpredictable, and I still remember the nip I got when I walked into John’s kennel.

After I walked the length of one hall, I went down the next row.

And that’s when I spotted the dog I’d walk.

A calm, soulful pup with a bohemian vibe and a long, fluffy coat that resembled a lion’s mane.

Meet Rasta.

She was incredibly docile when I stepped into her kennel. 

Wanting to ease her nerves, I approached slowly before slipping the collar around her thick fur, a task easier said than done! (Perfect timing for a leash shortage, right?)

Rasta is listed as a Siberian Husky mix.

She had just come off stray hold, meaning this was her first time outside the shelter walls since arriving.

(And yes, I know I said I wouldn’t take a chance on a newly released pup, but . . . okay, I don’t have a good excuse to explain myself.)

It didn’t take me long at all to realize why they named her Rasta . . .

With long fur comes the issues of matting and this poor girl has serious matting along her face that look like dreadlock-like tangles. 

Poor baby, I know with a good grooming session, this girl will be a 10 out of 10.

Finally, with my new 4 legged friend secured, I met up with my buddy who was waiting for me outside. 

I barely took five steps before I felt the leash vibrate in my hand.

Rasta was growling at Chris Cornell. 

That growl quickly escalated into a full-blown barking match.

I told my friend to keep walking ahead, hoping to put some distance between us.

But Chris Cornell kept glancing back, and each time he did, Rasta let out another low growl that built into sharp barks. 

It was clear Rasta wasn’t happy and honestly, neither was I.

“Let’s just walk separately,” I suggested. 

A stress-free walk was best for all paw-ties involved.

I stayed close to the shelter since I wasn’t sure how she’d react to other dogs along the way. 

Still, we covered a good distance, going back and forth so she could stretch her legs, sniff the fresh air, and explore a little.

Speaking of sniffing, Rasta was obsessed with my shoes! 

She kept burying her nose in them like they held the secrets of the universe. 

I couldn’t help but laugh.

I also had fun snapping pictures of her.

Her white paws look like tiny socks/shoes, adding to her already adorable personality. 

She has a soulful aura about her, and more than once, I caught myself staring at her, wondering what she was thinking about.

Here’s a short clip of Rasta deep in thought… about what, I wish I knew.

Even though the weather was blah and dreary, I still had a fantastic time walking one cool, laid-back dog.

Sit, Stay, Share – Let’s Howl!

Have you ever met a dog with a unique name or an unforgettable personality? 

Share your story in the comments!

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This adventure took place in early March, 2025

Update: A week later after my walk, I learned from a staff member that they did a dog test.

Rasta doesn’t like male dogs and she is so so when it comes to females