Letter-writing campaign meant to find a home for dog that’s been at the shelter for nearly 10 months

Mission Viejo Animal Services Center volunteers have been writing letters of recommendation on behalf of a young dog who has been at the shelter for 239 days in the hopes he might find a home for the holidays.

Porter is a handsome 1-year-old German Shepherd mix that is always ready for his next adventure. Although he is a mixed breed, he possesses German Shepherd traits like intelligence, confidence, and courage.

Shelter staff and volunteers have no idea why Porter has been overlooked and are heartbroken this sweet dog has been at the shelter since April 9. They are hoping their efforts will get Porter a forever home. Jake Sletcha penned the following:

Meet my buddy, Porter. He is the most awesome Shepherd. I’ve known Porter for a few months, and we are really good pals. Sunday mornings when I come in to hang with the puppies, he is the first one I visit. He’s bouncing around his kennel like a 5-year-old on Christmas morning. Porter has a lot of energy, but he is also mature and knows when it’s time to relax and lay on my lap; yes, he is a lap dog. Porter is highly intelligent and would do best with someone who has space and commitment. Porter is great on the leash and with consistent training, he would far exceed expectations. Basically, he just wants/needs love and attention. I’ve been around this breed of dog for almost 20 years, and he is hands down one of the best mannered I’ve met.

Volunteer Russ Mandell agrees:

Porter is currently my favorite dog at MVAS. Porter is a big, handsome, energetic, happy boy despite being cooped up in a kennel for over 7 months. Porter is always excited to see me and others that approach his kennel. Maybe too excited at times which causes some to walk away thinking he’s too wild. Once he’s out of the kennel for just a few minutes he’s super friendly and affectionate. Porter loves to play fetch in the play yard before we go on a long walk followed by him laying down relaxing next to me. I think Porter's favorite thing is napping in the back seat of my car while I have my lunch. This is my favorite activity as well as Porter appears to be so content and serene. I hope one day soon Porter can experience this type of serenity several hours a day instead of a few minutes a day. Thank You for your consideration of Porter. 

See other heartfelt letters of recommendation at this link.

Porter would love a human companion and shows great interest in other dogs. He will go home with an approved applicant for $20 and a training package paid for by DAWG. If you can open your heart and home to Porter, contact 949-370-3045.