Meet Doc Ricketts. Named after Ed Ricketts, our brilliant and compassionate local marine biologist who inspired characters in the stories of John Steinbeck. Like his namesake, there's something deeply soulful about our boy Ricketts.

Doc Ricketts was found as a stray alongside his brother, both in heartbreaking condition. His small body was weak, his coat painfully tangled, and his eyes clouded with discharge and fatigue. He looked like a dog who had known far too little kindness in his life.

Despite what he has been through, Doc Ricketts absolutely loves people, dogs, and even cats. He greets everyone with quiet sweetness and has shown himself to be wonderfully social and accepting. Though he appears to be nearly blind and occasionally bumps into things or struggles with stairs until he adjusts, he truly enjoys going on walks and exploring the outdoors.

Doc Ricketts' ideal home would be with someone patient and compassionate who understands the needs of a visually impaired senior dog. He needs a family willing to help him navigate the world, keep him engaged, and most importantly, remind him every single day that he is loved. After a difficult life, this sweet boy deserves nothing less than comfort, kindness, and a cozy place to call his forever home.

Dear Doc Ricketts joined us from Hitchcock Road Animal Services after being brought to the shelter as a stray. Due to his neglected state, they felt he would do best in the arms of a foster home and rescue to support his needs.