Meet Doc Ricketts. Named after Ed Ricketts, our local, brilliant and compassionate marine biologist who inspired characters in John Steinbeck's stories. 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. Though his brother was even more severely matted, Doc himself is struggling. His small body was weak, his coat painfully tangled, and his eyes clouded with discharge and fatigue. He looks like a dog who has known far too little kindness in his life. There's a heaviness to him -- a quiet sadness that tells a story we may never fully know. But just like the tide always turns, we believe Doc Ricketts' story is soon to change.

Beneath the neglect is a gentle, deserving soul who is still holding on. Still soft. Still kind. Still waiting. With the right care, patience and love, we know he will begin to heal, not just physically, but emotionally. And when he does, it's going to be nothing short of transformative.

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.