Most adopters usually pick the gentlest or cutest dogs at a shelter, but Laura and her husband followed a very different path.
Rusty was an aggressive stray, not the easiest dog to handle, yet there was something about him that made Laura fall head over heels immediately.
He reminded her of their late German Shepherd, Cane, and from that instant, they knew Rusty belonged with them.
Rusty’s Life As A Stray
Rusty isn’t like most German Shepherds. With floppy ears and a reddish coat, he had never known a real family. He was picked up as a stray and brought to a local shelter in Miami-Dade County, Florida.
Having just lost their beloved Cane, Laura and her husband weren’t sure anything could fill the void. Then, a friend working at the shelter sent them Rusty’s photo.
The resemblance to Cane was uncanny. From the first glimpse, they were certain Rusty was meant to join their family.
“We probably needed him as much as he needed us.”
Rusty Needed Time To Adjust
Initially, Rusty’s new life wasn’t easy. He had never lived with a family before, making him cautious around people. Laura and her husband knew patience was key.
They discovered Rusty had a fear of cars, a clear sign of his past life on the streets. With time, routines, and gentle guidance, Rusty began to feel at home.
“Once Rusty had a bedtime and a routine, he really got into his groove, and he stopped acting out and really started just loving more, and it was just amazing,” said Laura.
His Dad Becomes His Favorite Hooman
Even though Laura initiated the adoption, she quickly became the “third wheel.” Rusty bonded intensely with his new dad, shadowing him everywhere!
Watching Rusty, a large dog, curl up next to his dad is both funny and heartwarming. And the funniest part? He completely ignores his new mom!
Every night, Rusty goes to bed at 10 P.M. with his dad, snuggling closely. Their nightly routine is simply adorable.
Slayde, Rusty, And Their Feline Friends
Rusty shares his home with three other companions: a dog named Slayde and two cats, Logy and Lylu.
Together, they form a harmonious little family. While Rusty was reserved at first, this “Miami German Shepherd” has transformed into a loving, patient, and tolerant friend.
Still Learning And Growing
Rusty is still mastering new tricks! He works on fetching and enjoys playful backyard sessions with his dad, but with time, he’ll perfect everything.
Above all, he’s a devoted, affectionate boy who adores his mom, dad, and animal siblings, and the feeling is mutual.
“You are so loved. You don’t have to worry again. You are safe. You have a home. You have a place with people who love you.”
Follow Rusty’s adventures on Laura’s Instagram page and keep up with his latest antics!