Rufus’ story was recently shared by @boroughbredinbrooklyn, an Instagram page run by shelter volunteers who regularly advocate for dogs staying at the Queens ACC shelter. Although the four-year-old pup lost the home he once knew, volunteers say he remains as loving and cheerful as ever while waiting for a fresh start.
Shelter dog found as stray is a ‘gentle giant’ who won’t stop smiling but still needs a home
The post introduced Rufus as a “gentle giant” and highlighted the qualities that have made him a favorite among staff and volunteers. One of the first things people notice about Rufus is his smile. Text featured in the video describes him as having “one of the funniest smiles a dog can have,” and clips show the large dog flashing a goofy grin while interacting with people. According to volunteers, that cheerful expression seems to match his personality perfectly.
While Rufus weighs around 72 pounds, he reportedly has little awareness of his size. A volunteer who spent time with him recalled that most of their interaction involved the dog climbing onto their lap and leaning against them for affection.
Rufus’ return to the shelter came under difficult circumstances. In May, police found him wandering on the street wearing a chain collar secured with a lock. At the time, shelter staff knew very little about where he had come from or how he had ended up alone.
Weeks later, however, his former guardian spotted him at the shelter and came forward with information about his past. They explained that they had rehomed Rufus only a few months earlier. Although they were unable to bring him back into their home, they left detailed notes about his life and personality, giving staff a better understanding of the dog in their care.
For now, Rufus continues to wait at Queens ACC, greeting visitors with his trademark smile and hopeful attitude. Volunteers hope it won’t be long before someone looks past his shelter kennel and gives him the second chance he deserves.
