Rafa - Great Pyrenees and Rhodesian Ridgeback Dog for Adoption in Gainesville, Virginia

And then there was one...

Some people might feel bad for me since I am the very last puppy left in my litter, but if you ask me, they just saved the best for last!

My name is Rafa.
I am currently about 3 months old and 22 pounds, which means I am going to be a big, lovable guy when I am fully grown. One of my siblings actually just got a DNA test done, and nobody was surprised when it came back as a mix of German Shepherd, Great Pyrenees, and Rhodesian Ridgeback!

That DNA mix explains my coolest feature: I have a unique ridge of hair running right down my back that grows in the opposite direction of the rest of my coat. Fun fact about my ridge: it is an incredibly rare genetic trait shared by only three breeds in the entire world! Some old-school dog breeders have a romantic saying that the ridge is actually "where God sewed them up after stuffing them with love." On me, it just looks like a permanent, dashing mohawk!

Aside from being uniquely handsome, I am an amazing puppy. Because I have been staying in a foster home, I already know how to behave in a house. I am completely crate trained and do not have accidents when walked on a regular schedule. I even sleep through the night without needing any late-night potty breaks!

I am smart, have great manners, and have already mastered the "sit" command. Since I am highly food-motivated, teaching me new things will be a breeze. I am also a total sweetheart—I am wonderful with kids, love other dogs, and did great when I met a cat. With continued socialization, I'd do just fine in a home with a feline friend.

Because I already have the basics down, I would be the perfect match for a first-time puppy family. I am just waiting for the right home to come along and shower me with love!

If you are interested in adopting Rafa, please complete an application below. This is the first step, and we do not schedule meet and greets without an approved application.

https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/PDAR/Dog

Rafa’s adoption fee is $550, which helps cover routine veterinary care, vaccinations, deworming, microchipping, and transportation. We also partner with VCA Animal Hospitals to provide adopters with a complimentary initial wellness exam.

His adoption fee does not include neutering. Adopters are required to sign a legally binding spay/neuter contract agreeing to have Rafa neutered when age-appropriate, typically around 6 months unless otherwise advised by a veterinarian. Once proof of neutering is provided, the rescue will refund $100 of the adoption fee.

Most of our adoptable dogs come from overcrowded shelters or are rescued directly from the streets of South Texas. As a nonprofit rescue, 100% of adoption fee proceeds go back into caring for our animals, including those requiring extensive medical care that far exceeds their adoption fees. Every adoption helps us save more lives!

Cowabunga! Rafa’s ready for his happily ever after!

The Great Pyrenees is a majestic and noble breed known for its gentle demeanor and steadfast loyalty. Originating from the Pyrenees Mountains, these large and dignified dogs are renowned for their protective instincts and ability to work as livestock guardians. With their stunning white coats and imposing stature, Great Pyrenees exude an air of regal confidence while also possessing a gentle and affectionate nature towards their families. Their calm and composed demeanor coupled with their innate guardian instincts make them excellent companions for those seeking a devoted and majestic canine friend.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback, originally from Southern Africa, is a breed known for its distinctive ridge of hair along its back that grows in the opposite direction of the rest of its coat. This intelligent and loyal dog is a versatile hunter, originally bred to track and contain lions. With a strong and muscular build, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is also a loving and devoted family companion, displaying affection and protectiveness towards its loved ones.

The purpose of Paws Deep Animal Rescue is to: 1. To help animals who are in danger of euthanasia in...