St. Nicholas - Mastiff and Pit Bull Terrier Dog for Adoption in Yakima, Washington

Meet St. Nicholas, a four-year-old Pit/Mastiff mix weighing 72 pounds.

St. Nickolas has quite the story to tell, and despite everything he's been through, he remains one of the happiest, friendliest dogs you'll ever meet.

He earned his name after being found in a field with a face full of porcupine quills. The quills gave him the appearance of having a white beard, making him look a bit like Santa Claus himself. Sadly, his situation was far from festive. St. Nickolas had been surviving on his own for weeks, slowly losing weight and unable to eat properly because of the painful quills embedded in his face. Thankfully, a caring worker finally brought him to us so he could get the help he desperately needed.

Our veterinary team was able to remove the majority of the quills, and St. Nickolas has been recovering wonderfully. Some broken quills remain and are still working their way out, but he is feeling better every day. He also needs to gain quite a bit of weight, something that will come with time, good nutrition, and a loving home.

What amazes everyone is that through all of his discomfort and hardship, St. Nickolas has never stopped being friendly. He is active, outgoing, and eager to greet every person, dog, and new experience that comes his way. In fact, his enthusiasm for saying hello to anyone and anything is probably what got him into trouble with that porcupine in the first place.

This goofy, lovable boy has a permanently docked tail, but he makes up for it with a whole-body wag whenever he's excited—which is often. He approaches life with optimism, curiosity, and a sense of humor that is impossible not to love.

St. Nickolas is looking for a family that can continue supporting his recovery while appreciating the joyful, resilient dog he is. He has already overcome so much, and now he's ready for the happy ending he deserves.

If you're looking for a friendly goober with a big personality, an even bigger heart, and a story of resilience, St. Nickolas is ready to meet you.

This pet is available for adoption on 6/12/2026 2:27 PM at the Yakima Humane Society adoption center. If you recognize this animal please contact the adoption center at 509-457-6854.

Did you know YHS offers a "Play Date" program?
Whether you are interested in adopting or just want to hang out with a furry friend, it's a fun way to spend an hour, an afternoon or even a couple days. Stop by the front desk or call in and ask how to have your Play Date today.

Ready to adopt? Great news-our spayed/neutered pets are available to go home the same day! You can visit us in person, give us a call, or apply online-whatever works best for you. Your adoption fee includes: A lovable new companion, spay/neuter surgery, vaccinations + deworming, flea/tick treatment, rabies vaccine (for pets 3-4 months and older), and microchip with nationwide registration.

For online adoptions please fill out our quick adoption questionnaire here: https://yakimahumane.org/adopt/apply/
Questions? We'd love to hear from you! Email us at adoption@yakimahumane.org, call us, or just stop by.

Let's help you meet your new best friend!

The Mastiff, a large and powerful breed with a history dating back to ancient times, is known for its gentle and loyal nature. These dogs are devoted family companions, often forming strong bonds with their owners. Despite their imposing size, Mastiffs are typically calm and patient, making them excellent protectors and watchdogs. With a distinctive wrinkled face and a massive build, Mastiffs require proper training and socialization to thrive in various environments.

The Pit Bull Terrier is a resilient and loyal breed known for its muscular build and loving nature. Originally bred for bull baiting and later dog fighting, Pit Bulls today are beloved family pets cherished for their gentle temperament and playful personality. With proper training and socialization, Pit Bull Terriers make affectionate companions that thrive on human interaction. Recognized for their strength and agility, these dogs require regular exercise and mental stimulation to channel their energy positively, reinforcing their reputation as devoted and trainable pets.

The Yakima Humane Society is committed to ending animal suffering and cruelty, reducing animal overpopulation, and educating the public regarding...