Featured Pet: Smiley

UKIAH, CA., 10/20/26 — Our hard-luck boy is hoping for a second chance. Smiley first came to the shelter in December 2025, severely malnourished and weighing just 34 pounds. He immediately went into the care of our dedicated team, who worked hard to get him healthy and ready for a new life. Even so, it would be another 7 months before Smiley got his first chance at a home. In July 2026, Smiley was adopted by a family who quickly fell in love with him. He initially settled into the home beautifully, but unfortunately, some issues soon developed between Smiley and the family’s other dog. After evaluation with a behaviorist, we discovered that Smiley is deaf, and because he cannot hear what’s happening around him, he can be easily startled when he’s sleeping or otherwise unaware of his surroundings. When the resident dog would approach him unexpectedly to play, Smiley sometimes reacted poorly to the surprise. His family was heartbroken but ultimately made the difficult decision to return Smiley to the shelter in hopes of finding him a home where he can truly thrive. We believe Smiley would do best as the only dog in the home and in an environment that is calm, predictable and allows him to feel secure. And in every other respect, Smiley SHINES! He’s wonderful with people, friendly, playful, and—true to his name—always smiling! This special boy has already overcome so much. All he needs now is someone willing to understand him, give him the environment he needs, and show him that his second chance can be the one that lasts forever. Smiley is a neutered Dogo mix, 3 years old and 55 pounds. There’s more about this wonderful guy here.

Learn all our adoptable pets, including cats, dogs and horses, and how you can visit them at mendoanimalshelter.com or by calling (707) 467-6453. You can begin the adoption process by filling out an adoption application online. Making a difference for homeless pets in Mendocino County, one day at a time!