Raina, STAR #2041

Hi there! My name’s Raina, and I’m a female, 9-month-old, 30lb, red merle Australian Shepherd with a heart as big as my wiggle butt! When I first came to STAR, I was scared of just about everything. But I’m learning fast that people are kind, routines are safe, and treats are amazing. I even braved my first bath and brushing after my spay surgery! It was weird and soapy and splashy, but with plenty of praise (and snacks), I decided it wasn’t so bad after all.

I live with three other dogs right now (a boy Aussie, a girl Aussie, and an older terrier mix) and I think they’re all the best playmates ever. I love to wrestle, chase, and zoom around the yard with the Aussies, and I’m gentle and polite with my senior terrier friend. I’m all puppy: curious, bouncy, and sometimes a little too helpful (especially if counter surfing counts as helping, right?). I don’t try to escape the yard, but I will try to sneak out the front door if someone forgets to watch me. Oh, and I really enjoy chasing the birds away from the feeders—so a home without chickens or feathered friends would be best.

I’m what they call a “Velcro dog”: I love to be close to my people. I’m working on crate training; I’ll go in for a treat and sleep quietly overnight as long as my crate is near you. I just feel safest when I can see or hear my humans. When you come home, I’ll greet you butt-first with the happiest wiggles and a full-body comma shape because, well, I’ve missed you so much! I’m also an expert snuggler and will happily curl up beside you for pets and cuddles.

I don’t guard my food, toys, or people. I’m way too happy to be greedy! I don’t always understand personal space (sometimes I just sit on my Aussie brother because why not?). I’ very smart: I already know “sit” and “shake” (I’m a proud lefty!), and I’m housetrained on a schedule. I’m clever, eager to please, and learning fast—praise and treats are my love language.

My perfect forever home would have another playful dog or two to help me burn off my zoomies and build confidence. I’d also do best with a person who’s home most of the time. I bond deeply and do best when I have steady companionship. A securely fenced yard to romp in is a must. With the right mix of playtime, love, and gentle guidance, I know I’ll blossom into the best companion you could ever ask for.

I’m spayed, microchipped, and ready to find my forever family! If you’re looking for a loyal, silly, snuggly girl with a big heart and even bigger wiggles, I’d love to be your Raina!

As a first step toward learning more about Raina and a possible meet/greet – please start with filling out an adoption application.  Here:  Introduction to the Adoption Process – South Texas Aussie Rescue

Raina is a red merle female and weighs 32lbs, we believe to be around 1 year old. She super energetic and running excitedly around her foster home. She was found out running on road in Pearland and the finder was not able to find the owner, nor did the dog have on a collar and was not chipped. If this is your dog, be prepared to show proof of ownership and cover our expenses to date. She’ll be fostered in New Waverly and pending vetting, may be available late October.