Zamboni

My story

Every evening, as her shift winds down, one of our caregivers, Erica, makes a special stop. She heads into Zamboni’s kennel, where this big brown bear of a dog is waiting for her. He knows the routine now — his whole body lights up with excitement when she comes in. At first, he does a little happy dance, thrilled just to have someone there. Then, once she settles on his bed, he lowers his head into her lap, leans all his weight against her, and sighs with relief. For a moment, the shelter melts away, and it’s just Zamboni being what he truly is: a big baby who longs to be close.Zamboni is four years old, big and statuesque with a robust frame, giant paws, a long stout muzzle, and a thick double coat of rich chocolate fur. He’s as striking to look at as he is sweet to know. Despite his size, he’s a gentle soul — taking treats with feather-light care, leaning against people for affection, and sometimes just sitting with a toy hanging from his mouth, perfectly content.A game of fetch with a tennis ball makes him light up with joy, though human affection is still his favorite. He will lean into you, nudge your hand if you pause in petting — first with his nose, then sometimes with a gentle paw to ask for more.On walks, Zamboni has moments of excitement, as many dogs do. If a squirrel dashes by, a cyclist zooms past or another dog barks at him, he may want to pull toward the action. Given his size, it can take some management, yet he shows an eagerness to please: he listens, redirects, and looks to people for guidance. With the right tools, patience, and consistency, he will continue to improve.Zamboni will thrive in a home without cats or small animals, where he can be someone’s loyal companion and oversized snuggle bear.He has been patient, resilient, and steady during his long stay. More than anything, Zamboni is ready to trade the noise of shelter life for the quiet of a real home, where his biggest job will be filling the couch (or fine, his dog bed) — and your home — with love. Zamboni is eligible for an Adoption Audition! What is an Adoption Audition? It`s a 5-day, no-strings-attached, trial adoption period. You can take him home for a few days. Interested? Come to the shelter any time during open hours and talk to one of our Customer Care staff!Be sure to check the `shelter information` box on the listing to see if the pet is located at our Fairfax Campus (4500 West Ox Road, Fairfax) or our Lorton

If you have any questions or would like to adopt Zamboni, please reach out to the adoption group directly. PetSmart Charities does not facilitate the adoption process. Thank you.