Finding Fonzie’s Forever: The Dog Who Deserves a Second Chance

He helped other dogs get adopted—now it’s his turn to be chosen.

Are you looking to add a dog to your family? Have I got the guy for you.

Meet Fonzie—a 60-pound, big-hearted, goofy-sweet mixed-breed boy who’s about two years old and currently redefining what it means to be “a good dog just down on his luck.”

Fonzie wasn’t just another face behind a kennel door—he was the guy helping other dogs find their forever homes. At the shelter, he was a rockstar in playgroups. His gift? Reading the room (or the run, in this case). He helped staff figure out which dogs could handle a buddy and which ones weren’t ready. Every day, Fonzie did the work. No complaints. No tantrums. Just one quiet hope: Maybe today is my day.

But time ran out.

Fonzie needed help—and thanks to RAF of RafStar K9 and Project RuffStart, he got one more shot. A literal lifeline. A second chance. But here’s the thing—he still doesn’t have a home, and RAF can’t keep him much longer with an out-of-state move on the horizon.

Now he needs you.

Fonzie at a Glance

🐶 Breed: Large mixed breed (about 60 lbs)
📆 Age: Approx. 2 years
🐕 Dog Friendly? OBSESSED. His best friends are other pups—big and small!
🧍 People? Shy at first, but once you’re in, you’re in for life
🚽 Housebroken? Yep!
🏠 Crate Trained? Also yes—and highly motivated by bedtime snacks
💉 Vetted? Fully vaccinated and neutered

From Street Dog to Structured Star

Fonzie didn’t have much socialization when he was found running the streets with his brothers. His intro to the world was loud, chaotic, and uncertain. No wonder he was overwhelmed in the shelter—aren’t we all when life feels out of control?

In just a short time with RAF, Fonzie has blossomed:

He has solid recall and follows his handler around like a loyal little shadow
He’s now comfortable with full contact—no more shying away
He’s doing great with dogs of all sizes, even Kuzco (the bossy one)
He’s mastering the routine, and learning how to meet new people slowly, safely, and confidently

But there’s one thing he hasn’t figured out yet: why no one has chosen him.

What Fonzie Needs in a Forever Home

Fonzie’s ideal adopter isn’t perfect—just patient.

He’d thrive with:

🐾 A dog-friendly home (he gains confidence through canine companions)
👥 An adopter willing to meet him a few times, or someone confident enough to spend a few hours bonding and then take him home
🧒 A home with no small children—he’s still working through nervousness, but this may be workable long-term
🐱 Cats? He’s being tested! (Check with RAF for updates.)
🛏️ Someone open to crate use and maintaining structure and training

If you’ve got love, leadership, and a soft spot for underdogs, Fonzie might just be your guy.

Can’t Adopt? You Can Still Help.

Every share, every dollar, every donated item brings Fonzie closer to a safe, loving future.

📦 Amazon Wishlist (All for Fonzie!)

💸 Donate:

• CashApp: $RafStarK9LLC

• Venmo/PayPal: @RafStarK9

Funds go directly toward Fonzie’s care, training, and re-opening a temporary boarding suite (because housing him requires two full-time A/C units—yes, really).

Ready to Meet Fonzie?

Reach out directly to the folks giving him a shot: