News Flash

As a dog-lover, I’ve been excited about the idea of taking out a Roanoke Adventure Dog from The Regional Center for Animal Care and Protection (RCACP). The RAD program gives adoptable dogs a field trip away from the shelter. It’s an opportunity to relax away from the kennels and potentially meet someone looking to adopt.

I met Melinda, the Director of Operations at RCACP, early one morning and she introduced me to Brenda, a one-year-old American Pitt Bull Terrier who had already been at the shelter for a few months.

Melinda warned me that Brenda was a big people-puppy but probably wouldn’t love long walks. Bad news for Brenda, I had a walk planned for us.

After Brenda decided on her three favorite toys to bring along, we headed over to South County Library to check out the Wetland Trail. As we finished up, with the car in sight, Brenda plopped down on the sidewalk and did not want to get up, so Melinda was right about the long walks!

We eventually got back in the car and headed to Starky Park to sit in the shade and practice tricks. Brenda knew how to sit and would lay down on her own accord.

As the day got warmer, we sought relief in the County Administration Building. We didn’t make it past the front desk before Brenda was showered in attention. We tried to visit as many people as we could. No matter how many people we saw, Brenda was always excited to see more.

Before we headed back to RCACP, we stopped at Mill Mountain Coffee for a pup cup. Brenda did have a loud conversation with another dog at the café, but once she saw her treat, she devoured it!

Watch the full Adventure Dog video on YouTube.

Brenda has been adopted, but there are plenty more dogs and cats at the shelter eager for their forever home. Adoption hours are Monday through Saturday 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. and keep an eye on RCACP’s Facebook page for after-hours and weekend adoption events! You can learn more about the RAD program here.

I must admit, I’m a cat-lover, too. RCACP’s Free Roam Cat Room reopened a few months ago, so don’t be surprised if we Roam RoCo in the cat room soon!

Em Poertner is Roanoke County's Public Information Specialist. She hosts the Out of the Office podcast and Roam RoCo video series. If you have ideas for something to explore around Roanoke County, email her at epoertner@roanokecountyva.gov.