Rocko (Credit: Potter League for Animals)

Meet Rocko, a 4-year-old mixed breed who’s mastered the art of being both athletic superstar and professional snuggler. This 75-pound charmer is available for adoption through the Potter League for Animals in Middletown and promises to fill his forever home with equal parts laughter and love.

Rocko approaches tennis ball retrieval like it’s the championship game, chasing down every throw with determined enthusiasm before proudly plopping down with his prize as if he’s just claimed victory. But while fetch might be his favorite sport, snacks are definitely his love language. His food motivation makes training both fun and effective, as this eager-to-please pup will work hard for his favorite treats.

Don’t mention car rides around Rocko unless you’re prepared to grab the keys immediately. This adventure-loving canine is always first in line for any automotive excursion, ready to serve as the perfect copilot for life’s journeys.

At home, Rocko transforms into an endearing contradiction: part silly playmate, part gentle cuddle bug. He’s lived successfully with children and has experience sharing space with other dogs, though shelter staff note he can be selective about his canine companions. Potential adopters with existing pets should arrange a meet-and-greet to ensure compatibility.

“Rocko has shared his life with sturdy kids and even another dog, and while he’s a little choosy about his canine pals, he saves his whole goofy, loving self for his people,” according to Potter League staff.

What Rocko truly seeks is a family willing to embrace both sides of his personality—the ball-chasing athlete and the affectionate companion who craves close contact with his humans. His ideal adopters will be ready to toss tennis balls, share snacks and welcome a loyal four-legged copilot into their daily adventures.

Interested families can meet Rocko at the Potter League’s Animal Care & Adoption Center in Middletown or call 401-846-8276 for more information. His adoption fee is $325.

More details about Rocko are available at https://potterleague.org/adopt/browse-pets/#sl_embed&page=shelterluv_wrap_1730976889%2Fembed%2Fanimal%2FPLFA-A-17970.

Ryan Belmore is the owner and publisher of What's Up Newp. He took over the publication in 2012 and has grown it into a three-time Rhode Island Monthly Best Local News Blog (2018, 2019, 2020). He was named LION Publishers Member of the Year in 2020 and received the Dominique Award from the Arts & Cultural Society of Newport County the same year. He has been awarded grants for investigative and community journalism, and continues to coach and mentor new local news publications nationwide. Ryan...