Hi Everyone!

Ryder is a stunning dog, but even his beauty wasn’t enough to prompt his family to search for him when he ended up as a stray in one of Southern California’s most overcrowded shelters. This shelter, known for its high euthanasia rate, often places multiple dogs in kennels meant for just one. Despite the odds, Ryder survived there for almost five months, thanks to the shelter workers who saw something special in him. When his time finally ran out, Coastal K9 received the call, and Ryder rode the Freedom Train into our care, given a second chance at life.

When Ryder first arrived, he was tentative and head shy, flinching at any attempt to touch him. It took just two days for him to show us the pain he had been hiding. Ryder would scream when anyone touched near his neck. Once we gained his trust and began examining him, we were horrified to find multiple bite wounds and scabs encircling his neck and the back of his skull—evidence of the torment he endured at the shelter. His injuries revealed the silent suffering he had experienced in an overcrowded, chaotic environment where no one noticed the blood or the fear in his eyes.

Over time, Ryder’s physical wounds have healed, and he has started to discover the joys of life. He now has his own safe kennel, his own bed, and plenty of food. He’s learned to play with toys, chase after balls, and do zoomies in the yard with his dog friends. Ryder has discovered what it means to feel safe and loved, but he still patiently waits for a forever home. He longs for a family that will never abandon him, one that will value his life and love as much as he values theirs. Ryder’s only Christmas wish is to be chosen again, this time by a family who will cherish him forever.

If you are interested in meeting this dog, please fill out our online application first. Contact us via email at info@coastalK9gsr.org. The minimum adoption donation ranges from $300 to $400. This amount only partially covers the cost of veterinary care, boarding fees, and other miscellaneous expenses involved in the temporary care and adoption of our dogs and is tax deductible. Prior to placement, all dogs will be spayed or neutered, receive current vaccinations, and are usually microchipped. If not, arrangements will be made on an individual basis. Special consideration may be given to those willing to adopt older dogs or dogs with physical problems.