Once upon a time there was a great big old dog who needed a home. Now I know you folks reading this are asking yourselves, “What’s new about that?”

You’re right. It’s a familiar story, an oft-told tale of rejection and unrequited love. My humans moved away, couldn’t take me with them, brought me to the shelter, yada, yada. We’ve heard it all before.

But this time it’s personal. My name is Yukon, and you may remember my plea for a home last September. I’ve been here at the shelter for nine months now, and at the age of eight I’m not getting any younger.

I’d like to spend the rest of my life with a family who loves me and will take me to the beach or the park to play. I’m a social guy who loves people and would be happy to ride in the car with you anywhere you want to go.

You see, I have a lot of love to give. My heart is actually enormous, considering the fact that I am a Great Dane mix. I’ve been on a diet, so I’m now down to a slim 89 pounds. Despite my size, I’m very easy to handle when I’m walking on a leash, plus I’m food-motivated and easy to train. I also have a beef allergy, which means I have to read the labels on the dog-food bags before I chow down.

The ladies here call me “sweet” and “goofy,” and I must admit I enjoy the attention. We play “keep-a-way” with toys and I love to run around and pretend I’m not going to give the toy back. I also enjoy napping in the sunshine and just kicking back, enjoying the fresh air.

I like other dogs, but I’m not fond of cats. I adore children, but I don’t like it when they wrestle and fight. You see, I’m a protective guy who doesn’t care for conflict. It makes me feel terribly sad, because I’m so sensitive.

I will definitely bark at strangers when they knock on the door, but I love meeting new people. I love to be in the middle of all the fun and I do so hope I find a family who will let me join them on their adventures.

I hope someone adopts me soon. It has been a long winter, and I could really use a happy ending.

Please come play with me here at the Animal Rescue League of Southern Rhode Island, 506B Curtis Corner Rd. in South Kingstown, or call (401) 783-7606. We’re open Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

THANK YOU to everyone who volunteered, attended, contributed and modeled during our Ulti-Mutt Fashion Show and Tea. Special thanks go to local seamstresses Pat Galuska and Linda Lundblad for the beautiful American Girl doll clothes. Thanks to so many volunteers, this year’s tea was a tremendous social and financial success!

Kristine Rolofson is a volunteer with the Animal Rescue League of Southern Rhode Island and Small Paws 4 You. She is the author of more than 40 novels.