I was named Zosia after a Polish supermodel. We are both blond and female, and that’s about where the similarities end. Sad to say, though I’m a beautiful yellow Labrador retriever I have never been asked to strut my stuff down a runway or in front of a camera. My life hasn’t been that glamorous.

In fact, I’ve been here at the shelter twice. I was adopted once last May, but I was returned due to “housebreaking issues.” I’d like to defend myself, please. If you were left alone for most of the day, with no one to take you out or establish a bathroom routine, what would you do? I don’t have any problems here at the shelter; I keep my kennel clean and don’t leave messes.

I’m a purebred gal, purchased from a breeder four years ago. I’m a happy girl, goofy and energetic and full of kisses. I love belly rubs and going for rides in the car. I hope to have a new family who likes to swim, go to the beach and even have a boat. I’m a water freak, to the point of lunging in puddles while going for walks.

I know I need some training, but I’m willing to learn. I admit to counter surfing, looking for food in all the wrong places. I get excited and jump on people, though I’m trying to curb my enthusiasm. I bark at strangers, but I’m happy to greet them with a wagging tail.

I’m also good with kids, but I will steal their food when they’re not looking. I need to learn how to walk on a leash without lunging, which will take some practice. I’m happy to meet other dogs and I love to play with them. At first I didn’t know how to share my toys, but I learned how much fun it is to jump on basketballs, play tug-of-war with rawhides, and wear out humans with endless rounds of fetch.

I’m accustomed to a dog run and an invisible fence, and I am very well-behaved during vet visits. And you can give me baths and brush me, no problem.

I’m a girl who enjoys being pampered, so maybe I have something in common with that supermodel after all.

If you are interested in meeting me, bring a squeaky toy and come to the Animal Rescue League of Southern Rhode Island, located at 506B Curtis Corner Road 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.

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