What a hope-filled look. Rocket is hoping to find an adoptive home soon. He is a 9-year-old mixed breed, reportedly a Chihuahua and Blue Heeler mix. Rocket weighs 35 pounds, not too big and not too small.

Rocket’s life changed drastically recently, and as much as it pains his human to part with him, it must happen. Rocket is accustomed to living with someone who is home most of the time. Because of this, Rocket has been somewhat sheltered. He lives with another dog at this point, but he would rather be the only dog in his home. Rocket would like to play with the cats he meets. This may or may not make a resident cat happy! When children are kind and respectful of him, giving him space, he is fine with visiting kids.

There has not been a lot of opportunity for walks and exercise for Rocket. It would be nice for this to change gradually. Short walks at first, so that Rocket can get used to going out and enjoying all of the smells outside and exploring his new surroundings. We are told he will pull on a leash, and that is something that can be worked on. Time for walks will be a great way to bond with Rocket.

Rocket is a young senior. He can manage stairs just fine. He is rarely left alone, so his owner cannot say how long he can manage without a potty break. He will stay in his kennel during the day when needed, though he would not want that to be a regular occurrence for long hours; that would be so difficult for a dog like Rocket. At night, Rocket sleeps in his kennel. We are told Rocket barks when he is in the car with his owner, and she is talking to other people. He growls only when dogs are outside. It sounds like he is good at “protecting” his person, but he is “all talk”. Hey, we know dogs like that!

Rocket saw a vet last October of 2025. He received a dental at that time. Rocket’s adopter should be able to provide lifelong veterinary care and good-quality dog food for him.

This boy is a cuddler, a companion dog. He needs a home with someone who will let him be that, but also a home where his world can be expanded by positive experiences. If you are looking for a buddy to love, Rocket needs you.

Rocket is located in Olympia, WA. For contact information please email: referrals@olddoghaven.org

This is not an Old Dog Haven dog. Old Dog Haven has not assessed this dog for medical issues and will not be responsible for medical care after adoption. We urge prospective adopters to do their own evaluation.