In the summer of 2022, a beautiful mixed-breed dog named Porter found himself in a shelter in Long Beach. At the same time, Annalise and her boyfriend were searching for a dog to bring into their lives. Little did they know that they were about to meet the perfect canine companion who would not only fill their home with love and laughter but also challenge the stereotypes associated with large, strong dogs. When Annalise and her boyfriend visited the shelter, one of the volunteers insisted that they meet Porter, who had been there for about a month.
No one knew if he had been abandoned or lost, but he had been found roaming free before being brought to the shelter. As soon as they met him, Porter immediately approached Annalise’s boyfriend and leaned his backside against them – a gesture he continues to make when meeting new people to this day.
Despite his initial hesitance, it was clear that Porter was seeking companionship and was eager to become part of a loving family. When Annalise and her boyfriend brought him home, they realized he was always by their side, prompting them to joke that they should have named him “Shadow.”
Curious about Porter’s breed, they conducted a DNA test and discovered that he is 50% Husky, with a mix of German Shepherd, Pit Bull, and Border Collie. With his unique appearance and “resting Pit face,” Porter often surprises people with his gentle and affectionate nature. Weighing in at around 90 pounds, this tall and strong dog wears a gentle leader to help with walks, allowing him to open his mouth, pant, yawn, and even play fetch while wearing it.
Porter’s sweet demeanor is evident from the moment he meets someone, as he leans against them just as he did with Annalise and her boyfriend on their first encounter. Porter is a loving and happy dog who wakes up every morning with boundless energy and excitement. While Annalise spends her days with him, his favorite moment is undoubtedly when his dad comes home, often waiting by the door in anticipation.
Being left alone is a significant trigger for Porter, so Annalise and her boyfriend make an effort to spend as much time with him as possible. Thankfully, Annalise works from home and can provide constant companionship for their beloved dog. For the past two years, Porter has been an irreplaceable part of their lives, bringing laughter and joy even on the toughest days.
