Meet Thor!

          This month’s shelter spotlight goes to Thor, a two-year-old, 63-pound Boxer mix with a look you won’t forget. Thor is mostly white with a striking black “Zorro” mask across his eyes, one solid black ear, and one ear speckled with black spots like a Dalmatian — a combination that’s earned him plenty of double-takes and smiles.

         Don’t be fooled by what you see in his kennel. Thor is a high-energy guy who doesn’t show his best side in a small space — the dog you meet in his cell is not the dog you’ll meet in the yard. Ask staff for a yard visit to see the real Thor: playful, curious, and affectionate personality once he’s got room to move.

That energy means Thor is looking for an active family who can keep up with him. He’ll need daily walks, yard time to burn off steam, and a bit of leash training — he’s known at the shelter as “the Lizard Hunter” for his enthusiasm when he catches a whiff of a rabbit or lizard on the trail. He does get along with other dogs, though so far, he’s only been tested with bigger playmates, and cats are best left out of the picture entirely, given his strong prey drive.

         The good news: Thor already knows how to sit, he’s highly treat-motivated, and he’s an easy study for anyone willing to put in some training time. And once he’s had his exercise and gotten his “yayas” out, he turns into a total couch companion — happy to cuddle up after a big day of adventuring.

Thor is extremely friendly with people and would thrive with an active family who wants a running or hiking partner as much as a snuggle buddy. Give him some patience, exercise, and training, and this handsome, spotted-eared boy will reward you many times over.

          Interested in meeting Thor? He can be visited Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Santa Maria Shelter, 548 W. Foster Road. Ask shelter staff for a yard visit to see him at his best.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​