11/24/2025
This is a courtesy post for his family, Animal Haven by the Sea has no say in his re-homing outcome.
Name: Rigger
Age: 5 years old (born July 22, 2020)
S*x: Male (intact; family is actively working toward neutering)
Breed: Lab/Boxer mix with a little Heeler
About Rigger
Rigger is a sweet, mellow, loyal boy with the biggest “Eeyore” energy. Soft, gentle, a little goofy, and happiest when he’s close to his people. He may greet you with a big bark at first, but it’s all excitement and zero aggression. Within seconds, he melts into a puddle of cuddles and becomes everyone’s best friend, strangers included.
He’s excellent with kids of all ages (babies + toddlers included), good with cats, and does well with friendly, receptive dogs. His heart is huge, and he just wants to belong.
Rigger LOVES his kennel, it’s his safe space. He willingly naps in there all day, sometimes even inviting the family cat in for snuggles. Kenneling him overnight or when away has helped him stay out of trouble since he’s been known to raid trash or snack on a sock or two if left loose. He is vocal (barks, whines, little grunty noises), jumps when excited, and is best in a home that finds his personality charming instead of overwhelming.
Personality
• Sweet, affectionate, loyal
• Cuddly & attention-seeking
• Mellow but playful when invited
• Thinks he’s a lap dog
• A champion napper
• Loves being at home. Total homebody
• Gentle with kids and babies
• Friendly after initial “announcement bark”
Training & Habits
• Can sit and shake for a treat, can be told to “Kennel Up” and he will. Not well trained otherwise but will listen for the most part. He’s more of a spoiled pup. Although he is:
• Kennel-trained (loves his kennel; safest place when alone)
• Not the easiest leash walker, prefers a backyard he can explore for a little, off leash at beach, river, and in the woods.
• Good car companion but prefers secure spaces (car accident in 2022 gave him mild trauma; he lies between seats where he feels safe)
Health
• Received puppy vaccines (given at home before age 1)
• No major medical needs
• Occasional sensitive stomach if he gets into trash or dirty laundry or eats too fast
• Does well when monitored and kenneled at the appropriate times for his safety
Why He Needs a New Home
Rigger’s family has loved him his entire life. They owned his mother, who has since passed and this decision is incredibly hard for them. Due to a sudden change in their living situation, he cannot move with them, and the new home does not allow dogs (even with a companion letter, space is inadequate). They want him to go to a stable, loving, committed home where he can thrive.
Rigger Would Thrive With…
• A family who is home often
• Kids to love on
• Someone who appreciates a cuddly, loyal, mellow companion
• A home that can keep trash + laundry well secured
• A cozy spot on the couch or at someone’s feet
• Someone who enjoys a homebody dog who just wants to be near his people.
If you are interested, please contact the rescue and we will provide contact info.
