Two-year-old Dakota is a gentle, sensitive cattle dog mix who’s learning that the world isn’t so scary after all, especially when she’s got a dog buddy by her side. Once she feels safe, her sweet and goofy personality shines through, and you’ll see her tail start wagging and her playful side come out to play.

Dakota is very dog-friendly and really comes out of her shell when she has a confident canine friend to show her the ropes. She loves playing chase and would thrive in a home with another friendly dog who enjoys zoomies and companionship. Since settling in with her foster’s dog, she’s blossomed! She's becoming more alert, active, and joyful every day.

She’s still shy with new people and places, so patience and a calm environment are key. Dakota is a quiet soul around the house, but she does have a silly streak, especially late at night! Around 2 or 3 a.m., you might catch her having solo zoomies in the backyard or rolling gleefully in the wet grass. If she really likes you, she might nudge your ear to invite you to join in on the fun.

Dakota is house-trained, calm and quiet in the car (though she prefers the floorboards), and working on her leash skills. She’s also a bit of a chewer, so she’ll need supervision with plush toys. She takes her “stuffing removal” duties very seriously!

With her soft heart and playful spirit, Dakota will make the perfect companion for someone patient and kind, ideally with another dog to help her build confidence. Once she trusts you, she’ll repay your love a hundred times over with gentle snuggles, late-night giggles, and her signature nose-in-your-ear affection.

@vcanimalservices Replying to @Genevieve | FTM & Home Decor?? ? Elderberry Wine - Wednesday

@vcanimalservices

Dakota needs out of the shelter to learn how beautiful life can be!!! This 1.5 y/o cattle dog mix arrived at the shelter with her sister, Windy, both very fearful. We can SEE how badly Dakota wants to trust people and dogs. Where she used to press herself into corners and hide, she’s starting to approach us for greetings on her own! However, the shelter is no environment for a scared herding dog to come into her own. We are looking for an adopter, foster, or rescue for Dakota who will show her the love and patience she deserves. ?? She does not snap or bite, she’s just afraid but allows herself to be leashed and collared! Adopters should come visit Dakota at 600 Aviation Drive in Camarillo, CA. For foster applications: vcas.us/foster Rescue groups can email vcar.rescue@ventura.org

? original sound - Ventura County Animal Services