‘Resilient’ Dog in Calif. Shelter for 4 Years — Her Entire Life — Is Still Hopeful She Will Find the Perfect Home (Exclusive)

Tipperary the rescue dog knows all about patience.

The 67-pound black and white shepherd mix arrived at Rancho Coastal Humane Society (RCHS) in Encinitas, Calif., as a stray puppy four years ago. For four years, Tipperary, nicknamed Tippy, has calmly waited for a forever home, but potential adopters continue to pass over the pup.

“Tipperary is a special dog, and we know her ideal home is out there,” Judi Sanzo, the president and CEO of RHCS, said in a statement. “She thrives in calm environments and forms deep bonds with her trusted people. Spring is the season of fresh beginnings and hope, and it’s the perfect time for Tippy to find her forever family.”

Tippy’s rescuers believe the dog’s ideal home is out there, and are taking every step to make sure she finds her perfect fit.

“From the start, we knew Tipperary would need a special home. Tipperary would do best in a quieter, rural or suburban environment. Since lifestyle is the most important factor in a successful adoption, finding the right match for a sensitive dog like Tipperary can be particularly challenging in an urban area like San Diego,” Michele Moua, an adoption services director with RCHS, told PEOPLE.

Tipperary the dog.

Rancho Coastal Humane Society


To help Tipperary reach folks that are a better lifestyle fit, RCHS expanded their search for Tippy’s forever home to less populated areas and brought the pooch to adoption events throughout California.

According to RCHS, Tippy would do better in a quiter home with easy access to the outdoors, because the dog values calm environments and nature.

“Tipperary is the perfect companion for those who cherish quiet evenings, personal space, and nature walks over bustling city life. Think: home office and peaceful backyard, not crowded coffee shops and bustling breweries,” RCHS shared.

Tipperary the rescue dog.

Rancho Coastal Humane Society


But a love for calm, doesn’t mean a dislike for people. Tippy is devoted and engaging with the individuals she forms relationships with.

“As a trainer, what I love the most about Tipperary is how smart she is. Tipperary is a loving and loveable dog, cuddly and affectionate. She’s a pleaser. She has remained resilient during her stay, always engaged and willing to learn lifelong skills from our devoted volunteers and staff,” Libby Kovalcik, a RCHS behavior and training specialist, told PEOPLE about the canine.

Sanzo added that all of RCHS adores Tipperary, because she is “friendly, intelligent, affectionate, athletic, snuggly, and a dog that loves with her whole heart!”

Tipperary the rescue dog, who is looking for a forever home.

Rancho Coastal Humane Society


That’s why RCHS is confident Tipperary will find the right fmaily. Whoever is interested in adopting Tippy has the option to take part in RCHS’ Foster-to-Adopt program, “a program custom-designed by staff to support you as this dog is introduced to a new home environment,” per the dog’s adoption profile.

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If you think you or someone you know could be the family Tippy has been waiting for these past four years, visit the dog’s adoption profile and fill out an adoption survey.

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