Dexter the shelter dog melts hearts but still waits for his forever home
courtesy of Friends of Northern Ocean County Animal Facility

Dexter the shelter dog melts hearts but still waits for his forever home

Dexter is a big-hearted pup ready to leave the shelter behind — he just needs someone to give him a shot.

JACKSON, NJ — Dexter, a five-to-six-year-old pit mix described as sweet, friendly, and misunderstood, is still waiting for his chance at a forever home after spending far too long in a kennel at the Northern Ocean County Animal Facility.


Key Points

  • Dexter is a neutered pit mix who is dog-friendly and doesn’t mind cats.
  • He becomes anxious in his kennel but is calm, playful, and affectionate outside of it.
  • Dexter is ready for adoption or foster through Pitties and Pals Rescue NJ.

Dexter has quickly become a favorite among shelter volunteers, who say his energy and affection shine the moment he steps outside his kennel. Though he can seem overly excited when visitors arrive, it’s only because he’s so eager for companionship.

Dexter the shelter dog melts hearts but still waits for his forever home
Photo: dexter the shelter dog melts hearts but still waits for his forever home

He walks calmly on a leash, loves to play, and insists he’s a lap dog. He has passed all his behavior assessments and shows no issues with other dogs or cats.

Dexter needs a second chance

The shelter staff note that Dexter’s anxiety in the kennel causes potential adopters to overlook him. But once he’s out with people, his gentle and loving nature becomes clear.

He is neutered, up to date on vaccinations, microchipped, and heartworm negative. Because of his size, Dexter would do best in a home with older children.

Adoption or foster needed

Dexter is available for immediate adoption or rescue transfer. Pitties and Pals Rescue NJ has offered to take him, but a foster home is urgently needed.

He is located at the Northern Ocean County Animal Facility, 615 Freemont Ave. in Jackson. The shelter is open daily from 1 to 4 p.m.

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News