Pit bull stigma leaves gentle dog stuck in shelter
courtesy of Friends of Northern Ocean County Animal Facility

Pit bull stigma leaves gentle dog stuck in shelter

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1 min read
June 18, 2025

JACKSON, N.J. — Amid a crowded shelter and limited volunteer time, a dog named Saphie has quietly waited for a chance at a permanent home — and now staff are making a renewed push to find her one.

Saphie, a black pit bull mix estimated to be around 3 to 4 years old, has spent a significant amount of time at the Northern Ocean County Animal Facility in Jackson. Volunteers say she is often overlooked, a common reality for black-coated dogs in shelters.

“She walks beautifully through the trails, looking back every so often just to make sure you are still with her,” staff wrote. Saphie is affectionate, loves attention, and happily lounges with visitors in shaded areas — especially if treats are involved.

Pit bull stigma leaves gentle dog stuck in shelter
Photo: pit bull stigma leaves gentle dog stuck in shelter

Shelter assessments show Saphie does not resource guard and is spayed, microchipped, heartworm negative, and current on all vaccinations. While she prefers not to be around other dogs and would do best as the only pet, volunteers say she thrives in calm, loving settings and may be suitable for families with older children.

Saphie ready for adoption or rescue transfer

Saphie is available for immediate adoption or to any approved 501(c)(3) rescue. The shelter, located at 615 Freemont Ave., is open daily from 1 to 4 p.m. Interested organizations can email kathleenfrett1@gmail.com for transfer inquiries.

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

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