Trained rescue dog still waiting at nj shelter
courtesy of rescue ridge

Trained rescue dog still waiting at NJ shelter

by
January 21, 2026
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Sophie the trained pittie waits another week at NJ rescue as adopters pass her by

MONMOUTH COUNTY, NJ — She’s leash-trained, gentle, and steady—but five-year-old Sophie is still waiting for her chance to go home.

Sophie, a pit bull mix and one of the longest-waiting dogs at Rescue Ridge in Monmouth County, has spent another week without finding a family, despite being one of the most prepared dogs at the shelter. Professionally trained and praised for her calm, people-loving demeanor, Sophie remains overlooked.

Volunteers say Sophie is a model dog on walks—focused and polite around other animals. Her trainer is offering free follow-up sessions to support a smooth transition into her future home.

Sophie is described as respectful with food, toys, and treats and is known to bond deeply with humans. Because of her excitable nature, she’s best suited for a home with children over the age of 10 and would thrive as the only pet.

Trained rescue dog still waiting at nj shelter
Photo: trained rescue dog still waiting at nj shelter

While other dogs have come and gone, Sophie continues to greet each volunteer with hope, waiting for someone to finally take her home.

Rescue Ridge is accepting adoption applications through its website. An approved application is required to meet Sophie.

Key Points
• Sophie is a 5-year-old trained pit bull mix waiting for adoption at Rescue Ridge in Monmouth County
• She is calm on leash, non-guarding, and suited for homes with kids over 10 as the only pet
• Her trainer is offering free follow-up sessions to her adopter

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