In October 2023, Rocky & The Bark Bunch was founded from the shared passion of three friends for rescue animals. Our mission was to utilize our Facebook Page to showcase pets from the Rockingham County Animal Shelter and our shelter fosters in need of loving forever homes, while also providing educational resources.

Throughout our time volunteering and fostering, we aim to convey that there is always a pet seeking a soft landing. Fostering creates a safe haven for animals experiencing kennel stress, those who are pregnant or have recently given birth, a tranquil space for healing a wounded spirit, or a place to relax and learn proper behavior.

The first part of our name, "Rocky," is inspired by my rescue dog, Rocky. He faced two significant challenges: he was a senior at 11 years old and tested positive for heartworm. After seeing his video of him sitting and shaking his paw, he was fostered through Friends of Eden Animal Rescue. We adopted him, and he became the beloved leader of our pack. In October 2023, Rocky & The Bark Bunch was founded by three friends united by their passion for rescue animals. Our mission is to utilize our Facebook Page to showcase pets from the Rockingham County Animal Shelter and our foster animals that are in need of loving forever homes, while also providing educational resources.

The first part of our name, "Rocky," is inspired by Jennifer’s rescue dog, Rocky. He faced two significant challenges: he was a senior at 11 years old and tested positive for heartworm. After seeing a video of him sitting and shaking his paw she fell in love at first sight, he was fostered through Friends of Eden Animal Rescue. They adopted him, and he quickly became the beloved leader of their pack. They adored him for 2.5 years before they sadly lost him on September 30, 2024, after a short battle with cancer.

What we hope the public takes away from our efforts:

- Don’t underestimate the value of senior pets.

- Dogs that test positive for heartworm deserve a chance at a healthier life, regardless of how long the journey might be.

- Shy or fearful pets require time to relax and build trust with you.

- Energetic pets should be allowed to learn proper behavior and receive training. Remember, a tired pup is a happy pup.

Being a responsible pet parent comes with various challenges, and we hope you’ll never give up on a pet that the shelter staff, volunteers, and fosters have devoted so much time and love to. You would truly be missing out!

Jennifer, Megan & Nicki