Meet Nick 🎄🐾 (yes… that Nick — the one who almost didn’t make it home for the holidays) Nick is a 3 year old 48-pound Labrador Retriever mix who was out there doing his best to survive on the streets, sticking close to his buddy Saint right around Christmas time like any good holiday duo would. A kind stranger brought them both to safety, and just like that, “Saint and Nick” entered the shelter. Saint? Scooped up immediately. Nick? Stayed behind… waiting. And waiting. And waiting some more. Despite being ridiculously sweet (honestly, it’s almost suspicious), Nick kept getting overlooked. Day after day, he showed up with his gentle eyes, his wagging tail, and his “please pick me” energy… and somehow, people kept passing him by. Meanwhile, the staff and volunteers? Completely obsessed. Nick quickly became everyone’s favorite oversized baby. But shelters don’t run on favorites — they run on space. And space was running out. Then, just in the Nick of time… a foster opened up with The Misfit Ranch, and we were able to pull him from the shelter. And just like that, this boy got his second chance. Cue the collective sigh of relief (and probably a few happy tears). Now let’s talk about who Nick actually is — because this is where it gets good. Nick is the kind of dog who doesn’t just ask for love… he commits to it. He plops down dramatically, rolls onto his back, and presents his belly like it’s his full-time job. He’ll rest his upside-down head on your lap, stare into your soul with those soft, adoring eyes, and silently say, “I love you already… I’ve just been waiting for you.” He is, in every sense of the word, a big baby. And honestly? He’s very proud of that. ✔️ Loves other dogs ✔️ Passed his cat test at the shelter (certified polite gentleman) ✔️ Gives 10/10 heartfelt eye contact ✔️ Professional belly-up flopper On leash? Well… let’s just say Nick believes every walk is an exciting parade in his honor. He could use a little help with manners, but it’s all enthusiasm — no bad intentions, just a guy who’s really, really excited to be alive (and walking next to you). After everything he’s been through — surviving on the streets, being left behind, waiting far too long — Nick hasn’t lost an ounce of his sweetness. If anything, it’s grown. All he wants now is a home where he’ll never be overlooked again. A home where belly rubs are plentiful, love is constant, and he finally gets to be someone’s first choice. Nick waited long enough. Now it’s his turn for a happily ever after. 💛