10-year-old shelter dog Rigby seeks forever home as heat dangers mount for pets

Rigby is a 10-year-old dog who was picked up from the streets and brought to Michigan Humane. Staff say he has some arthritis and trouble with his knees and hips, but a gentle, loving personality. The Mike Morse Law Firm is paying all standard adoption fees for whoever adopts him, so a new home for Rigby would not carry that cost. Michigan Humane President Matt Pepper noted that older dogs like Rigby are often overlooked in shelters. Rigby is described as a mellow companion who would do best in a calm household — not a jogging partner, but happy with short walks, plenty of lap time and a cool place on the couch. The search for Rigby’s forever home comes as metro Detroit experiences dangerously high temperatures. Shelter leaders warn the heat creates serious risks for pets of any age and are urging owners to be vigilant about signs of trouble. Pet owners should watch for changes such as labored breathing, respiratory distress, excessive panting, unusual lethargy or behavior that is out of character. If those symptoms appear and do not improve quickly, the shelter advises acting without delay because heat-related illness can escalate rapidly and become life-threatening. Practical steps recommended during the heat wave include keeping dogs indoors whenever possible, ensuring constant access to water and shade, limiting time on hot pavement or concrete, keeping outdoor outings very short and bringing water along. Rigby remains available for adoption at Michigan Humane, with adoption fees covered by the Mike Morse Law Firm — an opportunity to give a senior dog a loving home.