Rusty the Rescuoodle.

RSPCA NSW’s Illawarra Shelter will be closed to the public from Monday 17 to Friday 21 November while essential driveway works are completed. Adoptions will resume Saturday 22 November. Thank you for your understanding.

Rusty is no longer available for adoption.

To find other animals available use our search page to search for more animals. Below are some other animals that are looking for their new home.

Little bit about Rusty

🚨 LAP DOG ALERT (…or so I believe) 🚨

Hey! I’m Rusty — a Ridgeback mix with a mystery background and zero awareness of my 40kg size. In my mind? I’m a speedy little pocket rocket who absolutely fits on your lap.

I’m a big, goofy kid with a heart full of love and a brain full of sunshine. I live for:

☀️ Sunbaking like a professional

🧸 Parading my soft toys around like trophies

🏃‍♂️ Zoomies (obviously)

🧀 Lick mats covered in cream cheese (10/10, would recommend)

I LOVE attention, playtime, and being involved in whatever you’re doing. Other dogs? Yes please! But fair warning—I play hard and fast, so any future doggy siblings will need to meet me first to make sure we vibe.

Tiny humans? I’m best suited to dog-confident kids 6+ who can handle my enthusiastic chaos when I hit turbo mode.

Training-wise… let’s just say I march to the beat of my own drum. I’m not a “sit, stay, perfect angel” kinda guy right away—but give me patience, positive vibes, and fun training, and I’ll give it my all (eventually).

I’m looking for an experienced large-breed human who can guide me, laugh at my silliness, and help me become the best boy I know I can be. Big dog. Big personality. Bigger heart. Think you’re ready for Rusty?

Rusty’s ideal home environment

Best with Children Aged: 6 years +

Compatibility with Other Dogs: Friendly with Other Dogs

Compatibility with Other Pets: No Known Behavioral Issues

Training and Behaviour Needs: Some Learning Needed

Fencing Needs: Standard Fencing

Indoors/Outdoors Living Preference: Outdoors Mainly

Energy Level of Household: mild (e.g. seniors) (relaxed)

Additional Needs: veterinary consult prior to adoption

Share this profile

Looking for: Adoption

Animal ID: 619633

Age: 6 Years 4 Months

Sex: Male

Breed: Rhodesian Ridgeback

Colour: Tan

Size: Large

Location: Illawarra Shelter

RON: R251000223

Every animal available for adoption has been health-checked, behaviourally evaluated, and is up-to-date with vaccinations and parasite control relevant to their animal type.

Meet Rusty

Breed: Rhodesian Ridgeback

Age: 6 Years 4 Months

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Where to meet Rusty

Your gift has the power to change animals’ lives and give them a chance at the happiness they deserve.

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