Brickle, a sweet dog with a heart full of potential, spent nearly six months at the Humane Society of Tampa Bay without finding a home. Despite his gentle nature, he was overlooked by almost everyone. Brickle wasn’t the excitable, tail-wagging dog that many people look for; instead, he was quiet, sad, and seemingly distant. His long stay in the shelter only deepened his sadness, and it seemed like no one would give him a chance.
It was clear that Brickle was a dog in need of special attention, but no one seemed to see it—until one family walked through the shelter doors and changed everything.
A Life-Changing Decision
Rachel and Nathan Johnson had always been passionate about rescuing dogs. Since 2011, the couple had been writing a daily blog through the eyes of their two rescue dogs, sharing their adventures with the world. They already had a dog named Digby Pancake when they visited the Humane Society, and as soon as they saw Brickle, they knew he needed them.
“He wasn’t a dog that a lot of people would’ve been drawn to just because he wasn’t overly happy or excited,” Rachel recalled. But Rachel and Nathan saw something in Brickle that no one else did. They took him home, knowing he would thrive in their family environment, and began a journey that would change all of their lives.
Brickle’s new life had begun, but he wasn’t the only one who would benefit.
A New Way of Life
Before adopting Brickle, Rachel and Nathan had made a major lifestyle change. In 2015, they sold their house, bought an RV, and decided to travel across the United States, visiting animal shelters along the way. “Our original goal was just to do it a year, and to visit the animal shelters to show what the people across the country are doing for animals and how other people could get involved. But, our dogs love to travel so much that we just kept going and we’re still going,” Rachel said.
Now, almost seven years later, Brickle has become an essential part of their journey. Traveling the country with his new family, Brickle’s world opened up in ways that were unimaginable to him when he sat alone in the shelter.
Brickle’s Unseen Impact
Brickle’s new life wasn’t just about travel; it was about finding healing and connection. “He is unlike any other person, dog, or individual that I have ever met,” Rachel shared. “He can know my moods instantly. I suffer a lot from depression, and he has saved my life many times because he keeps me going.”
Though Brickle didn’t wear his heart on his sleeve, the love and gratitude he felt for his family were clear in his quiet gestures. When he did express his emotions, it was always powerful and genuine. “Your heart beats for your dog,” Rachel said, reflecting on their special bond.
A Loss and New Hope
Tragically, Rachel and Nathan lost Digby, Brickle’s beloved companion, to old age. The loss devastated both dogs, but especially Brickle, who was deeply affected by the absence of his best friend. He became withdrawn and lacked the energy to do anything.
Recognizing Brickle’s need for a companion, the family decided to adopt another rescue dog, Fruitycake, who was also at the shelter for months, just like Brickle had been. The two dogs quickly formed an unbreakable bond. “Brickle does not like anyone really touching him, cuddling him, but he lets Fruitycake sleep with him. He lets Fruitycake put his arms around him. Their friendship is just beautiful.”
A Senior Dog’s New Lease on Life
Although Brickle is now almost 13 years old, his zest for life hasn’t diminished. He may not be able to go on the long hikes he once enjoyed, but he still wants to do everything he can. With Fruitycake by his side, Brickle finds the motivation to stay active. “I wouldn’t change a thing for travel, even for a senior dog,” Rachel said. “I feel like it has kept him young, and it keeps him mentally engaged and physically active.”
Brickle has always been an old soul—intuitive, wise, and deeply connected to the people around him. “There is no one like Brickle and there never will be anyone like Brickle,” Rachel added. This unique dog has shown everyone that even the most quiet and overlooked animals have something remarkable to offer.
A Story of Love and Hope
Brickle’s journey from a lonely shelter dog to a cherished family member proves that sometimes, the best things come to those who wait. It also highlights the importance of looking beyond the surface to see the heart of an animal. Brickle’s life is a beautiful testament to the power of love, patience, and understanding.
As Brickle continues his travels with his loving family, we are reminded that there are no perfect pets, just perfect matches. The Johnson family didn’t just save Brickle’s life—they gave him a future filled with love, adventure, and a chance to truly live.
Brickle’s story is one that will stay in your heart forever, just as it did for Rachel and Nathan. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the dogs who seem the most overlooked have the most to give.