A Star is Born: Meet Mocha

Shelter Dog Stars as “Sandy” in Local Production of Annie

A talented and friendly terrier-blend who became a local stage star after a scout “discovered” her at a County shelter is ready to trade the limelight for a loving forever home.

  In May, “Mocha” was housed at County Animal Services’ shelter in Bonita when she was discovered by a trainer looking for a dog to play Little Orphan Annie’s pet “Sandy” in a production of Annie at Vista’s Moonlight Theater.

Mocha proved a talented canine actress who delighted audiences in the musical that closed Saturday. Trainer Alex Kuty, is also been Mocha’s foster mom, said Mocha played her part in front of 1,000 people, five nights a week, for three weeks.

“Mocha is an example of the high quality and friendly pets available at our animal shelters,” said Dawn Danielson, Director of Animal Services. “We are so proud of her.”

In Annie, a lovable orphan girl is adored and adopted by Oliver “Daddy” Warbucks; now that the production is over, Mocha will be available for adoption at the County animal shelter in Carlsbad so she can find her forever home too.

Mocha would like to thank the cast and crew of the show for giving her an opportunity to star in Annie and act as an ambassador for all shelter animals, showing the public how amazing shelter animals can be! 

Applications to adopt Mocha will be accepted until Aug. 11. The application is available at the County Animal Service’s website at http://www.sddac.com/docs/Special_Adoption.pdf and can be faxed to 760-431-8401 or delivered to our shelter at 2481 Palomar Airport Road in Carlsbad.

Five years old, Mocha was relinquished by her family at the County animal shelter in Bonita earlier this year. She enjoys interacting with people and going for long walks; she would prefer being the only pet in her new forever home. Staff members and her foster parent will pick the best match for Mocha among the applicants.

Remember, whenever you are looking for a new pet, please check your local animal shelters first! 

For more information, contact the County Department of Animal Services at 619-767-2675 or visit www.sddac.com.