'Ricasso' Seeks New Home After Year At Alexandria Shelter

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Artists may come up with their own habits and routines to draw inspiration for their work. For artist-in-residence "Ricasso," it just takes a little tail wagging. After all, he's a dog.

Rico, nicknamed "Ricasso" for his newfound artistic stint, is about to mark his one-year anniversary of being at the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria shelter. Over that time, he's become a staff and volunteer favorite.

A six-year-old American Staffordshire Terrier, Rico has captured the hearts of staff and volunteers with his goofy grin and demeanor, dunks in the kiddie pool and dedication to his beloved bowling pin toy "Pinny."

"Paintings to playtime and watercolors to walks, Ricasso knows how to have fun," says Dave Fawcett, who frequently fosters Rico. "And when it’s time to relax, he’ll be by your side for dinner, naps, movie nights and life. He is the perfect companion, and he doesn't even snore too loud."

It wasn't until recently he took up art as a hobby. When presented with some animal-safe washable paint, he knew exactly what to do.

"Rico has the most fantastic tail, and it’s always wagging!" said AWLA volunteer Joyce Smith. "One day, we thought maybe he might want to use his tail for something other than greeting his friends."

Since bringing out his inner artist, Rico has created 20 paintings. Visitors can check out his art gallery during AWLA business hours.

Aside from working on his latest creation, Rico is looking for his forever home. He would fit in a home without children or other pets. His adoption fees have been prepaid. AWLA also has a wish list for Rico's one-year anniversary celebration.

AWLA is located at 4101 Eisenhower Ave, Alexandria, VA. Animal viewing begins at noon, except when the shelter is closed on Wednesdays. See Rico's adoption profile and information about the adoption process.