Pakeno was picked up as a stray in Richmond in January… no chip, no tags, and no owner to claim him.  Being a husky mix, he did not do well in a shelter environment, very stressed out in the confined spaces. In 2 months the shelter labeled him “non-adoptable” and gave him a euthanasia date: 3/25.

On 3/24/2022, at 6:00pm, Michelle from Whiskers Rescue and Wendy from Jelly’s Place Rescue presented Pakeno to the Play For A Stray Bay Area Rescue Committee (BARC) Board.  The BARC Board knew that Pakeno needed to be their first adoption and went into action to stop the euthanasia which was scheduled to take place in less than 15-hours.

In a total team effort and on borrowed time, Pakeno was rescued from the Contra Costa Animal Shelter.

New life, new name – Pakeno is now called DUKE!

Duke is living with a BARC Board member until 4/08 at which point, he will be able to move to Play For A Stray Ranch in Georgetown, CA to live the rest of his life in K9 paradise.

Duke is an amazing affectionate dog who has not shown any aggressive behavior once rescued from the shelter.  We couldn’t have asked for a better Dog 1 in our rescue mission.

To stay up to date on all things Duke, and the rest of the Play For A Stray rescues, follow us on social media: FBInstagram


The P4AS family, donors, sponsors, and partners, work together to rescue dogs from high kill shelters and bring them to the Play For a Stray Ranch to live out their days in doggy paradise!

The Ranch itself is a brand new acquisition. Numerous improvements are being made to best match the needs of the dogs, and you are witnessing the dream becoming a reality!

You can be a part of that family! Join one of our programs, either for yourself or your kids. A portion of your registration fee goes to the P4AS dream.  But there are more ways to help! Buy some of our P4AS gear, or simply make a donation, either one-time or recurring. Are you more passionate than that? Volunteer, sponsor us, join our board, or come work for us.

You can make a difference in the life of a stray. Join us!