This Loveable Goofball Will Steal Your Heart. Meet ‘Hippo’

'Hippo' is Billings Wet Nose Wednesday Adoptable Pet of the Week.

Humans love to associate human features with our dogs. We talk to them, we give them voices (because we know they can talk back), we put silly costumes and clothing on them, and we consider them family. They often attempt to mimic our facial expressions, writes Nylabone, so when it appears that your dog is smiling with joy, it probably is.

Look at that face. Credit Jaci Bjorne, TSM

Hippo has plenty of joy.

This big guy lit up our studio like the 4th of July with his expressive face and happy energy. A two-year-old Bully mix, Hippo's human(s) can no longer keep him because of a changing housing situation. He appears well cared for and healthy with bright eyes and a shiny black coat that features white markings around his face, neck, feet, and on the tip of his tail. He's a solid, good-looking dog and he's very friendly. Coworker Jaci speculated he may have a bit of Cowdog in his lineage.

Derek Wulf and Hippo from YVAS with Michael Foth. Credit Jaci Bjorne, TSM

Loves people and other dogs.

Derek Wulf, Humane Outreach Coordinator at Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter said Hippo loves to play. He calmed down a bit after greeting us in the studio with plenty of kisses and dog hugs. He knows how to sit and could probably pick up "stay" with minimal coaching.

He's a big boy. Credit Jaci Bjorne, TSM

Adopt, don't shop for Christmas pets.

Many animal advocates say giving the gift of a new pet is a bad idea. Countless others say getting a puppy/kitten/turtle, whatever, was the best gift they ever received. Wulf said that adoptions typically slow this time of year as people are busy with holiday events and travel. If you DO want a new pet for Christmas, why not adopt one from Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter? We think Santa would approve. Browse all the animals available for adoption at the shelter HERE.

Credit Canva

Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter Giving Tree Locations:

Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter
Shipton's Big R Heights location
Dee-O-Gee
Skyline Espresso
Beyond the Box
Big Sky Coffee Roasters
Fuel Fitness

Stanley, our Wet Nose Wednesday Dog from last week is still available (as of 12/6). He's a shy, sweet, Shar Pei mix. Read More: Billings Wet Nose Wednesday 'Stanley' is Far Better Than a Mug Thank you Shipton's Big R for supporting pet adoption in Montana.