Learn how the Montevallo community has taken a stray dog under its wing.

By: Jamie Holdsambeck

If you are a resident of Montevallo, you have likely seen a medium build, white and black dog roaming around the city. His name is Rocky, and while he may not have a designated home to go to each night, he has plenty of homes where he is welcome.

Many Montevallo residents have taken it upon themselves to provide Rocky with food, water, and shelter. Olivia, a graduate student at the University of Montevallo, began to build trust with Rocky in the early months of 2020.

“I first encountered Rocky when I was a freshman at Montevallo. I immediately wanted to help this dog because I noticed his collar was really to too tight on him, but he never let me get close to him,” Olivia recalls.

After weeks of sitting with Rocky and providing him with treats and water, he allowed her to get his collar off, which was so tight that it was producing sores on his neck.

On any given day you can find Rocky along streets near the University, like Nabors and Highland streets. He is also known to travel up Highway 119, making his rounds within those neighborhoods as well.

When asked about Rocky, Karen Pickett, a Montevallo resident comments, “Rocky owns this town.”

Citizens have given Rocky the nickname of “Mr. Montevallo,” many see him as the towns’ honorary mascot. Rocky’s impact on Montevallo is substantial, and he is a great unifier within the community.