A stop at a shelter is hopefully temporary for a dog or cat, but for some, it can extend for a really long time. That's a story a 5-year-old pooch named Amphitrite can relate to.

Amphitrite, a tan and white pit bull terrier, started her long-term shelter sentence at a young age, when the family that had adopted her decided they didn't want her anymore and surrendered her. In the years since, she's bounced around, but she's currently at the Franklin County Humane Society in Rocky Mount, Virginia, where she's been waiting for a forever home for more than two years.

PHOTO: MICHELLE THOMPSON

This little girl has been resilient, though, not surprising for a dog named after a Greek goddess.

Michelle Thompson, volunteer with the rescue, says, "Amphitrite is truly the Goddess of the Sea! She loves all things water and is always drawn to it. There is a kiddie pool at the shelter during the summer and she can be found lounging in it to cool off. We took a walk by Philpott Lake and she just had to get in and get her feet wet, in February! She also enjoys going to Waid Park and walking around in the shallow river.

"During her two years with us, she hasn’t lost her spirit and fun personality. Most dogs would have, but she is a very strong girl, and seems assured that her people will come for her eventually."

In addition to her perseverance, Amphitrite is very photogenic, lighting up the camera roll of those lucky enough to see her grinning face. She'd certainly be Instagram-story ready for any new family ready for a fashionable 50-pound pooch. The shelter also says she loves having fun, whether it's a car ride, a hike, or playing in the water, so pictures from your outdoor adventures could get a lot more cheesy and a lot more grin-ny.

PHOTO: MICHELLE THOMPSON

She does need a bit of time to warm up when she meets someone new, as the rescue believes she had some trauma in the past. She may give out some defensive barks upon your first meeting, but once she becomes less wary, her true self will shine through. After you earn her trust and she recognizes you as one of her people, she will ultimately be pretty excited to see you. So excited, she may bust a move.

Thompson says, "Amphitrite is extremely smart and knows her 'people'. She knows your voice and will sit very still until you come into view. Then she just brightens up, starts wiggling from head to toe and dancing around to make sure you have noticed her! 'Here I am! Take me out and let’s go for a walk! Where have you been? I missed you!'"

Apart from her human friends, Amphitrite is basically one of the boys, preferring the company of male dogs. She's also a little forgetful of her size, so isn't ideal for a home with cats or small children. If your home fits the bill, and you want an attractive hiking buddy that looks straight out of an ad for an outdoor store, you may want reach out to the shelter. You could be in for a treat.

PHOTO: MICHELLE THOMPSON

Thompson says, "It may take a while to gain her trust. She has to know that you mean no harm to her and she can relax around you. Once you become a familiar friendly face, you will become one of her favorite people.

"Adding Amphitrite to your family will guarantee lots of fun, smiles and adventures! She would be up for a long hike or a lazy cuddle on the couch. She aims to please and will enjoy doing whatever makes you happy."

As much as the staff at Franklin County Humane loves their doggy Goddess of the Sea, they're ready for her to set sail for better adventures. If you're interested in applying to adopt her, you can find out more here!

PHOTO: MICHELLE THOMPSON