Influencer ‘adopts' local rescue dog for awareness
BOARDMAN, Ohio (WKBN) – It's a happy reunion that's been taking place each week this month. Cleveland-area social media influencer Joey Kinsley makes the 90-minute drive to Animal Charity in Boardman just to see Onyx.
Onyx is nearly 9 years old and has been here since the summer of 2018 when his owner was arrested. That's longer than any other dog. Kinsley, who uses the name 'SirYacht' and has more than a million followers on his different platforms, said the story moved him to take action.
'About a month ago, I think, somebody sent me a message saying that Onyx has been here for a while,' Kinsley said. 'Instead of sitting back and not doing anything, I was like, why don't I just try to help out.'
Each week, Kinsley and 76-pound Onyx spend their time playing, taking walks, and even stopping at Handel's for a pup cup. Their exploits are then shared with Kinsley's followers, as well as those of Animal Charity.
'I think, hopefully, it's bringing some awareness. Not just Onyx but to a lot of dogs and animals that need adoption,' Kinsley said.
It's even helped the agency with donations of supplies, some coming with notes hoping Onyx can find a forever home soon. Donations of money are needed, too.
'We are truly struggling monetarily to make sure that all these animals are getting exactly what they need,' said Jan MacMurchy, with Animal Charity of Ohio.
While Kinsley thinks about taking in Onyx himself, he plans to continue working to spread the message of adopting a new pet instead of shopping for one.
'I hope people realize the amazing things that go on here,' he said.
In the meantime, Kinsley and Onyx have another playdate scheduled next week.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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