shadow

♀-Male

Major FAS: Notes on a foster dog

Posted on: by:

This is a foster dog diary post about Major. New information will be added to the end of this post so all info on this dog is kept in one place and in chronological order. If you subscribe for updates, a short note will be sent when updates are posted. If you don’t subscribe, check back periodically to see what’s been added.

Last Updated: November 21

Major was a family dog.  I don’t know what changed in their family but on January 19, 2019 his family surrendered him to the local animal shelter, and his troubles were just beginning.

Base Info:

  • Arrival date: Sept. 9th
  • Breed: Greater Swiss Mountain Dog mix
  • Sex: Male
  • Age: Puppy, Young Adult, Mature, Senior
  • Weight: @ 60 Pounds
  • Neutered: Yes
  • General Health: Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor
  • Temperament: Playful, affectionate, bouncy.  Occasional bursts of violence.
  • Gets Along with Dogs: Undecided
  • Gets Along with Cats: Unknown
  • Gets Along with People: Usually
  • Gets Along with Children: Undecided
  • Housebroken/Crate Trained: Yes
  • Departure date: November 21

History

Major’s family brought him to the Friends Animal Shelter in Newport to surrender him.  While they were there, Major appeared to be a happy, bouncy boy.  But when his family left him there and went away, Major became upset, then angry, then vicious.

The shelter asked me to come look at him and determine if they were going to have to destroy him.  Their staff was unable to handle him or clean his kennel.  I arrived with a pocket full of peanut butter dog treats.  Nearly all dogs love these things.  In about 20 minutes I had him calmly eating out of my hand.  I showed their Vet Tech, Carol, what I had done and how to handle him.  She continued these techniques and got him settled enough to place him up for adoption.

Except he was not adopted.  Nine months later, he’s still there and is showing signs of shelter psychosis.  And he gets vicious with some shelter staffers.  So they reached out to me once again, would I foster him to get him out of the shelter environment and help him regain his sanity?  Yes, of course I will help Major.

Progress Summary:

Detailed notes on this foster dog’s progress are posted below the summary.

Dog to Dog Behavior

  • Relates well to other dogs: Yes (everyone I’ve tried him with)
  • Can eat food/treats near other dogs: Yes

Dog to People Behavior

  • Is affectionate: Yes
  • Is good with:
    . Men: Yes
    . Women: Yes
    . Children: Unknown
  • Jumps up on people: Sometimes
  • Mouths: No
  • Walks well on a leash: Working on that (see Oct 14 below)

House Dog Training

  • Willingly enters his crate: Yes
  • Is calm/quiet while in crate: Yes
  • Understands going outside to potty: Yes
  • Alerts me of need to go outside: No Yes
  • Is destructive of bedding and/or toys: No
  • Refrains from kitchen counter cruising: No Yes
  • Stays off people furniture: No Yes

Commands:

  • Comes when called: Yes
  • Sits on command: Yes
  • Down / Off: Yes
  • Shake / Paw: No
  • Kennels on command: Yes

Major’s Medical

  • DA2PP: 02/20/2019 (F.A.S.)
  • Bordatella: 02/20/2019 (F.A.S.)
  • Wormed: Dates | Product | Dose | By
    . 09/05/2019, Strongid, 6.5 ml, Friends Animal Shelter
  • Rabies: date (by) NEEDED
  • Neuter: Done prior to surrender
  • Heartworm Test: 09/05/2019, NEGATIVE, Friends Animal Shelter
  • Flea/Tick preventative:
    . date, product, dose
  • Heartworm preventative:
    . 09/13/2019, Ivermectin solution, 0.6 ml
    . 10/14/2019, Ivermectin/glycerine, 0.7 ml
  • NOTES:
    .  Showed signs of stress at the shelter, is aggressive with select staff members.  During assessment on 08/31 to 09/07 he responded well to both Marie and I on all visits.

Diet

4health Salmon and Potato recipe, 1½ cups AM, 1¼ cups PM.  I am underfeeding to get his weight down.

Gallery

Progress Updates

In chronological order, newest at the bottom. Some pictures are linked to a more detailed Doggy Tale about that update, click those to open the related story.

Sept 8

I have visited with Major 3 times now and have had no trouble with him.  I can go into his kennel, pet him, hand him treats, and he will sit on command.  If I encourage play, he gets revved up quickly and can be a bit overwhelming.  He *needs* some room to run and a low stress environment.  He will get that on Monday.

Sept 9

I picked up Major today.  He gave me no trouble at all, in fact once I got my transport box inside his kennel I prepared to lure him into the box with treats.  But as soon as I opened the door, Major scooted inside and said, “I’m ready, lets go!”  Carol helped me load him up and he rode well on the trip home.

He enjoyed exploring our play yard and has settled into his room.  All the other dogs have come by to say “howdy” and no ugliness came of it.  We’re off to a great start.

Sept 10

Major responds well to the “come” and “sit” command.  Generally, even if he is all the way across the yard from me, if I call out “Major, COME!” he will come racing across the yard as though it is pure joy to comply.  The only exception so far has been if he’s “busy” either doing his business or seeking a place to do it, he will finish up and then come running.  That’s okay by me!

And let’s do a food aggression test …

Sept 12

Major has been here three full days now and has not once peed or pooped in his kennel.  I let him out every few hours during the day and he takes care of his needs in the yard.  I praise him for that, but he may well be housebroken already.

Major is also getting quite playful now that he’s settling in and getting to know the others.  He and Blondie Bear had their first play session.  Things were tense at first …

Sept 16

Major has not been especially, “frisky” when it comes to solo play time, either in his room or in the yard.  But this morning he decided to frisk things up a bit by tossing around his Benebone.

Sept 18

Major appears to have lost some weight: he’s got more of a waist to him now.  That might be why he’s more willing to run and play now.  That will only help speed the trimming down and toning up process.  He has an appointment at Cedarwood for a Rabies shot on Friday.  I’ll weigh him on their big scale then and see how he’s doing.  He has still kept his kennel immaculate.  He really wants to be a house dog again.

Sept 20

Major and I had a nice play session, then it was time to take him for his rabies shot.  He let me put a harness on him (better control than a collar should he need to be controlled) and I thought about letting him ride behind the seats, but he can get pretty bouncy, and with no one else around to help settle him, that could get dangerous.  I can’t drive and soothe a big bouncy dog.   So I decided to use the transport box.  I opened up the back of the truck and the door on the box and said, “In your room” and Major stood up, put his front feet on the tailgate, and hopped on his back feet.  He was willing but couldn’t get them up there, so I gave him a boost.  He didn’t like that, swing around and bit me on the face.

Puncture wounds this time, no flaps of skin hanging.  But his teeth hit my jaw bone, and that HURTS.

I put an ice pack on it and called the vet to cancel our appointment.  Then I notified the animal shelter of the incident, haven’t heard back from them yet.  Than I mopped the blood off the floor and went to sit down for a bit to just mash that ice pack onto my jaw and cheek.

When the bleeding had almost stopped I fixed a sandwich for lunch and rehashed the morning, looking for what I did wrong.  There are several things.  But to do them better would require more than just me being present.  That seems to be a recurring theme.

On the brighter side, when I let him out for his afternoon play, he responded to me as he always does, not appearing to be holding any animosity toward me.

Oct. 4th

It’s been two weeks since our unfortunate incident and there has been no more incidents of aggression.  In fact he has been responding to me as he always had before: a big happy, bouncy boy.

I want to try him at playing with some of the other dogs, but I need a helper to do that right, because if it goes badly it will go bad quickly with Major.

One thing I do have to give him credit for is that in the (almost) month he’s been here, he has always kept his kennel pristinely clean.  All I’ve ever had to remove from his floor is fur.  Major seems majorly housebroken.  I truly wish I knew if he could be trusted to to get cranky with the other dogs, I’m sure he’d be happier as a house dog and that would get him back on track faster.

He doesn’t spend a lot of time in the yard either.  He might linger more if he had a playmate but most times he goes out to take care of business, then is ready to go to his room and get his cookie.

Occasionally Blondie Bear with play with him a little, but she’s not into the rough and tumble play any more.

Oct. 11

Fur is all I ever remove from Major’s room.

This week has been just holding steady for Major.  No hint of aggression, keeping his room immaculate, playing well with Blondie, and showing signs that he’d like to play with Rosco.

The cool weather makes him bouncier than ever and he’s doing more running.  The running is good, the bouncing can be a little intimidating.  I think he’s picking some of that up from Rosco.  Rosco has the bad habit of running around me, jumping up and nipping my hands to get my attention.  Major’s picking up Rosco’s bad habit.  But when I push him away and say, “down!” he does settle.  Once he’s staying down I’ll pet him.

Oct. 14

Major is still dedicated to keeping his kennel clean.  He is doing better at leash walking, and was calm during his petting session today.

Nov 11

The past month has seen improvement in Majors leash walking skills, and regression on his people interaction skills.  He’s gone back to jumping up on me, something I had him broken of.  I’m pretty sure this is because he sees Rosco doing it and getting attention from is — even if it is a scolding.  I need to spend more quality time just hanging out with Major.

He seems to want to play with the other dogs, but his body language is hard to read: not sure if it play or a fight he’s after.  But he IS quite the Homebody.  He likes his room, appreciates the blankets and cushions, and keeps his room clean and tidy.  He really should be an in-the-house dog.  If only I could be sure what his intentions toward the others are.

Nov. 21

It was getting really cold at night a while back and I crated Major in the bunkhouse from 9:00 PM until breakfast time at 6:00 AM.  He really liked being inside and eagerly looked forward to settling into his crate for the night.  Once the cold snap was past I continued crating him at night, just because he did like it so much and was so good in his crate.

Last night was no different from any other: I took him in ahead of the other two, when we got through the building door I let go of his lead and closed the door while Major scooted into his crate, turned around and plopped down ready to receive his cookie after I retrieved the slip-lead and closed the crate door.  Only this time when I reached in for the lead he bit me!  Viciously.  Not a playful nip gone awry.  Blood was pouring out of my hand (graphic image), so I secured Major’s crate door, scolded him briefly, then went in my house to make repairs before moving the other two dogs inside.

I notified the Friends Shelter of the incident and asked them to come pick him up.  Obviously, I’m not making the progress with him that I thought I was.

I was going to leave him in his crate this morning but, not knowing when or if anyone was coming for him — and knowing that needing to “go” and being crated would SERIOUSLY stress him out, I decided to move him to his kennel for breakfast, then allow his morning potty run – just like always.  He did fine until I tried to pop the buckle on his collar (wanted to salvage the collar and tag) and he snapped at me again.  He missed.  I’ll sacrifice the collar and tag.

When Elishia (Shelter Manager) and crew arrived with a large trap to transport him in, he went into the box warily but once the door was closed and he was trapped he was baring his teeth and snarling at everyone.

The shelter staff all had a good cry this morning while they prepared.  I’m feeling sick to my stomach for having failed him.  Most of the time Major was a big, bouncy, happy boy.  But that tendency to suddenly lash out without warning or apparent cause is deeply disturbing.  We hoped that some resort time at Piney Mountain would allow him to de-stress and recover.  But, as Elishia put it, “When he lost his family it broke him, and he’s just not getting over that.”

Rest in peace, Major, may you find happier times over the Rainbow Bridge.

Want to help
save lives?


 If you enjoy our pupdates, Doggy Tales, and educational articles consider subscribing for notices when new pieces are posted. It’s painless and you can unsubscribe any time you want. Your e-mail address is used ONLY to deliver these notices. That’s a promise! [email-subscribers namefield=”YES” desc=”” group=”Public”]

Rosco Steele: Notes on a foster dog

Posted on: by:

This is a foster dog diary post about Rosco. New information will be added to the end of this post so all info on this dog is kept in one place and in chronological order. If you subscribe for updates, a short note will be sent when updates are posted. If you don’t subscribe, check back periodically to see what’s been added.

Last Updated: Nov. 15

Rosco Steele is one of several siblings who were rescued from a hoarding situation and have been in foster care.  His sister, Sable, was staying with us until just recently.  I can definitely see the family traits.

Base Info:

  • Arrival date: Sept 19, 2019
  • Breed: Feist mix
  • Sex: Male
  • Age: Puppy, Young Adult, Mature, Senior
  • Weight: @ 35 Pounds
  • Neutered: Yes
  • General Health: Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor
  • Temperament: Shy, clingy, feisty
  • Gets Along with: People, Dogs, Cats
  • Crate Trained: No.
  • Housebroken: No
  • Departure date: Nov. 15, 2019

History

Pulled from a hoarding situation many months ago, held in foster care since, but not trained.  He’s here for training and socialization.

Progress Summary:

Detailed notes on this foster dog’s progress are posted below the summary.

For a listing of Doggy Tails that include Rosco [click here].

Dog to Dog Behavior

  • Relates well to other dogs: Yes
  • Can eat food/treats near other dogs: Yes
  • Preferred style of play: Undetermined

Dog to People Behavior

  • Is affectionate: Yes
  • Is good with:
    . Men: Yes
    . Women: Yes, but prefers men
    . Children: Unknown – he’s pretty wild right now.
  • Jumps up on people: Yes
  • Mouths: Yes: this has turned to licking, no longer nips.
  • Walks well on a leash: Yes Keep the lead short and he does well.

House Dog Training

  • Willingly enters his crate: No
  • Is calm/quiet while in crate: Eventually
  • Understands going outside to potty: No Yes
  • Alerts me of need to go outside: No Yes
  • Is destructive of bedding and/or toys: Yes
  • Refrains from kitchen counter cruising: No Yes
  • Stays off people furniture: No Yes

Commands:

  • Comes when called: Yes
  • Sits on command: No
  • Down / Off: Yes
  • Shake / Paw: No
  • Kennels on command: Yes (with a bribe)

Rosco’s Medical

  • DA2PP: 11/15/2019 (Claws and Paws)
  • Bordatella: 11/15/2019 (Claws and Paws)
  • Wormed: Dates | Product | Dose | By
    Unknown
  • Rabies: 06/13/2019 (Claws and Paws)
    .             11/15/2019 (Claws and Paws)
  • Neuter: 06/13/2019 (Claws and Paws)
  • Heartworm Test: 06/13/2019, NEGATIVE (Claws and Paws)
    .              11/15/2019 (Claws and Paws)
  • Flea/Tick preventative:
    . 07/13/2019, product?, dose?
    . 09/26/2019, TevraPet Activate II, 1.6 ml
    . 10/27/2019, TevraPet Activate II, 1.6 ml
  • Heartworm preventative:
    . 07/13/2019, Interceptor, dose?
    . 09/22/2019, Ivermectin solution, 0.4 ml.
    . 10/27/2019, Ivermectin solution, 0.4 ml.
  • NOTES:
    . No health issues known other than lapsed HW preventative.
    .

Diet

4Health Salmon & Potato recipe, 1¼ cups AM, 3/4 cups PM.

Progress Updates

In chronological order, newest at the bottom. Some pictures are linked to a more detailed Doggy Tale about that update, click those to open the related story.

Gallery

Sept 21

Rosco is definitely Sable’s brother!  Their mannerisms are so much alike its spooky.  Like Sable, he is affection starved, like Sable he is really rowdy, like Sable he has no clue how to properly interact with people.  But these things are why he is here at Piney Mountain: we will teach him these and he will become a good pet for someone.  Like Sable, he will always be an active dog, suited for a family that likes a lot of activity, not a family that wants a couch potato.

So far he is getting along great with his kennel-neighbors, Major and Faith.  He does not stir up trouble.  His most annoying habit is to “yip, yip, yip” all night long if I leave him outside with the others.  To combat that I take him inside the bunkhouse and crate him.  He’s not fond of that, but Faith and Major get jealous because they both want very much to be House Dogs and try to get through the gate to the bunkhouse when I let them out for their late night potty runs if I take Rosco inside first.  Once everything settles down, Rosco does too and he seems to sleep all night.  So far he has not torn up the blanket in his crate either.

Sept 23

This morning was the first time he left me alone to clean his kennel and went off to explore the play yard.  Before this he tended to be with me, underfoot and in the way as he demanded attention, while I worked.  My neighbor was out watering her garden and Rosco decided she needed barking at, so that helped to draw him away for a while.  He also peed in the yard for the first time I praised him lavishly for that, hopefully it will encourage him to do that more often.

He is also sleeping through the night once I crate him in the bunkhouse.  I get him out again as soon as possible in the morning and he has not messed up his crate.

Sept 29

For the past three nights Rosco has been sleeping outside with his foster friends instead of being herded inside the bunkhouse to be crated so he doesn’t keep the whole mountain awake with his shrill (and LOUD) barking.  He seems to have learned that being well behaved means he gets to stay out with his friends.

Last night he did get into a session of howling between 2:30 and 3:30, but it was a soft “wooo, wooo, wooo” and it was intermittent.  I doubt it disturbed anyone.  I probably would not have heard it had I not been awake anyway.

Oct 4

Yesterday Marie got home late because she stopped for groceries on the way. Feeding time for all of us was later than normal as a result.

I was out feeding the foster dogs and Rosco started growling, snarling, and barking viciously: his back was up and teeth showing. But he was facing the back of the kennels. “What in the world is going on here?” I wondered, and I began looking to see what he was so upset about.

Then I realized: the setting sun was casting my shadow on the back wall of the kennels and he was trying to defend us all from this dark intruder.

Rosco is a knucklehead sometimes, but quite devoted.

Oct. 11

Not much progress this week.  He’s a little better at leash walking, but I have to keep him of a really short lead or he runs circles around me and binds my legs.  He also still has the bad habit of refusing to pee in the yard, but waiting until he’s back in his room, then squatting like a girl and flooding his room again.

There was another dog that a rescue wanted to pull from Animal Control, and wanted me to foster for a few weeks.  But I didn’t have room since none of my current fosters are ready to be in-house dogs.  SO I decided to build another kennel.  A temporary job, but secure and comfy.  Given Rosco’s propensity to pee all over, I decided to move him into the temp-kennel and let Ford have Kennel #2 — once I’d power washed and sanitized it really well.

Well, Ford got pulled by another agency the day before I finished this kennel.  I had to make a door from scratch, that took longer than I’d thought.  But Rosco seems to actually be happier where he is than he ever was in the “good” kennel.  Probably because he’d been on dirt since he was born, and that’s what he’s used to.  He’s drinking less water, peeing less, and is willing to use the yard.  Go figure!

Nov 12

The past month has seen slow improvement in Rosco’s behavior.  He has come to the realization that he gets more affection when he is not a whirling dervish trying to demand my attention by nipping at my hands and tripping me.  He is much better at walking on a leash.  And he is doing more solo-play (exploration) in the yard, instead of being always running tight circles around my legs.

He is energetic.  He will ALWAYS be energetic.  His thought processes are frantic, so his attention levels are low.  He is still food-centric, so training with treats is counterproductive.  Using petting works better.

Nov. 15

We said our “farewell”s to Rosco yesterday as he boarded the rescue bus to New Jersey. He did us proud. Earlier in the day he had blood drawn for a heartworm test, he sat still and didn’t even flinch at teh needle stick.
He was talkative (yippy) as we drove hither and yon, but wasn’t thrashing around in his crate.
When we got to the transport site he walked calmly to the staging area and was timid but controlled as other people greeted him.  He let me lift him into his crate and entered willingly.
In short: he behaved like a normal dog, which has been our goal all along. Good boy, Rosco, and happy tails to you!

Want to help
save lives?


 If you enjoy our pupdates, Doggy Tales, and educational articles consider subscribing for notices when new pieces are posted. It’s painless and you can unsubscribe any time you want. Your e-mail address is used ONLY to deliver these notices. That’s a promise! [email-subscribers namefield=”YES” desc=”” group=”Public”]

Louis Steele: Notes on a foster dog

Posted on: by:

This is a foster dog diary post about Louis. New information will be added to the end of this post so all info on this dog is kept in one place and in chronological order. If you subscribe for updates, a short note will be sent when updates are posted. If you don’t subscribe, check back periodically to see what’s been added.

Last Updated: Sept 15

Pulled from Newport Animal Control by Steele Away Home – Canine Foster and Rescue.  PMFC is fostering.

Base Info:

  • Arrival date: Sept 7, 2019
  • Breed: Hound
  • Sex: Male
  • Age: Puppy, Young Adult, Mature, Senior
  • Weight: 39.4 Pounds
  • Neutered: Yes
  • General Health: Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor
  • Temperament: Typical for a hound
  • Gets Along with Dogs: Yes
  • Gets Along with Cats: Unknown
  • Gets Along with People: Yes
  • Crate Trained: No
  • Housebroken: No
  • Departure date: Sept 12, 2019 going to S.A.V.E.

History

Unknown

Progress Summary:

Detailed notes on this foster dog’s progress are posted below the summary.

Dog to Dog Behavior

  • Relates well to other dogs: Yes
  • Can eat food/treats near other dogs: No Yes

Dog to People Behavior

  • Is affectionate: Yes
  • Is good with:
    . Men: Yes
    . Women: Yes
    . Children: Yes
  • Jumps up on people: Not usually
  • Mouths: No
  • Walks well on a leash: Not great, but managable

House Dog Training

  • Willingly enters his crate: No Yes
  • Is calm/quiet while in crate: No Yes
  • Understands going outside to potty
    No Yes
  • Alerts me of need to go outside
    No Yes
  • Is destructive of bedding and/or toys
    No Yes
  • Refrains from kitchen counter cruising: No Yes
  • Stays off people furniture: No Yes

Commands:

  • Comes when called: Yes
  • Sits on command: Yes
  • Down / Off: Yes
  • Shake / Paw: No
  • Kennels on command: Yes

Louis’ Medical

  • DA2PP: 03/14/2019 (Animal Control)
    .             06/27/2019 (Animal Control)
  • Bordatella: 03/14/2019 (Animal Control)
  • Wormed: 03/14/2019, Pyrantel Pamoate (Animal Control)
  • Rabies: 09/07/2019 (Paws&Claws)
  • Spay/Neuter: 09/07/2019 (Paws&Claws)
  • Heartworm Test: 09/07/2019 NEGATIVE (Paws&Claws)
  • Flea/Tick preventative:
    . 09/12/2019, ?product?, ?dose?
  • Heartworm preventative:
    . 09/08/2019, Sentinel, 2, 11-25 lbs doses
  • NOTES:
    . Has a scabby spot on lower back which looks to be from chewing or rubbing against kennel fencing.
    .

Diet

4health Salmon & Potato recipe kibble
1¼ cup in AM, 1 cup in PM

Progress Updates

In chronological order, newest at the bottom. Some pictures are linked to a more detailed Doggy Tale about that update, click those to open the related story.

Sept 7th

Louis making like a frog

I picked Louis up from Animal Control this morning and took him to Steele Away Home’s medical day for neutering.  He crated up and rode well, deciding that making like a splayed frog was hes best way to ride.  It worked and he rode there and them home like this without peeing or pooping in his crate.

I’m told he was good while he waited to: no fussing or carrying on in his crate.  He seems to not be bothered much by his surgery, and has not been licking at his incision.

Sept 12

Louis left us today, heading to New Jersey to find a forever home through S.A.V.E.  He rode well, walked politely to the staging area and crated up without a fuss.  He’s a good boy, a handsome boy, and I hope he finds a home again quickly.  Safe travels Louis!

Sept 15

ADOPTED!

Want to help
save lives?

 If you enjoy our pupdates, Doggy Tales, and educational articles consider subscribing for notices when new pieces are posted. It’s painless and you can unsubscribe any time you want. Your e-mail address is used ONLY to deliver these notices. That’s a promise! [email-subscribers namefield=”YES” desc=”” group=”Public”]

Martin NAC: Notes on a foster dog

Posted on: by: Comments: 11 Comments

This is a foster dog diary post about Martin. New information will be added to the end of this post so all info on this dog is kept in one place and in chronological order. If you subscribe for updates, a short note will be sent when updates are posted. If you don’t subscribe, check back periodically to see what’s been added.

Last Updated: Dec. 24, 2019

This sweet, affectionate little fellow looks like a puppy, but he’s not.  He is almost 2 years old, thus fully grown, and a really good boy.

Base Info:

  • Arrival date: Aug. 23
  • Breed: Golden Retriever / Black Lab / Husky
  • Sex: Male
  • Age: Puppy, Young Adult, Mature, Senior
  • Weight: 47 Pounds
  • Spay/Neutered: Sept 4th, 2019
  • General Health: Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor
  • Temperament: Gentle, sweet, well-behaved.
  • Gets Along with Dogs: Yes, loves to play.
  • Gets Along with Cats: Yes.  If they run, he will chase.  If they confront him, he backs down.
  • Gets Along with People: Yes
  • Gets Along with Children: Yes, he loves kids.
  • Housebroken/Crate Trained: Yes.
  • Departure date: August 26th  October 21, 2019 November 8, 2019

History

This precious boy was removed from an abusive environment, along with several other dogs.  He was living in a small pen on someone’s porch.  But you would not know it by his behavior, he is as loving and eager to please and any dog from a perfect home.  Martin was adopted, and well loved, but had to be returned due to no fault of his own.

Progress Summary:

Detailed notes on this foster dog’s progress are posted below the summary.

Dog to Dog Behavior

  • Relates well to other dogs: Yes
  • Can eat food/treats near other dogs
    Yes

Dog to People Behavior

  • Is affectionate: Yes (gives great hugs)
  • Is good with:
    . Men: Yes
    . Women: Yes
    . Children: Yes
  • Jumps up on people: Not really, gives gentle hugs
  • Mouths: No
  • Walks well on a leash: Yes

House Dog Training

  • Willingly enters his crate: Yes
  • Is calm/quiet while in crate: Yes
  • Understands going outside to potty: Yes
  • Alerts me of need to go outside: Yes
  • Is destructive of bedding and/or toys: No
  • Refrains from kitchen counter cruising: No
  • Stays off people furniture: Mostly We allow him on the people bed, not on the living room furniture.

Commands:

  • Comes when called: Yes
  • Sits on command: Yes
  • Down / Off: Yes
  • Shake / Paw: Yes
  • Crates on command: Yes (with bribe)

Medical

  • DA2PP: 08/21/2019 (NAC)
    .             10/28/2019 (PMFC)
  • Bordatella: 08/21/2019 (NAC)
    .                   10/28/2019 (PMFC)
  • Wormed:
    . 10/26 – 10/28/2019, Fendbendazole, 10 ml
  • Rabies: 08/22/2019 (Cedarwood)
  • Spay/Neuter: Sept 4, 2019 (Cedarwood)
  • Heartworm Test: 10/31/2019 – Neg (Cedarwood)
  • Flea/Tick preventative:
    . 08/22/2019, Capstar, 25+ lbs
    . Early Sept, Frontline
    . 10/18/2019, Fipronil, 45-88 lbs
  • Heartworm preventative:
    . 10/18/2019, Ivermectin/Glycerine, 0.5 ml

Progress Updates

In chronological order, newest at the bottom.

Aug 26

We only had the privilege of fostering this sweet boy for a weekend.  We “borrowed” him from Newport Animal Control because we knew he was gentle, calm, and affectionate, as well as being a really good looking dog.  The Quilts & Canines event was coming up and we figured that would be a great venue to help this boy find a forever home.

I picked him up on Friday and took him to our favorite groomer: Kathy’s Grooming Parlor in Newport.  She brushed all the under fur out and bathed him.  He came out looking and smelling so much better.  He came home and spent the night with us. and we took him to the show on Saturday.

We put him in a portable kennel in front of our booth.  It had a roof to keep the rain and or sun off of him.  Many people came over to visit with him.  Almost all commented on what a well behaved boy he is.  Several said they’d adopt him in a heartbeat if it wasn’t for (something).

Someone we are familiar with who was also a “vendor” at the show, came to visit him several times.  Finally she said that she just loved this boy and would adopt him in a minute, but can’t afford the adoption fee right now.  Another near-by “vendor”, Cathy, overheard this conversation.  A little while after Ms. R left, Cathy came and asked if she could take Martin for a walk.  We know Cathy well and were confident in her ability to manage Martin.

They walked around the perimeter of the show and ended up at Ms. R’s tent.  There they stood and talked for a while.  Then they called me over.  We discussed several things including what was involved in an adoption and what the adoption fee covers.  It’s really quite a bargain, there is no “profit” involved for either Animal Control or the Veterinarian.

Then Cathy said, “If I pay the adoption fee and a couple months of food, would you adopt Martin and give him a good home?”

Ms. R said, “Yes, I’d be happy too” and just then, Martin stood up and hugged her!  We were all near tears at that point.

I filled out the adoption paperwork with Ms. R and we agreed on a time to meet at Animal Control so they could finalize things and schedule Martin’s surgery.

That appointment went off without a hitch this morning, and Ms. R took her new family member home with her.

Oct. 18

But it seems the fencing Ms. R has around her yard is not high enough to keep Martin in her yard and she’s afraid he’s going to get hurt by running loose.  So, with a broken heart, she returned Martin.  We will begin looking for another home for this sweet boy.

Later that afternoon …

It has been an afternoon of whirlwind communications.  The connections that were made here are multi-faceted and difficult to explain, but there was a lady, Martha, who stopped by to visit with Martin several times while we had him at Quilts and Canines.  She was thinking about adopting him but wasn’t sure she and her husband were ready for another: their last dog had died of old age not long ago.  By the time she decided she did want to do this, Martin had already been adopted by Ms.R.  Martha was disappointed, but thought, “If that wasn’t Gods plan for them …”

Today I put the word out that he was available again and it worked it’s way quickly back to Martha.  Martha called me.  We discussed things.  I liked what I heard, she liked what she heard.  We have a meet & greet between Martin and Martha and her husband scheduled for tomorrow afternoon.  We are excited and hopeful.

Oct 19

Martin came in after he had dinner to join our gang for Friday Sci-Fi night.  The dogs all got chewies while Marie and I ate dinner.  When the dishes and tray tables were cleared away  Martin came out to cuddle with Marie in front of the fire.

Teach me how to Facebook, Doug!

At bed time Martin went back to his crate and did fine while we were milling around getting ready.  When we settled and the lights went out Martin got lonely and fussy, so I went to sleep on the sofa to be near him.  That made him happy and he slept through the night.

This morning he got up and went outside to pee with the other house dogs, then Martin and I went to the den to kill time on the computer.  Martin wanted to help.

I took Martin outside and he played with Blondie Bear while I cleaned kennels.  He was ZOOMING around and having just the BEST time!  That wore him out and when we went inside I trimmed his toenails, wiped the dust and dirt off of him with a damp cloth, then brushed him out.  He gave me no trouble at all with any of this.  He is SUCH a good boy!  He’s resting in his crate with a hoofie until it’s time to go meet his potential new family.

Martin says, “Yeah, I’d like living here.”

The meet-n-greet went well.  They loved Martin, Martin enjoyed running around in their large fenced back yard, which includes a large gazebo with a BED in it!  A large house with lots of rooms to explore, and he was perfectly well-behaved  — well, except for eating a bowl of cat food.  But no one held that against him since it WAS on the floor.  He liked both Martha and Dick, and wanted to meet their cats, but the cats were hiding.

“I need a snuggle.”

Martin came back home with us for the weekend to give his new family time to prepare for him to move in.  We will do the paperwork and make it all official on Monday.  Dick and Martha have a history of taking in unwanted dogs and keeping them until they pass on of old age.  They have no dogs at the moment, their last one having been euthanized to end her pain after having been with them for 16 years.  They said they weren’t going to get any more dogs.  But then Martha met Martin … well, one more.

Oct 21

We all met at Newport Animal Control so the management there could fill out the paperwork and make the adoption legal.  Then Martin went home with Mommy and Daddy who are having a tough time remembering to refer to martin as he or him because their past several dogs (all long term pets) were female and that pattern is ingrained.  Martin says, “I don’t care, as long as you love me.”

Oct 25

We are 0 for2 with Martin, and the reason for the return this time is even more sad than his losing another home.

Martins new dog Daddy is the one who stays home with Martin during the days.  Mom works most weekdays.  It seems having a bouncy 50 pound dog around has  brought home to them just how bad Dad’s health issues are.  Martha told me, “I don’t know which is worse, losing Martin or realizing that my husband is so sick.”

Martin even came to an understanding with their cats.

My heart goes out to them, this is really hard for them both.

Martin is back here with us, and we think we have a solution for him.  I’m waiting on a return message, then we’ll know.

UPDATE: Animal Rescue Network of New England has accepted him and has made reservations on a rescue transport that rolls through here Friday, November 8th.  He needs a couple of tests done and a Health Certification before he can travel across state lines, but three times should be the charm for this charming boy.

Nov. 1

Martins Health Certification went well yesterday.  He is healthy over all, free of heartworms and free of intestinal parasites.  So he is cleared for interstate travel next weekend.  He likes playing outdoors in this chilly weather, he should do well in New England.  He’s also quite entertaining at meal times.  We enjoy dinner and a show with him around.

Nov 2

We have a ‘No Dogs On the People Furniture’ rule in our house.  Guess who feels he’s above the rules?

Nov. 8

This morning we were admiring Martin’s wonderful feet. When we were done he said, “OK, I let you see my feet, now you owe me a belly rub.”

On the way to meet Martins ride to New Hampshire, Martin decided he liked looking out my window best.  Once we met up with the PETS Transport, Martin was eager to ride in the BIG truck.  At one point he was standing on his hinders with his fore-paws up on the ladder trying his best to get up there by himself like the driver had.  He could not quite manage that so I lifted him up there once the driver had Martin’s roomette set up for him with the blanket and hoofie we brought along.

Safe travels, dear Martin!

Dec 24

Martin, has been traveling the East Coast with his foster-to-adopt family.  That family has decided they officially LOVE this boy and officially adopted him today.  They’re calling him Duncan.  Martin says, “That’s okay as long as I get to sleep on the bed.”

The young man in the photo is a home-schooled teen who is his best friend.  He takes him for walks several times a day and rides his bike with Martin running alongside.  He spends a lot of time with Martin.

This is another example of shelters, fosters, and rescues working together to save canine lives and improve human lives.

A tip of the hat to City of Newport Animal Control for pulling him out of a bad situation, and Animal Rescue Network of New England for finding him the perfect forever home.  Merry Christmas, Martin!

Want to help
save lives?
Please

PMFC is a 501(c)(3) Charity

 If you enjoy our pupdates, Doggy Tales, and educational articles consider subscribing for notices when new pieces are posted. It’s painless and you can unsubscribe any time you want. Your e-mail address is used ONLY to deliver these notices. That’s a promise!

Or you can support us with Amazon Smile

 [email-subscribers namefield=”YES” desc=”” group=”Public”]

Lil’ Blue Steele: Notes on a foster dog

Posted on: by:

This is a foster dog diary post about Lil Blue. New information will be added to the end of this post so all info on this dog is kept in one place and in chronological order. If you subscribe for updates, a short note will be sent when updates are posted. If you don’t subscribe, check back periodically to see what’s been added.

Last Updated: Oct. 12, 2019

Lil Blue had been dumped in a crate outside Animal Control during the weekend. The Manager asked me to look at him. He was scared to death and not doing well.  Clearly he could not stay there.

Base Info:

  • Arrival date: August 26, 2019
  • Breed: Blue Heeler Mix
  • Sex: Male
  • Age: Puppy, Young Adult, Mature, Senior
  • Weight: @ 25 Pounds
  • Neutered: Sept 7th
  • General Health: Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor
  • Temperament: Affectionate, playful, and sweet.
  • Gets Along with Dogs: Yes
  • Gets Along with Cats: Yes
  • Gets Along with People: Yes
  • Crate Trained: Yes
  • Housebroken: Yes
  • Departure date: Sept 28, going to Lucky 7 Dog Rescue

Progress Summary:

Detailed notes on this foster dog’s progress are posted below the summary.

For a listing of Doggy Tails that include Lil Blue [click here].

Dog to Dog Behavior

  • Relates well to other dogs: Yes
  • Can eat food/treats near other dogs: Yes

Dog to People Behavior

  • Is affectionate: Yes
  • Is good with:
    . Men: Yes
    . Women: Yes
    . Children: Unknown Probably fine with older kids, may be too energetic for toddlers.  In either case, keep his nails trimmed, they get cat-like sharp.
  • Jumps up on people: Sometimes, but doing better
  • Mouths: No
  • Walks well on a leash: Yes

House Dog Training

  • Willingly enters his crate: Yes
  • Is calm/quiet while in crate: Yes Unless he needs to go out or is lonely/scared.
  • Understands going outside to potty: Yes
  • Alerts me of need to go outside: Yes
  • Is destructive of bedding and/or toys: No
  • Refrains from kitchen counter cruising: Yes
    .     He can’t reach them (lol)
  • Stays off people furniture: No, but he knows its bad behavior.  Likes to test that boundary.

Commands:

  • Comes when called: Yes
  • Sits on command: No
  • Down / Off: Yes
  • Shake / Paw: No
  • Kennels on command: Yes

Lil Blue’s Medical

  • DA2PP: Aug 28, 2019 (PMFC)
  • Bordatella: Aug 28, 2019 (PMFC)
  • Wormed: Dates | Product | Dose | By
    . Aug 28-30 | Fendbendazole | 5 ml | PMFC
  • Rabies: Sept 7, 2019 (Claws and Paws)
  • Spay/Neuter: Sept 7, 2019 (Claws and Paws)
  • Heartworm Test: Sept 7, 2019, NEGATIVE (Claws and Paws)
  • Flea/Tick preventative:
    . Aug 26, Capstar, 25+ lbs
    . Aug 27, Fipronil, 23 – 44 lbs
    . Sept 26, TevraPet-Activate-II, 0.8 ml
  • Heartworm preventative:
    . 09/07/2019, Sentinel, 11-25 lbs
  • Notes:
    . Infested with fleas at intake and has missing fur and irritated skin along his back.  Using Chlorhexadine to prevent infection in the raw spots.  Treated him for fleas (see above).  I do not think this is mange.
    . The vets who neutered him made no mention of skin disease, confirming my diagnosis above.  His fur is growing back in too.  He’s still itchy, seems to have dry skin.

Diet

Lil Blue is drinking water now so I’ve switched him to a dry diet: 3/4 cup 4heath Salmon & Potato formula twice a day.

Progress Updates

In chronological order, newest at the bottom.

Aug 26

I finished my morning deliveries and went home to e-mail Marie about Blue and the situation he was in.  I asked her if I could exceed our limit (again) for this pitiful fella (though we didn’t know what sex he was at the time because he was hunched up against a wall in the back, trembling like a leaf). Marie said, “Go get that poor dog!” So I did. Shades of Josephine’s story.  It took a while to earn his trust enough to guide him into a transport box to take him home.

Once I got him back here I let him borrow Blaze’s kennel while I cleaned out the transport box (he got scared during the trip and messed it up) and got things ready to bring him inside.  He started calming down as soon as he got here.

Out walking

Do I see Corgi here?

Resting after his walk

I want him to take a Capstar to be sure we aren’t bringing fleas into the house. He won’t eat anything I tried hiding it in (yet). Even lunch meat. Mom gave me some cat food when I took her the mail: that was my secret weapon when I worked at the Jeff County shelter. I’ll try that. If it works I can bring him inside to his room where I can continue working to calm him. He seems like a sweet little boy!

(UPDATE: The cat food worked!  He snarfed it down he needs a while for the Capstar to work, then I’ll bring him in and settle him in his crate.

Aug 27

Blue is coming out of his shell today.  On our morning walk he had his head up and a spring in his step.  There were a couple of times when I said, “Come on lil guy” and he actually followed me.  There is hope!

I also looked up some personality traits for Blue Heelers since I don’t know many details about them.  The Daily Puppy offered this:

Behavior with Other Animals

As natural herders, these pups try to herd other animals. They can be dominant toward other dogs in herding attempts, although early socialization can mitigate this. Blue heelers also nip the animals they’re herding, again due to instinct. They’re not trying to be mean. For this reason, blue heelers aren’t recommended around cats unless they have been raised with cats from puppyhood.

Behavior with People

In general, blue heelers enjoy a tight family bond, although they will test owners for dominance. If you can assert yourself as the alpha of the pack, your blue heeler will come to respect you. If you’re not willing to consistently take a pack leader stance, you may find the blue heeler temperament and energy level too much to handle. These dogs tend to be suspicious and watchful of strangers. Coupled with their family loyalty, this makes them excellent guard dogs.

He was dumped WITH a cat, so I suspect he’s been raised around cats and is okay with them.

“What? I’m just looking out the window.”

As of Sept 8 I have not seen him trying to herd the other dogs.  He likes to run with them, but is mindful of the size difference.

I HAVE seen the heeler dominance testing behavior, especially in regard to our rule of “no dogs on the sofa and people bed”.  I am firm but gentle in enforcing the rules and he is slowly accepting my assertion of being alpha.

Aug 29

Oddly enough, Lil Blue is forming a close friendship with Blaze.  Our littlest dog chooses to buddy up with our biggest dog?  Who’d have thought it?  He’s showing more of his true personality too.  There is separation anxiety, but that will settle out as he becomes confident he’s not being dumped again.  He is good in his crate, and he does let me know when he needs to go outside.

Aug. 30

Happy to be rid of the leash.

Lil Blue has learned to come when called, so I can safely let him out to free-range in the yard.  I still go out with him to watch over him (from a distance), but he may go where he wants.  He wanders, but he keeps me in sight.

He also gets to free-range inside most of the time.  He has been good about letting me know he needs to go outside by scratching on the door.

A little while ago Lil Blue was wandering the room while I worked at my desk. He was being good, just checking things out. Then he came to me, stood up on his hinders and started bouncing his front feet on my leg. That’s new. “What is it little guy, what do you want?”

He hopped down, ran to his room (crate) and stared inside. I looked closely and saw Buddy Beagle curled up in a ball in there. “He’s in my room! Make him get out, it’s MY room.”

I extracted Buddy Beagle. Lil Blue rushed in and took inventory then settled in saying, with a little pout, “It’s MY room!”

Sept 1

Lil Blue has  successfully slept through the night twice now.  Last night I moved his crate into the bedroom so I could sleep in the bed again.  It was a bit snug squeezing his crate in there, since we already have wall-to-wall dogs at night, and Blue had his own idea of a solution, but it worked out.

I took him out for a walk at 9:00 PM, he did his thing, went right back in and settled in his “room”.  He slept all the way through to 6:30 AM.  I got up to let Buddy Beagle out once and a couple of times to tend to my own needs and Blue didn’t fuss or demand to come along.  We went to church this morning and he was okay with that.  I think we’ve worked him through his separation anxiety.

Sept. 2

Lil Blue had quite an adventure today.  We started by my baking up a bunch of dog treats, most of which I will be delivering tomorrow. Blue is eager for the samples.

Then Blue and I loaded up for a truck ride. Lil Blue was not happy about this, I think he was afraid I too was going to dump him somewhere. I tried to assure him this was nothing like that.

He liked riding in the cart at Tractor Supply Co. while I gathered our monthly supplies. He also liked getting petted and fawned over by a store associate and a customer. One gal said, “You are SO adorable, if I didn’t have 6 dogs and a husband who says, ‘no more dogs’ I’d adopt you in a heart beat.”

The gal at the checkout offered him treats, but he refused them. He knew I had peanut butter treats in my pocket, he wanted one of those.

The ride back home was calmer, I think he figured out that we were on an adventure, not a dastardly deed. When we got home I let him run in the yard while I unloaded and stacked our monthly supply of kibble.

When we went inside, I removed his walking harness and he went to tell his tale to Blondie Bear. She was a touch envious, she loves going to TSC, but she said she was glad he’d had a good time.

Sept 7

Lil Blue was neutered today.  When we picked him up from surgery he was happy to see us and bouncy.  When his pain meds wore off, he began to walk stiffly and held his ears down flat on his head.  He did eat his dinner, leash walked with me several times to do his business, and he slept through the night.  He has not been licking at his incision.  If he’s still in pain in the morning I’ll get him some baby aspirin.

Sept 8

This morning I had to put Lil Blue in a cone to keep him from licking his neuter incision. He did not like that. He asked me to take it off. I did not.

We went outside after breakfast and Blue just sat in the grass facing away from me, refusing to “do” anything, refusing to acknowledge me when I called him. SO I went inside. Pretty soon he was at the back door with Callie and Jojo wanting back in. But he was still mad at me, I could tell.

So we crated most of the dogs and went to church.

When we got back Blue was so happy to see us he forgot, for a little while, that he was mad at me. We went outside again and Blue was not giving me the cold shoulder but wasn’t being affectionate either. He does get around really well with that cone though.

At dinner time I let Blue Free-range eat with the others. He did extremely well.

Where is Buddy, you ask? Buddy is in his crate eating. Buddy is a pig-dog and cannot be trusted around food.  Blondie, Callie, Josie, and Blue mind their own bowls and only their own bowls.  They’re good dogs.

And this evening his ears are back on top of his head. He’s feeling perky again and has forgiven me — though he’d still like me to take off the cone.

Sorry, Lil guy, I really am. Not yet.  But I’ll buy you a donut in the morning, that will be easier to handle.

He’s done an amazing job of adapting. Blue is a bright and resilient little fellow.

Sept 11

Lil Blue is doing well with his surgical recovery.  We bought him a donut collar to replace the cone, and he likes that much better.  Not that he had any real trouble with the cone.  Unlike most, Blue acclimated to the thing really quickly.  This is due in part to the fact he does not walk around with his nose to the ground — which turns the cone into a dozer blade — but also to the fact that he has an unusually heightened sense of spacial proximity.  He rarely ran the cone into things.

Lil Blue is now a regular member of the Breakfast Club (and the dinner club), able to eat in close proximity to all the other free-range dogs, and has lost all his anxiety.  Until recently he insisted I go out in the yard with him.  I didn’t have to be right next to him, but he needed to be able to see me.  For the past few days he has been leading the parade around the corner and out into the yard while I stay in the house.

I’m just watching out the window, dad.

Yeah, I caved – he is now allowed on the bed.

After getting his lovins, he sleeps at the foot of the bed.

Guardian of the Realm!

Nap time sentry

I’m ready for bed now.

Lil Blue likes hanging out in his “room”.

Lil Blue thinks he’s a wild dingo dog.

Who? Us? No, we’re not getting rowdy! Really!

“My kitty still loves me” Pouting after his bath.

Sept 28

We took Lil Blue to meet his ride north this morning.  We decided to take the Subaru, which is parked out front of our house, instead of the truck, which is always parked over by the kennels.  Blue wanted no part of going out the front door, “No, no, you keep telling me not to go out the front.”  and he remained skittish until I got him in the car and seated on Marie’s lap.  Then he calmed down and rode well.

He got fearful again when I took him out of the car and carried him to the transport van, but once he was in his crate, he settled in, laid down and watched as the other dogs were loaded.  He seemed to be doing fine, even as Marie and I disappeared from his sight.

I hope he has a pleasant trip and integrates quickly into his new foster home.  I miss him, but wish him well on his journey to finding a forever home.

Sept 29

We heard from Luck 7 Dog Rescue today: Lil Blue arrived safely and is settling into his new foster home well.  He is their current Dog of the Week.  Judging by his ears, he’s not thrilled with the costuming, but I’m glad he’s being well cared for.

Oct. 12 — ADOPTED!

Want to help
save lives?


 If you enjoy our pupdates, Doggy Tales, and educational articles consider subscribing for notices when new pieces are posted. It’s painless and you can unsubscribe any time you want. Your e-mail address is used ONLY to deliver these notices. That’s a promise! [email-subscribers namefield=”YES” desc=”” group=”Public”]

Lemaster Steele

Posted on: by: Comments: 1 Comment

This precious boy has obviously been someones treasured companion. He shows no aggression, is well behaved, knows some commands, and is housebroken. All he needs is a family to love him again.

Last updated: July 4, 2019

Base Info:

  • Arrival date: June 15, 2019
  • Breed: Boston Terr/AmBull mix
  • Sex: Male
  • Age: Young Adult, Mature, Senior
  • Weight: 31 Pounds
  • Spay/Neutered: Yes
  • General Health: Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor
  • Temperament: Affectionate, well behaved, gentle
  • Gets Along with Dogs: Yes (cats too)
  • Gets Along with People: Yes (even toddlers)
  • Housebroken/Crate Trained: Yes
  • Departure date: July 4, 2019

History

Picked up as a stray by The City of Newport Animal Control and not claimed, but this good boy has obviously been someone’s house dog.

Progress Notes:

Detailed update notes on our foster dogs are posted regularly. For a listing of updates that include Lemaster [click here]. A summation is included below.

Continue Reading…

Rocky Steele: Notes on a foster dog

Posted on: by: Comments: 1 Comment

Rocky was the alpha (dominant) in a bonded pair of brothers. He spent nearly all of his life in a shelter and was skittish around people. He needed socialization, and release from his roll as his brother’s keeper. This has been achieved.

Last updated: July 12. 2019

Base Info:

  • Arrival date: April 17, 2019
  • Breed: Hound mix
  • Sex: Male
  • Age: Young, Adult, Mature, Senior
  • Weight: @ 40 Pounds
  • Spay/Neutered: Yes
  • General Health: Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor
  • Temperament: Good: has become affectionate.
  • Gets Along with Dogs: Yes
  • Gets Along with People: Yes is a little skittish around new people.
  • Housebroken/Crate Trained: Working on it
  • Departure date: July 12, 2019 headed for SAVE

History

Rocky was one of 6 puppies and their mother who were owner surrendered to Newport Animal Control because the original owner went to jail, the owner’s father didn’t want the dogs and his mother could do nothing with them because the mother dog became aggressive after she gave birth. All of the dogs were adopted out, Blaze and Rocky together, but were returned because they were kept outside and they barked, causing neighbors to complain. Rocky and his brother had become bonded, with Rocky as the dominant. Rocky tended to bully his larger brother, eating his food, taking his treats, but also played the role of protector and alpha.

Progress Notes:

Detailed update notes on our foster dogs are posted regularly. For a listing of updates and Doggie Tales that include Rocky [click here]. A summation of his progress is included below.

Continue Reading…

Blaze Steele: Notes on a foster dog

Posted on: by: Comments: 1 Comment

Blaze was the submissive one in a bonded pair of brothers. He has now learned to have a life of his own and has become an affectionate, gentle companion.

Last updated: Sept 2, 2019

Base Info:

  • Arrival date: April 17
  • Breed: Hound mix
  • Sex: Male
  • Age: Puppy, Young Adult, Mature, Senior
  • Weight: 58.7 Pounds as of Aug 29th
  • Neutered: Yes
  • General Health: Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor
  • Temperament: Submissive, playful, timid with strangers
  • Gets Along with Dogs: Yes
  • Gets Along with People: Yes
  • Housebroken/Crate Trained: Yes
  • Departure date: Sept 6th, 2019 –> S.A.V.E.

History

Blaze was one of 6 puppies and their mother who were owner surrendered to Newport Animal Control because the original owner went to jail, the owner’s father didn’t want the dogs and his mother could do nothing with them because the mother dog became aggressive after she gave birth. All of the dogs were adopted out, Blaze and Rocky together, but Blaze and Rocky were returned because they were kept outside and they barked, causing neighbors to complain. Blaze and his brother had become bonded, with Blaze as the submissive. Rocky tended to bully his larger brother, eating his food, taking his treats, but also played the role of protector and alpha.

Progress Notes Summary:

Detailed update notes are posted below this Summary and the Photo Gallery.

Dog to Dog Behavior

  • Relates well to other dogs: Yes: large and small
  • Can eat food/treats near other dogs: Yes

Dog to People Behavior

  • Is affectionate: Yes
  • Jumps up on people: No
  • Mouths: No
  • Walks well on a leash: Yes

House Dog Training

  • Willingly enters his crate: Yes
  • Is calm/quiet while in crate: Yes
  • Understands going outside to potty: Yes
  • Alerts me of need to go outside: Yes Goes to the door
  • Is destructive of bedding and/or toys: No Put a chew toy in his crate
  • Refrains from kitchen counter cruising: Yes
  • Stays off people furniture: Yes

Commands:

  • Comes when called: Yes
  • Sits on command: No
  • Down / Off: Yes
  • Shake / Paw: No
  • Kennels on command: Yes

Blaze’s Medical

  • DA2PP: 08/21/18 (NAC)
    Booster: 12/13/18
  • Bordatella: 08/21/18 (NAC)
  • Worming History:
    . 08/21/18, Pyrantel Pamoate: dose? (NAC)
    . 12/13/18, Pyrantel Pamoate: 3.5 cc (NAC)
    . 05/10-12/19 SafeGuard, 10cc PMFC
  • Rabies: 10/03/18 (Cedarwood)
    Also Microchipped
  • Neuter: 06/13/2019
  • Heartworm Test: 6/13/2019 – Neg.
  • Flea/Tick preventative:
    . 05/01/2019, Effipro 45#+
    . 07/02/2019, Unknown
    . 08/16/2019, Unknown
  • Heartworm preventative:
    . 06/14/2019
    . 07/15/2019 ValuHeart, Lg dog
    . 08/16/2019 ValuHeart, Lg dog
  • NOTES:
    1) Inflammation in left ear 08/27 is causing him discomfort.  Appt 08/29 at Cedarwood Veterinary.  Examined him, irrigated ears, cleaned both ears, prescribed .5 cc Dermavet ointment in each ear twice daily for 10 days.

Gallery

In roughly chronological order, newest at the bottom. Click the thumbnails to enlarge. Some pictures are linked to a Doggy Tale or video about Blaze, click those to open the related story or video.

Rocky and Blaze, bonded brothers at Animal Control

Supervising construction of new kennels

House sitter

Blaze using his hound dog voice (video)

Running in the yard, ears flapping.

Hanging out with Blondie in the watch tower.

Da Boyz first time dining separately.

Rooming together again to make room for Luna

“Where is my BROTHER? What did you do with him?

Detailed Updates:

May 1, 2019

Blaze and Rocky are bonded siblings: two of 6 puppies that were surrendered with their mother to Animal Control. The others were all taken away as they were adopted, leaving just these two, clinging to each other for moral support in a scary environment.

When I pulled them from Newport Animal Control, Blaze (the bigger one) tended to cower behind his brother, who would bark fiercely at anyone who stopped at their kennel door. They were so unruly they had to be carried out to my truck because they would NOT walk on a leash.

Since coming to Piney Mountain Foster they have remained quite close, but not so fearful. They’d still sleep in a pile, and they love to play together in our big yard. But Rocky has been nowhere near as protective, and Blaze has started to develop a will of his own.

For full details, read the story: Breaking Brotherly Bonds

May 15, 2019

When our current gang of foster dogs arrived, the nights were not silent. Definitely not silent! Rocky and Blaze were vocal day and night. They barked at anything they could see or hear moving around, they barked at other dogs on the mountain, even quite distant dogs, who were barking at something or just being conversational.

Their first few nights here were exhausting for I had to keep going outside to sit near their kennel to convince them to not bark — and awake our neighbors. Thank God it was spring, and warm enough I didn’t freeze out there!

After a few nights they caught on and were far less vocal at night. And that trend has only improved since.

For full details read the story: Silent Nights

May 17, 2019

We had a pop-up thunderstorm roll in this morning as we were getting our day started. It gave advance notice in the form of continuous, distant thunder so I dashed out to feed The Brown Dog Gang and let them run in the yard to relieve themselves before it arrived. Lennon and Blondie went with me to help. The rain started just as we were finishing up and getting them back into their kennels.

The inside dogs were in a mild panic.  The outside dogs never made a peep. They do not seem to be bothered by the storm. But then, they had had their breakfast and a potty break, there was no wind to blow the rain around, and the new roof with its wide overhangs easily kept all of them dry. The new slab is designed to make sure run-off from the mountain cannot flow across the new kennels. So they hung out and watched the show.

For full details read the story: Pop-up Thunderstorm

May 18, 2019

Of the two brothers, Blaze is gentler and more affectionate.  He can turn the steam up and play hard with the other dogs, but with me he’s usually pretty subdued and well behaved.  He has also learned to walk on a leash:
Foster dog notes for May 18th, 2019

May 27, 2019

Blaze has lead the charge in munching down my berry bushes. I grow blueberries, blackberries, Boysenberries, black raspberries, and red raspberries. These grow in a berry patch in the play yard and have gone mostly unmolested by the dogs until now. Blaze decided that the ripe red raspberries were a refreshing snack, then he started on the others, and now is chewing on the unripe blueberries. Rocky and Sable are following his example. This is rather distressing since they are eating the bushes as well as the berries. These doggoes seem to think they’re GOATS!
Foster Dog Notes for May 27, 2019

July 5, 2019

Blaze has never been a problem in this regard, always gentle.

I have had to move the Da Boyz back into one room to make room for Luna.  This should not be an issue short term as they have learned to enjoy themselves while not in each other’s company.   And I feed them separately by calling Blaze to come out of the kennel to eat while Rocky eats inside.  I do give them treats together and Rocky is doing better about focusing on his treat and not on taking Blaze’s away.
Foster Dog Updates for July 5th, 2019

July 12, 2019

“Where is my BROTHER? What did you do with him?

Rocky was suddenly claimed by SAVE and he left us today headed for New Jersey.  Blaze was a little upset when we returned in the truck without his brother.  But I let him out to play with Luna (who is calm) and then brought him his dinner and he has settled down to where I do not see obvious signs of separation anxiety in him.

July 22, 2019

Chillin’ in his room

Blaze has not suffered anxiety over the departure of his brother, Rocky.  He continues to be a friendly, outgoing, playful fellow.  He and Sable get into rough play.  Luna and most of my dogs are not into the rough stuff and he will respect their wishes.  Josephine does like active play, but not with Blaze.  When in solo play time, he finds ways to amuse himself.  He’ll play with a ropey toy, a yard bone, a stick. With Blaze the bigger the stick, the better he likes it!

When play time is over and I call him back he comes running, eager to get his treat, and goes right into his kennel.

July 27, 2019

Blaze is not at all aggressive, but he has always played really rough because that’s how he and his brother, Rocky, have done it since birth.  Sable too likes it rough.  When the three of them get together it sounds like war!  But it’s not.  Now that Rocky has moved on, and Blaze needs more than just Sable to play with, can he learn to tone down his play?

Josephine (a Beagle Doxi mix) likes to play with the big boys, so long as they don’t hurt her.  Her first session with Blaze came to a quick end and she refused to try again until Callie came out as her back-up.  “If he hurts you,” Callie assured her, “I’ll chew his ears off.”  On that promise Josie tried again.  Even Buddy Beagle got in on it.  He says, The Beagle Brotherhood stands together!”

No, I don’t know why they call it The Beagle Brotherhood when two of the three members are female.  I suspect that is Buddy’s doing.

Yes, I know Callie is a pit bull, but she identifies as a Beagle, and these days that’s all that matters.  She is a Beagle.

Aug 6, 2019

Blaze tore loose a toenail while clowning in his kennel.  He could not walk on it that first day.  It still pains him, but he’s walking (with a limp) now.  I’m watching it for infection.

Blaze has been enjoying playing with all the other dogs, even Buddy gets into it.  But he’s backed out of play for a while because his foot hurts.

UPDATE: that toe has scaled over and is healing nicely.

Aug 16

Blaze will begin formal house-breaking this weekend.  I’ve set up the big travel box in the kitchen for him to use as a crate.  This should progress quickly.  He seems to know what I have planned, because each time I let him out of his kennel he runs to the back door and stands there waiting for me to let him in.  I think Josephine spilled the beans.  And he has a new admirer, Cinnamon!

Aug 17

Blaze began formal housebreaking today.  I set up a large transport box with blankets and a chew toy, and brought him inside late in the afternoon.  When he entered the house, he was scared by our “alien landscape”.  Surrendered as a puppy to Animal Control he lived in a kennel there, then after we rescued him he lived in a larger kennel here, he may never have seen the inside of a house.

He stopped half-way through the door and peered around wide-eyed while the other house dogs slipped past him and went on into other rooms.  Callie stopped, turned around and touched noses with Blaze, “It’s okay Blaze, this is where we live.  Come on in.” She turned again and walked to the end of the laundry room, looked back over her shoulder, “You coming?”  That was enough for Blaze and he slinked on in.   We let him sniff things out for a bit then bribed him into his “room” with a cookie.

At first he wasn’t too keen on being stuck in a small space and he barked a little, but he settled down, especially once I dished up kibble for everyone and slipped his bowl into his crate for him.  All the other dogs ate just outside of his crate and everyone was fine with that.  Blaze can get a bit grabby, but has never been food aggressive.

After they ate Marie spun his crate around so he could watch me build a pizza and salad for our dinner.  He was a little fussy until Callie came to lay beside his crate.  That calmed him down.  Okay, she was probably more interested in laying in front of the fan than calming Blaze, but it worked either way.

They all got munchy bones to chew on while we ate dinner in the living room and watched a couple of episodes of I Love Lucy on DVD.  Blaze did well except for one period when he needed to kibitz the show, but then he settled again.

Come on, lets go INSIDE!

I took him outside four times over the course of the evening to be sure he could relieve himself if he needed to.  And he did.  Then he ran up the walkway toward the back door, “Come on, Doug, let’s go back INSIDE, I like inside!”

After the third run I let him wander around the kitchen/living room for a while to explore a bit.  I was watching him like a hawk, but he did great.  When that was done I tossed a cookie into his crate and said, “in your room” and he went right in and allowed me to close up the door.

After his final run outside, just before bed, he again got to look around.  He stuck his head into Callie’s crate, discovered the Squakasaurous she had stashed in there, grabbed that treasure and skampered back to his room with it.  Yeah — he’s settling in!

As long as he doesn’t get barky when we go to bed he will have had a 5-stay first day.  If he does, well, he’ll go back out to his kennel for the night and we’ll try it all over again tomorrow.  In either case, he has done well and I’m proud of him.

Aug 19

While cleaning the kennels I let Sable out first to run around solo. When I got her kennel scrubbed out, and the dog house and dog bed scrubbed, and the disinfectant down on the floor, I let Blaze out to play with Sable so I could work on his room while the disinfectant worked in Sable’s. When Sable’s room was done, I put her back in and let out Cinnamon to play with Blaze, planning to put Blaze away when his room was ready and give Cinnamon some solo time. But when I called Blaze, he and Cinnamon came galloping over and ran into Blaze’s room. I figured they both wanted a drink of water and Cinni would come back out afterward. But no, she settled in on Blazes bed and said, “I’m staying here with my friend.” Blaze seemed okay with that, so I closed and secured the door. Once I got the disinfectant down on Cinnamon’s floor I headed out to do a yard pick-up while it did it’s thing. While I was out I heard Cinnamon yipping. Blaze gave out one loud, annoyed “WOOF!”, Cinnamon yipped some more, then it got quiet.

When I got back to the kennels, I found Blaze standing at his door giving me a look: “Let me out, Doug, she’s being greedy.”

Cinnamon had grabbed Blazes bed AND his chew toy and wasn’t going to share.

But, there were no hostilities, just hurt feelings. Poor Blaze!  He’s just trying to be hospitable and this eye-batting cutie-gal is taking advantage of him!

During the afternoon play session I moved Cinnamon’s bed and toy into Blaze’s room, but on the opposite side of the room.  Now they each have a bed and a toy.  The beds should work out, but it may well be that both toys will end up under Cinni’s paws.

Blaze says, “MY bed.  MY toy. You just stay on your side of the room, girlie.”

This may not work out and I’ll be moving Cinnamon back into her own room, so we’re NOT hanging out the vacancy sign just yet.

Aug 21

See the Aug 17 entry above for details

Last Saturday was Blaze’s first try at an overnight in the house.  He did fine in his crate all evening.  He went out to potty when I took him, and went back into his crate willingly.  But when we all went to bed, leaving Blaze in his crate in the kitchen (because his big crate won’t fit in our bedroom) he started crying and thrashing around so hard I feared he’d roll the thing over.  I tried to calm him, and it worked for a short while then it was back to the thrashing.  Eventually I had to take him outside to his kennel.  Sunday afternoon Blaze came inside and did well.  That evening I took him back to his kennel for the night.  Monday afternoon, Blaze came inside and did well.  He was getting some free-play time in the house.  That evening we retired to the bedroom, and Blaze fussed a bit.  I talked to him from the bedroom  (opposite end of a short hallway) and he calmed down.  We repeated this a couple of times during the night.  Tuesday night he did well and didn’t start fussing until 3:00 am.  Thinking he needed to go out, I took him out.  He didn’t.  I took him back and I went back to bed.  He went back to sleep too.

I did a quickie clean-up in the kennels this morning.  I’ll do a thorough cleaning and disinfecting after lunch when I have more time.  When I was done with Blaze & Cinnamon’s kennel I called them.  Cinnamon came trotting over and came right into the kennel.  Blaze stopped short and stood about 6 feet out giving me a look that said, “Nuh, uh, I’m a HOUSE dog now.  I don’t stay in a kennel any more.”  I had stuff to do and didn’t have time to argue with him so I left him to run in the yard with Blondie, Callie, Buddy and Josie.

When I was done with yard work we all went inside and I fixed lunch.  As is my habit, I took my lunch to the den so I could work at the desk and eat at the same time.  I left Blaze free to join me, Buddy came in with us.  Blaze found a ropey toy and occupied himself with that for a while.

After a while Blaze laid down and closed his eyes.  Bud a few moments later he got up and started scratching at the carpet to “fluff” it.  I scolded him and called him over to me.  He walked over and laid his head on my knee giving me his sad-eyes. “I’m sorry, I didn’t know.”

“If you need something cushier to lay on, try this.”  and I positioned him by the nearest dog bed and toppled him on his side.  His eyes got round as he looked at me nervously, “Buddy said this is HIS bed.  I shouldn’t be on it.”

“Buddy is on the other bed.”

“He said they’re BOTH his beds.”

“Buddy is just being bossy again.  All of the dog beds are for all of the dogs.  You may rest on any empty bed you want as long as you don’t tear it up or pee on it.  Okay?”

“Wow.  That’s great!”

And he laid back and enjoyed what may well be the first cushy dog bed he’s known in his life.  And he DID enjoy it!

Aug 22

I let Cinnamon out to play with Blaze this morning while I cleaned her kennel. When their play time was up I called both dogs. Both dogs came galloping over. Cinnamon ran into her kennel, which she shares with Blaze when I have to go away the dogs need to be secured. Blaze stopped about 6 feet out and gave me a look that said, “Nuh – uh, I’m a house dog now. I don’t get kenneled any more.” I had to laugh, and since I did not NEED to leave a gate hanging open I left him out with the other house dogs.

Later in the afternoon I again let Cinni out to play with Blaze. She trotted over to where Blaze stood by the corner of the house. He said, “Come on” and the two of them walked shoulder to shoulder along the back of the house and around the corner toward the back porch. I went to see what they were up to.  They were standing on the porch looking at the door, Blaze said, “Come on, Doug, open the door. I want to show Cinnamon my house.”

But to his credit, Blaze has done really well with his house training.  No accidents, he hasn’t torn anything up, and he has gotten along well with everyone; even Buddy who sometimes gives him a hard time about being in HIS house. (sigh)

Aug 24

Look who was free-range sleeping last night!

Aug 29

Blaze went to Cedarwood Veterinary Hospital today to have his ear checked out.  It is nothing serious enough to prevent him from traveling on the Rescue Run Sept 6th as scheduled.  Some inflammation, a lot of wax, some dirt, and … GRASS?  Yes, when blaze plays with Sable they wrestle and roll around in the dirt and on the grass.  They get pretty rowdy about it.  Blaze was not too keen on seeing the vet today:

I don’t want to stay here. OW, why can’t I get out this hole in the wall?
But … I don’t WANT to see the vet.
No, that’s alright. You go on, I’ll stay here.

But after much cheese and several cookies, Blaze loosened up and allowed them to examine him and clean his ears.
After the visit was all done and I had his medication, we went home. He was very grateful that I didn’t leave him there. The last time he got left there, he went home without his testicles.

.

Want to help
save lives?

 If you enjoy our updates, Doggy Tales, and educational articles consider subscribing for notices when new pieces are posted. It’s painless and you can unsubscribe any time you want. Your e-mail address is used ONLY to deliver these notices. [email-subscribers namefield=”YES” desc=”” group=”Public”]

Lennon Steele

Posted on: by:

Lennon (A.K.A. “Legs”) is a typical, young lab: playful and eager for attention. But for a lab, Lenny is unusually self-controlled and intelligent.

Last updated: June 15, 2019

Base Info:

  • Arrival date: January 21, 2019
  • Breed: Black Lab
  • Sex: Male
  • Age: Young, Adult, Mature, Senior
  • Weight: 53.5 pounds
  • Neutered: Yes
  • General Health: Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor
  • Temperament: Typical lab: playful and goofy.
  • Gets Along with Dogs: Yes
  • Gets Along with People: Yes
  • Housebroken: Yes
  • Crate Trained: Yes
  • Departure date: June 15

History

Lennon was picked up as a stray. He was an emaciated 36 pounds. Newport Animal Control put some weight back on him and he’s looking good and looking for a home.

Progress Notes:

Detailed update notes on our foster dogs are posted regularly. For a listing of updates that include Lennon [click here]. A summation and some photos are included below.

Dog to Dog Behavior

  • Plays well with other dogs: Yes
  • Can eat food/treats near other dogs: Yes

Dog to People Behavior

  • Is affectionate: Yes
  • Jumps up on people: No
  • Mouths: No
  • Walks well on a leash: Getting better

House Dog Training

  • Willingly enters his crate: Yes
  • Is calm/quiet while in crate: Yes
  • Understands going outside to potty: Yes
  • Alerts me of need to go outside: Yes
  • Is destructive of bedding and/or toys
    Yes (when bored)
  • Refrains from kitchen counter cruising: Yes
  • Stays off people furniture: Yes

Commands:

  • Comes when called: Yes
  • Sits on command: Sometimes
  • Down / Off: Yes
  • Shake / Paw: No
  • Crates on command: Yes

Medical

  • DA2PP: 11/26/2018 (Newport Animal Control)
  • DA2PP Boooster: 12/15/2019 (N.A.C.)
  • Bordatella: 11/2612018 (N.A.C.)
  • Wormed: 12/15/2018, Pyrantel Pamoate: 4.7 cc (N.A.C.)
  • Rabies: Jan 16, 2019 (Claws & Paws)
  • Neuter: Jan 16, 2019 (Claws & Paws)
  • Heartworm Test: Jan. 16, 2019 – NEGATIVE (Claws & Paws)
  • Flea/Tick preventative:
    . Jan 25, NexGard, 50+ Lbs.
    . Feb 25, NexGard 50+ Lbs.
    . Apr 25, Effipro 45#+
    . May 1, Fipronil 45#-88#
    . June 1, Interceptor
  • Heartworm preventative:
    . Jan 16, 2019, HeartGuard
    . Feb 20, 2019 NuHeart
    . Mar. 25, 2019 HeartGuard
    . May 1, 2019 HeartGuard
    . June 1 2019 Interceptor

Other Notes:

Had Demodectic Mange. NexGuard, Cephalexin, and medicated shampooing got rid of it. Skin scrape exam by Cedarwood on 2/25/19 confirms mange is gone.

Found Lennon had pretty bad femoral head erosion in right hip due to an injury, not degradation. Femur reconstruction by Dr. David Crouch DVM was negotiated. On March 20 Dr Crouch decided Lennon was healing well and is not a candidate for surgery. Just continue his supplement.

Gallery

In roughly chronological order, newest at the bottom. Click the thumbnails to enlarge. Some pictures are linked to a Doggy Tale or video about Lennon, click those to open the related story or video.

Lennon, when he was picked up

Lennon, way too skinny.

Lennon’s NAC Promo photo

Lennon’s first civilized truck ride. (video)

Is that a UPS truck coming?!

I’d better get lots of treats for this.

Lennon Boxing Blondie Bear (Video)

You go on, I’m comfy here.

Lennon is a sprinter!

Enjoys an evening by the fire with big bone

Quiet play time destroying ropey toy

Being chill while I work at my desk.

This batch is about done, Doug, better take them out!

Lenny & Josie in a friendly game of tug

After an afternoon of hard play with The Girls a fella needs a nap!

Ready for bed, turn the light off please.

Lenny and Josephine like to snuggle.

Lennon snagged his foot and broke a nail clean off – OWIE!

One HAPPY truck rider!

PLEASE turn off the light so I can sleep!

Chillin on the Coolaroo

Lenny and friends aboard The Bus to Wisconsin.
If you enjoy our updates, Doggy Tales, and educational articles consider subscribing for notices when new pieces are posted. It’s painless and you can unsubscribe any time you want. Your e-mail address is used ONLY to deliver these notices. [email-subscribers namefield=”YES” desc=”” group=”Public”]

Highland Steele

Posted on: by: Comments: 1 Comment

Highland was at the top of Animal Control’s “At Risk” list because he has a gimpy leg. He needed help right away.

Last updated: Oct 31, 2018

Base Info:

  • Arrival date: Oct 5, 2018
  • Breed: Retriever, Black Lab mix
  • Sex: Male
  • Age: Young, Adult, Mature, Senior
  • Weight:45 pounds
  • Spay/Neutered: 10/27/2018
  • General Health: Excellent
  • Temperament: For a Lab, he’s unusually calm. He is affectionate and gets along with everyone.
  • Gets Along with Dogs: Yes
  • Gets Along with People: Yes
  • Housebroken/Crate Trained: Yes and Yes.
  • Departure date: November 2, 2018

History

Highland and a cat were abandoned in an apartment by the apartment’s tenant when she moved out. The landlord found them when he came to clean-up sometime afterward. He called Newport Animal Control. No one knows for sure what happened to his leg, but I suspect he was kicked.

Known Issues & Progress

Behaviorally, he has no issues: he’s GREAT. We took him to Cedarwood Veterinary to have him examined and X-rayed to assess his right rear leg and see what, if anything, could be done to restore it. They said it had been broken some time ago, was not addressed and healed with the leg bone rotated laterally. It causes him no pain and he has learned to function with his disability. They recommend AGAINST surgery. He just needs exercise and love.

Commands he knows: Comes when called, “sit”, “shake”, “in your room”, “go inside”, “go outside”, “hush”.

He plays fetch well. Not fond of tug.

He is non-destructive of his bedding. Gets barky when separated from his people.

He has earned his full-fledged House Dog badge. We let him run in the house when we’re here. He sleeps on a dog bed in the bedroom with the rest of us at night. He gets up with me in the morning, goes outside to pee, then settles down in the den with me while I study. The only time I crate him is when I leave the house and he stays behind. And he gets fed in a crate. All but three of the dogs get fed in a crate just to keep them out of each others bowls. My three all-star house dogs have moved beyond that misbehavior. They eat around the dining table (on the floor, but around the table). I’ll try him on free-range dining before he leaves and update this note.

Medical

  • DA2PP: 10/05/2018.(N.A.C.)
  • Bordatella: 10/05/18 (N.A.C.)
  • Wormed: Oct 5, 6, 7 2018, Panacur: 10 ml (PMFC)
  • Rabies: Oct 28, 2018 by Claws & Paws
  • Spay/Neuter: Oct 28, 2018 by Claws & Paws
  • Flea/Tick preventative: Oct 5, Advantage
  • Heartworm preventative: Oct 30, 2018: Nu Heart
  • Heartworm Test: Oct 28, 2018. Test was NEGATIVE

Gallery

In roughly chronological order, newest at the bottom. Click the thumbnails to enlarge. Some pictures are linked to Doggy Tales and videos about Highland, click those to open the related story or video.

 

PLEEEASE take me home with you!

His stiff legs makes him sit funny too

Enjoying some yard time

Highland and Josie do gentle play (Video)

Out on the town

He is black gold!

Highland says, “and this is all I need.” (Story)

Highland responds to the “COME” command (video)

Highland and Callie Smooching

Highland and Blondie cuddle

Christmas clothes – sent by NJ Fosters
The happy ending!
If you enjoy our pupdates, Doggy Tales, and educational articles consider subscribing for notices when new pieces are posted. It’s painless and you can unsubscribe any time you want. Your e-mail address is used ONLY to deliver these notices. [email-subscribers namefield=”YES” desc=”” group=”Public”]