Gus is a good boy. He loves cuddling, getting pets, and playing with his toys. He greats us at the door with his favorite toy of the week, it’s super adorable! Gus has a habit of trying to talk to people, mostly when he’s not getting what he wants, he’ll argue about it. I think it’s really funny, he knows how to make me laugh on my roughest days.
As you can probably imagine, this was a very hard decision on our family. We’ve had Gus since he was ready to leave his mom, at a young age. He’s always needed more attention and training than most other dogs. It’s also been an uphill battle to get him on the right path, but we can see the improvement every single day. However, ever since I found out I’m pregnant, he’s been not responding well to the training and work that we’ve been putting into him seems like it’s starting to fall back. We’ve also been willing to take as long as it took to make him the best version of himself.
I’m a high risk pregnancy, and my finances had to work a lot more to cover my lack of working. I don’t have the time, money, or energy to do right by my dog. I feel awful having to resort to this, but it’s not fair to Gus. He deserves a better situation, and proper owners. I hope you’re willing to consider taking our sweet boy into your loving home. If you put love into him, you’ll definitely get it back. You’d never have a more loyal and cuddly companion!
Dog: Primary Breed:
Australian Shepherd Dog
Primary Breed (if not in list):
He’s also mixed with Husky and Great Dane.
Birthdate (an estimate is okay):
12/05/21
Where did you get your pet?:
A family friend
Adoption Day (when did you adopt your pet? An estimate is okay.):
1/1/2021
Size (at full-grown):
Large
Weight (in pounds, at full-grown size):
90
Primary Color:
Calico/Multi/Tricolor
What are your pet's favorite toys and activities?:
He loves stuffed animals (although they don’t usually last long), any thing we’ve given him that’s orange, he’ll be more careful and favors them. He likes enrichment activities like putting treats in a box and having him dig them out.
What commands does your dog know?:
“Sit”, “No bite” (we use this instead of “drop”, and he comes to his name.
How does your dog react to being left alone for short periods?:
Gus doesn’t have any issues with being left alone. However, if he’s left alone for too long, he’ll take advantage of getting into the to trash and won’t wait to you get home to go potty if it takes too long.
Are there any specific triggers that cause your dog anxiety or stress?:
Strangers approaching his humans or property. He needs more socialization.
Is there a daily routine that works well for your dog (feeding, walking, sleep)?:
Not particularly.
Medical History and Care:
Vaccinations up to date
Spayed or Neutered
House/Litter-Trained
Microchipped
Special Diet
Special Needs
Does your pet have any history of health issues or medical conditions that potential adopters should be aware of?:
No
Has your dog ever shown any challenging behaviors, such as biting a person or another pet? If so, please share some context.:
He’s not aggressive against people or other animals. However, if another dog threatens him, he will try to fight back. Ex: my friends dog tried biting him when we’re all eating dinner because the other dog was food aggressive, so Gus starting nipping and growling back. He’s never hurt a human, but he gets excited and people sometimes get scared from his hair standing up. He’ll try jumping on new people, but he doesn’t try to hurt them.
How often does your dog require grooming (e.g., bathing, brushing, trimming)? :
I brush him every other week. His fur is short so it isn’t too big of an issue.
Does your dog have a dental care routine (e.g., brushing, chews, professional cleanings)?:
I give him chews once and awhile, and I’ve added drops of dog “mouthwash” into his water bowl. That isn’t a necessary but he also doesn’t mind it.
Personality:
Playful
Constant Companion
High Energy
Medium Energy
Low Energy
Stubborn
Timid
Needs Training
Friendly to Strangers
Good with Other Dogs
Good with Young Children
Good with Cats
Bonded Pair
Requires A Fenced Yard
Crate Trained
Purebred
How is your dog with other dogs?:
Friendly: Generally gets along well with other dogs.
How is your dog with cats?:
Selective: Gets along with some cats but not others.
What's the most endearing thing about your dog?:
He loves to cuddle and he “talks” to you when needs something or wants something. It’s super cute to hear him try speaking!
What criteria are important to you when considering an adoptive family or home for your pet?:
Someone who’s in a better position than my fiance and I. You should have the time to train him, as we are having schedule conflicts and are unable to give him all the attention he deserves.
Is there anything else you'd like your pet's new family to know?:
Gus has a lovable personality but he’s also stubborn.
Why are you rehoming your pet (primary reason)?:
Housing is Inadequate for Pet
Details about rehoming reason (if needed):
My fiance and I love our dog to the moon and back. However, he’s been having some behavioral issues that we can’t address or afford training to help him. We are expecting and we’ve noticed his progress has dialed back a lot since I started showing. I want to prioritize his well being, and I don’t think he’s getting any benefits from our current situation. I don’t want any issues once our baby is born, as well.
If applicable, do you have the legal right or necessary permission from the breeder or rescue organization to rehome this pet? :
How long will you be able to keep your pet before you may need to consider surrendering him or her to a rescue?:
Two months
Who is your veterinarian?:
He hasn’t been to the vet since we’ve moved across the state. His original vet was Copper Country Humane Society.
What do you feed your pet, and does he/she have any feeding quirks or preferences?:
He has never had a preference on dog food, he enjoys whatever he’s given. Although, I’ve noticed Nutri-Source has had positive effects on his skin and fur.
Do you currently have pet insurance?:
No
Would you consider a long-distance adoption?:
City, State:
Grand Rapids, MI
How did you hear about us?:
Veterinarian
Service Level:
Assistance Needed: Help Me Choose
