My Foster Dogs

Fostered August 23 - October 24, 2003
Adopted October 24, 2003
Sex: Neutered male
Age: about 3 years
Breed: boxer
Size: 55 lbs.
History: Rufus was confiscated by a humane agent in June because the owners were not taking care of him. He was extremely thin (33 lbs) and tested heartworm positive. He stayed at the shelter for most of his heartworm treatment before going into foster care. He tested negative for heartworm on Sept. 8! His activity level will continue to be restricted through mid-October as a precaution. He will be released for adoption pending a vet check to confirm that his heart and lungs are in good condition. He seems healthy but we want to be sure he is totally recovered before adoption.
Good with: Everyone! He adores people, including kids, and seems to have a special touch with people in wheelchairs. He would probably make a great therapy dog because he is neither aggressive nor fearful, relaxed in any setting, and loves everyone. He enjoys playing with other dogs. UPDATE ON CATS: Rufus has gotten over his initial fascination with our cat. He can now walk by and calmly sniff him or just ignore him. He will still probably chase if the cat runs, but I don't anticipate any problems if there are cats in his new home.
Best feature(s): Rufus has been through a lot and he really seems to appreciate the simple things that many dogs take for granted... a soft bed, a bowl of kibble, or a loving pat. He doesn't ask for much and is very easygoing, whether you're lounging around watching TV together or going for a slow, relaxing walk.
Training: Rufus knows sit, down, and shake. He is housetrained and walks very nicely on a leash. He is learning to fetch!
Needs: Rufus needs a patient owner who will help him to overcome his separation anxiety. He drools profusely and howls in his crate. This is partly due to separation anxiety, and partly because he just doesn't like being crated! The vet prescribed benedryl to help him relax when he is home alone.

UPDATE ON SEPARATION ANXIETY: We have been working to slowly wean Rufus off the crate when he is home alone. He now stays in the kitchen when we are gone. He is much calmer without the crate, though he still shows some moderate anxiety (pacing, whining, knocking over the trash, housetraining accidents). He only exhibits these behaviors when left alone. According to a recent videotape, he doesn't bark or howl when left in the kitchen. (Yay!) He has shown no signs of destructiveness whatsoever. (When he knocked over the trash, he didn't even chew any of it!)

Ideally his new owner will help him get used to being alone by leaving him for very short periods at first and gradually extending them when he seems calm enough. Click here to learn more about separation anxiety.

A home with other dogs (or regular access to other dogs) is preferred. Rufus loves to have playmates, and he is more relaxed when he has canine company.