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Dogs like Chrissy are amazing. When faced with adversity or neglect, they are resilient and ready to trust the next human who shows them some kindness. Chrissy's story demonstrates how quickly some dogs can bounce back. All it takes is some love and attention.
Chrissy's owners decided to surrender her to ADS because they felt they could no longer deal with what they diagnosed as behavioral problems. Unfortunately, they chose not to engage a professional trainer to evaluate the behavior or to commit time working with her so that they could keep her. So, Chrissy was surrendered to ADS about 30 pounds overweight and with severe ear infections in both ears. We immediately began treating Chrissy's ears and put her on a healthy regimen recommended for a 6 year old spayed female.
We're happy to report that this girl has proven to not only be sociable, but to be well-behaved in her foster home that she shares with two other Lab mixes. In fact, she was Miss Congeniality with everyone -- human and canine -- at her first adoption event. We wouldn't recommend Chrissy to live in a home with cats, as she gets just a little TOO excited when she sees one. Her new foster mom thinks she is up for the challenge of starting the next phase in her life. Here's what she reports:
~ Chrissy LOVES to play fetch, though we are sticking
to soft stuffed toys right now
~ she gets along really well with other dogs,
even my temperamental alpha, Lucy
~ she doesn't let her weight slow her down,
runs up and down the stairs
~ she gives kisses on request
~ she knows the commands: come, sit, down,
stay, "drop it", outside and "go potty"
I think she's really looking forward to her new healthplan:
1) proper portioned meals of weight-loss kibble,
green beans and fresh carrots,
2) daily walks in the evenings, indoor fetch in the
afternoon, and
3) as much playtime as she wants with her
foster siblings. :)
Chrissy needs a new family that will love her enough to make sure she receives the best of care, and practices a little tough love when it comes to food and treats. She deserves a family that will love her and give her attention each and every day. Please check out Chrissy if you want a personable, well-behaved dog that simply needs to be loved.
Update from Chrissy's foster family:
Chrissy has been staying with us for 8 weeks now, and we're happy to report she's lost 13 lbs! She now weighs in at a bouncy 86lbs. She still has a way to go to reach a healthy weight for a lab her size, but she already has more energy and just the best attitude ever. Her eyes are bright, her coat is shiny, and she walks around with a constant “grin” on her face. Her ear infections were completely healed within the first week. (Thanks to ADS and the awesome vets!)
She mastered the house rules faster than any other foster we've ever had. Even complicated ones like when it IS and IS NOT OK to get on the couch or the bed. She gets along really well with our dogs and every human she meets. She's well-behaved at adoptions. She loves to go for rides in the car, and does so quietly and calmly.
We didn't hire expensive trainers, we didn't have to get fancy training aids or leashes. All we do is feed her properly, play with her a little every day, and love her. Like most Labs, she has responded to the positive reinforcement more quickly than any treat or toy offered. She does love her tennis balls, tho. She will literally fetch them until she can’t run anymore.
The family that adopts Chrissy will have hit the jackpot. She’s a big barrel of love, hugs, and slobbery kisses. She is quite possibly the perfect dog.
The latest Chrissy Update:
Our family is very happy to report that after 4 months in foster care, Chrissy under 80lbs and on regular dog food! She plays ball a little every day and still has to watch the snacks, but she's happy and healthy and has some real bounce in her step!
Chrissy is very strong on the leash, so we are working on her leash training. She's a low-to-medium energy dog that basically just wants to be doing whatever you're doing. She's equally happy to snuggle with you on the couch in front of the TV, or to fetch the ball for as long as you can throw it.
She is a happy, gentle giant of a dog and a joy to be around.
After one month: 91 lbs
At intake: 99 lbs
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