New
Laddie is an OR due to family circumstances. He is 5 years old, 14″ tall, 20 pounds, now UTD, neutered, has had a recent dental, is heartworm/fecal negative. He came to HSS with Marley and Sue Ann but is the most timid. He is comfortable around other dogs and will need a home with another dog – one that will be good with him following them around and learning the ropes. He hasn’t tried to really play directly, but he joins in with them for a good game of “run the fences with the neighbor dogs.”
Laddie has had little to no socialization and will require someone who can be VERY patient with him. There really is no telling what he will do once he comes out of his shell, but that could be awhile from now.
Laddie rides well in a car, without getting sick, but it isn’t his favorite thing to do. He finds a corner to duck his head in. Then, to get him out of the car, he has to be picked up. Most likely he doesn’t know any commands, including recall, but even if he did, he is too scared to respond.
For the first few days in his foster home, he was walked in the back yard on a leash. It was discovered he does better off leash and even shows a little bit of spirit. When Laddie is off leash and out of the direct eyesight of any humans, he relaxes and enjoys his time outside. Even more, he has started to relax when his foster mom comes outside. He wags his tail now and with each passing day, gets a little bit closer to her.
Laddie eats well when left alone and loves his treats but isn’t confident enough to take them from someone’s hand. He is potty trained. If not outside, he chooses to return to his safe space – a kennel, blanket or dog bed away from the activity. He has shown no aggression at all but due to being so timid often assumes the “pancake position” getting as flat as he can.
Laddie may always be a flight risk, so a secure yard is best. He is also so scared of noises that walking him or traveling with him would most likely not be something he would tolerate well, at least for now.
Laddie will sit in your lap and let you cuddle him. Though he has a scared, timid look on his face, he has been nothing but sweet from the beginning. His tail wags and the safe look in his eyes is really great to see. Hopefully that continues over time and one day, his new family will get to see a different side of him. Patience is the key with Laddie. It will pay off.
