Doak

When little Doak arrived at the shelter, I honestly didn't give him much thought. I figured, He's young, friendly, smart, extremely cute... He'll be adopted right away.

That was about a week ago, and I can't understand why he's still here. Maybe he comes across as too stand-offish; perhaps it's because his multi-colored eyes give him an unusual gaze. Or maybe his intense culinary fascination with all things green and grassy seems a little obsessive-compulsive in a puppy so young.

Doak knows a good vintage clover when he sees one...

I get the impression that Doak isn't unaffectionate or aloof; he's just a bit bored. For a four or five month-old puppy, he's got a lot of cleverness in that cute, fluffy head of his. Even if he'd received all of the social interaction that a growing pup needs, the odds are good that "fetch" or "chew on the squeaky toy" won't hold his attention forever. Although I might be wrong, Doak certainly gives the impression that his "working dog" bloodlines run deep and strong, and he'd be happiest with some invigorating challenges to keep his mind and body sharp.

That said, little Doak has plenty of aptitude in the fine arts of snuggles and affection as well.

UPDATE 1/22: Doak was rescued! We're so glad he's safe and on the way to being a great pet.

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Moon

Moon is a stunningly beautiful Border Collie with a great personality, so we're not really worried about whether or not she gets adopted. She will. She's not too big, very pretty, friendly to everyone and a volunteer favorite. Our concern is that she end up with the right household; one that can give her enough exercise, mental challenges and something to DO so that she does not become bored and therefore destructive.

Her previous owners relinquished her for the reason "Not enough time." It's a frequent refrain and with a Border Collie, it is not surprising. These dogs are bred to herd flocks, and in the city, flocks can be cats, wildlife or the neighborhood kids. They are also considered by many experts to be THE smartest breed of dog. Therefore they need owners who can keep them challenged and give them a job to do every single day. This is not a lawn ornament nor a dog for a couch potato or lazy owner. Imagine you are a teacher and someone has placed a hyperactive Einstein in your care and you have some idea of the challenges of this breed.

Moon is such a lovebug and eager to learn. She's not shown any aggression toward cats, people or other dogs but she does need some basic training. Her desire to chase the birds outside the shelter or to round up people and dogs as they walked across the parking lot made for some fast and desperate leash-grabs. She would likely do best in a household with another dog to keep her company when her people are away, and a firm but loving owner will win her respect. Border Collies should not be bullied or intimidated. They are too smart for that. Give Moon a reason to adore you and plenty to do, and she'll be your best friend forever.

UPDATE (Sept 25): Ms. Moon was picked up yesterday (as were, thankfully, several dogs) by a rescue group. That is happy news, indeed.

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Shasta

I don't normally think of Chows as being black; my experience has mostly been with red ones like Harlan. In fact, the only black Chow I've ever had any prolonged dealings with was a much-less-than-friendly neighborhood bully who lived downstairs from me many years ago. Shasta, probably a Chow/Border Collie or Shepherd mix of some type, falls about as far from that as a dog can.

When we first met, I wasn't sure what to make of her. She was frightened and uncertain, and wrinkled her nose oddly when she sniffed my hand (I later realized that her nose just does that). I had to pick Shasta up and carry her outside because she was so afraid; but after getting the feel of grass under her feet, she did a complete turn-around. Inquisitive, adventurous and affectionate - a far cry from the shivering, cowering bundle of fur in her kennel.

Shasta's a girl who knows just what she wants, too. When I had to run out to my car to look for some kitten-feeding supplies, she vaulted up into the car, hopped over to the passenger seat, and curled up in anticipation of a road-trip adventure. And when it was time to go back to her kennel, she sprawled on the floor in protest. I picked her up, and she wrapped her front paws around my neck, licking my cheek imploringly. She hammed her way dramatically all the way to her door, where she calmly hopped down for a drink of water. I half expected her to take a bow.

UPDATE: Shasta got to take that road-trip today when she was reunited with her owner. We're so very glad that she found her way back home!