Looking for Shirley’s Temple

February 04, 2015

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Everyone meet Shirley. Shirley is 2ish years old and is currently in foster with Priceless Pet Rescue. This beautiful dog came to them pregnant and like most pregnant mom dogs, all her puppies found homes and she is still looking for hers. It’s hard to believe such a beautiful Golden Retriever mix is still available for adoption. I’m gonna break Shirley down for you today….

The Good:

She is housetrained and listens rather well. She does do well with other dogs and learns very quickly. At first glance, she seems like she’s full of energy but she’s actually very calm. She doesn’t chew on things or do any of that “puppy stuff”. All she really needs is a home where she can stay inside most of the time but she does do very well in an outside kennel.

The Bad:

Shirley has been adopted 3 times and returned. The first home she went to, she bit. She was adopted on a Saturday morning, brought over to a friend’s house where she bit and was returned the next day. The second home she went to; she actually stayed there for about 3 months. This home had no children and she did not bite anyone. However, Shirley was returned because her owner was a student and felt she didn’t have enough time for her. The third home, which seemed to be the best situation, didn’t work out either. It was a mom and a daughter. The mom lived in a back house and the daughter lived in the front house with a dog named Lucy. However, the two dogs played too rough and it was decided that Shirley needed a home with more structure.

The Reality:

Shirley needs to be in a home with no young kids. Even though she has bitten, she is actually a very sweet dog. She needs someone who is willing to work with her. I think her biggest strength may be her biggest weakness. I think people see that she’s a Golden Retriever and expect her to just be this “perfect dog” right off the bat. Shirley would do exceptionally well with someone who has dog experience. She’s not a “first time owner” type of dog. She needs an owner who is calm, patient and consistent. She needs structure. And while it seems that Shirley may need a lot, all the things I’ve listed are things EVERY dog owner should be giving their dogs. This isn’t about making Shirley the perfect dog, it’s about finding the perfect family for Shirley. I know they’re out there somewhere. Until then, she will be in foster with her awesome foster family while Priceless Pets does all they can to find that perfect family. Hang in there, Shirley, we’ll find your temple soon enough!