Billy

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Original:

Billy was found as a stray and taken to Red Lion Animal Control and Rescue Shelter. MAESSR was contacted and Billy was turned over to his foster home. Once taken to his foster home, he was sprayed for fleas and then given a double bath to remove the dead fleas and dirt. 

The people at the shelter think that Billy is a product of a puppy mill. His foster mom is inclined to agree because Billy is small for a male. He was taken to the vet on October 9th to be neutered and a x-ray was taken because he sometimes stumbles when he walks or climbs stairs. The x-ray showed that Billy has left hip dysplasia. The dysplasia is severe enough that he will need surgery before being placed. Billy will remain in foster care until he has had the surgery and recovered from it. 

Billy has a small abdominal hernia that the vet said was not a problem. Billy was tested for diabetes and kidney disease because he likes to drink a lot of water. The test came back negative. He is on the thin side and is currently being fed three times a day. Billy weighs 28.4 pounds.

Despite the dysplasia, Billy is a high energy pup who loves to run in the backyard with his two foster sisters. He loves to retrieve any thrown ball or stuffed toy and will bring it back to you so he can do it all over again. He is a very gentle treat-taker. Billy is a bit hyper but will sit still long enough for you to shower him with ear scratches and hugs.

Billy is being housebroken and crate-trained. He will whine and bark in the crate at night. His foster family hopes this will work its self out soon. When he is in a playful mood he will chase the family cats but doesn’t hurt them. Billy does not counter surf, bother the toilet or the trash, but will not hesitate to steal food off of a low lying unattended plate. Because he is a high energy dog, he should not be placed in a home with small children. He walks ok on a leash. He’s not a puller but weaves back and forth to check out all the new scents.

He recognizes his name; understands sit, come, out and crate. Billy could benefit from obedience classes. 

Update: 11/15/02

Billy’s surgeon feels that it is not necessary for Billy to have hip surgery.

Update: 2/2003

Billy finally found his forever home!