Poe

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Although MAESSR is a Springer rescue, sometimes non-Springers enter the program due to difficulties in differentiating Springers from similar sporting breeds from a head photo only. Long ago the policy was made that “once a MAESSR dog, always a MAESSR dog. MAESSR’s commitment to assessment, care and placement is the same for non-Springers as for Springers.

Though Poe has the heart of a Springer, his foster family has determined that he is an English cocker. He came into MAESSR’s care along with his brothers Smokey IV and Chip VIII when their Maryland owner could no longer care for them properly. 

Poe had spent his entire life in a kennel and had not had much human interaction or socialization. Understandably, when he came to his foster home, he was quite nervous and shy at first. But within just two days, this boy was like a different dog, much more confident and outgoing. He just loves getting attention from his foster parents or anyone else who will give him a cuddle. He is always looking to make friends with everyone. He recently met some children and just loved them, and on recent trips to the groomer, coffee shop, and dog park, he soon made plenty of new friends, charming everyone!

In between cuddles, Poe loves to play with the two resident Springers, who have been very tolerant of his frolicsome, puppy-like antics. He likes to initiate play and can be very persistent, even getting the older dog in the household to join in. He is a submissive boy and will throw himself down in front of the other dogs, rollover, and show them his belly. Poe dove right in when he discovered the doggie toy box; he got every toy out to play with and really entertained himself. 

Poe is working on his housetraining. The challenge is getting him to concentrate long enough, as he associates outside with playtime; having a dog door doesn’t help, although it’s good he knows how to use it! Poe’s foster mom is working with him on this. Poe had no training prior to rescue and did not know any commands, but he is quickly learning some that are essential for acquiring house manners like off, out, no, and leave it. One of the best things about little Poe is that when his name is called, he comes racing from wherever he is – what a good boy! It’s clear he loves people and is very eager to please. After some initial skepticism, he learned how to walk on the leash and loves to go for mid-day walks with his dog walker and the other Springers in the home. Poe responds well to verbal commands and is very keen to please you. He would really enjoy going to obedience classes. This would help reinforce the good manners Poe is learning in his foster home and help him bond with his new family. 

During the day Poe has the run of the downstairs of the house and of the fenced yard, and he has proven completely trustworthy with no damage or accidents. He does try to get up on the sofa, just because he wants to get into your lap for a cuddle – at least that’s what he uses as an excuse! He also loves to jump up and lean against people so he can be closer to them. He is working on this and is quickly learning what off means. Poe tends to get a little scared in the car, and will initially try to escape, but once on the road, he settles down. At night, Poe sleeps in his foster parents’ bedroom in a crate where he can see them. He settles right down and will sleep through the night provided he relieves himself outside before bed. He is a bit of a restless sleeper, however, and doesn’t like anything inside his crate. 

Poe is a medium energy level dog and at times seems quite puppy-like. He loves to play and be active, but also loves to settle down next to you for some petting or brushing or just to chill. He would love to be in an active household with people coming and going and lots of activity. Children and dogs could be in his forever home, too, since he really loves to play! 

This sweet, gentle boy is great fun to be around. Poe is eagerly awaiting his new forever home and family!