Entered: 06/01/2006
Status: Adopted
Age: 10 weeks
Color: Black/White
Weight:
Gender: Altered Male
Location: Richmond, VA
Health: UTD for his age, HW-, has undergone corrective dentistry, good in all other areas
Temperament: Good with all people, good with dogs, cat’s unknown
Updated 6/14/06: Rafe’s adventures continue. A severe overbite was identified, and he has now undergone dental surgery which involved pulling his lower canines. Due to the overbite, his lower canine teeth were pushing into the roof of his mouth. If nothing had been done, Rafe would have been in great pain and likely, holes in the roof of his mouth would have been created. At a minimum, he would have had mouth issues for the rest of his life.
The veterinary dentist provided an age for Rafe, 14 weeks, and also a very positive prognosis. We should know exactly how he is doing after 7 weeks from the surgery. With the baby canines removed, there may be some elongating/growth of his lower jaw. His adult canine teeth will come in at 24 weeks and, hopefully, will come in as they should. If not, further revision and surgery may be necessary.
Rafe has been neutered since coming into foster care. He has excelled at housetraining and is now very reliable. He continues to charm everyone he meets. He hasn’t met an animal or person that he doesn’t love although birds on the ground and squirrels give him a good reason to chase. He is a terrific puppy and will make a lucky family a wonderful life companion.
Original: Rafe’s life took a wonderful turn when a neighborly Good Samaritan intervened and took possession of him. His first owners were not attentive to his needs and harm could have come to him without her involvement. The very special neighbor contacted MAESSR and Rafe came into foster care.
Rafe is all puppy. He loves playing with the other dogs in his foster home and would play endlessly if given the opportunity. He loves to go on walks and shows great curiosity with people and animals. While he enjoys “exploring”, he is very much a cuddler and likes to be with his foster mom. He loves company, be it people or other dogs.
Housebreaking is coming along as is crate training. Rafe loves the praise he receives when he does right and combined with his willingness to please, this training will be successful in short time. Rafe has a full tail and when praised or happy, his entire rear and tail beat wildly — a very cute sight!
Rafe is currently sleeping in a crate at night. He cries some but then will settle right down and sleep through the night. Rafe is a puppy who is full of spirit with much love to give. He’ll be neutered shortly and then ready to play and cuddle with his forever family!!!