Entered: 01/28/2006
Status: Adopted
Age: 0
Color: Liver/White
Weight:
Gender: Altered Female
Location: Princeton, NJ
Health: Being treated for ear and urinary tract infections
Temperament:
Original: Ripley, now known as Riley by her pals, came into rescue because a new puppy in her family was tormenting her. Also, one of the family members had developed asthma/allergies. At 50 pounds, with long legs and large paws, Riley is a big springer, towering over the two resident springers in her foster home. She has had a major haircut, and in no time at all, her beautiful coat and feathering will grow out. She has very curly ears and freckles in all the right places. The wounds inflicted to her ears by the puppy have healed, and she no longer appears to be afraid to allow them to be touched.
Riley’s overall physical health appears to be good with some minor needs requiring veterinary attention. She is being treated for infections in both ears and for a urinary tract infection.
Riley’s emotional health also needs some special attention. Her foster family is working on this with the assistance of behavioral experts. Riley is extremely shy and frightened of just about everything. Having a leash put on, to go outside for a potty break, can cause her to empty her bladder on the spot. She will need to be slowly transitioned into crate training. Riley will go into a crate, but once the door is opened to let her out, the same submissive behavior occurs. Aside from the submissive behavior, she is housebroken and not at all destructive, so her foster family has put crate training on hold until she builds up her confidence.
When Riley first arrived at her foster home, she was so afraid at night that she would squeeze under her foster mom’s bed. Of course, being so big, she would get stuck and whimper. She now sleeps on her blanket for which her foster family is so appreciative. As time goes on, the hope is to see a new girl emerge with a comfort in her surroundings.
Visits to the local dog park are favorite opportunities for Riley. When at the dog park, Riley runs and chases tennis balls and Frisbees. She has gained renown as a “fetching maniac.” She knows “sit” and “lay down” and will come with a whistle, as long as you have your back turned to her. This is another example of her fear issues. She pulls on the leash like she’s running in the Iditarod and simply needs training in this area, too. Riley rides very quietly in the car but should start out on an empty tummy so as to keep it settled for the entire trip.
In her original home, Riley lived with children but was kept separate from them by a baby gate. It is unknown at this time how she would feel about little ones if nose to nose. She currently lives with two very active springers and two old cats but she does not interact with them right now.
Riley is a very sweet, beautiful, laid-back girl who will make a wonderful companion for the right family. She’s experiencing patient and knowledgeable attention in her foster home which will help her become a confident and secure gal. Updates on her progress will be added soon…stay tuned!!