Gavin

My story

Meet Gavin! This handsome guy came to us from the euthanasia list at MCACC after he was surrendered there for the second time. The first time, his owners didn’t report any behavioral problems or other issues, just that they couldn’t keep him. He was adopted again quickly, but returned shortly thereafter because of behavior they found troubling, such as jumping up on their teenager and chasing after their toddler. That behavior and his history of being returned landed him on the E-list. Based on reports from the shelter, we had a feeling that he was simply acting like a typical husky puppy rather than displaying any real aggression. During our initial evaluation, we confirmed that Gavin is indeed just a young, playful boy who loves attention. Luckily, we were able to get him transferred into a foster home with plenty of breed experience and give him the second chance he deserves. Gavin adjusted easily to his new home, quickly learning the routine and getting comfortable. After less than a day, he was readily seeking out snuggles with his foster humans and initiating play with the other dogs in the home. He loves getting attention from anybody to the point of climbing into your lap if he gets the chance. It was immediately clear that he’s just a baby husky who’s trying to figure things out, but he learns fast. He’s quick to figure out when a certain behavior isn’t getting a reward and adjust accordingly. He doesn’t display destructive behavior like a lot of dogs his age, and he easily gives up things he shouldn’t have. He does get excited and jump on people when they come in the house, but he is improving. He’s endearingly vocal, and he has become more and more comfortable in a crate during his time in his foster home. If there’s one thing Gavin loves more than getting attention from humans, it’s other dogs. He gets along well with the other energetic large breeds in his foster home. He has no problem keeping up with their rambunctious play style, but he’ll communicate politely when it’s too much. He has not been tested around cats or smaller dogs, and his puppy-like energy may be overwhelming for dogs that are older or more subdued. He also loves going on walks, so much so that he’ll spin in happy circles if he thinks you’re grabbing his leash. He does pull on leash, but it’s getting better with training. He hasn’t figured out how to play with most toys, but he does like appropriate chews and playing tug with other dogs. All in all, Gavin is a happy-go-lucky boy who found himself on the E-list due simply to bad luck and being a young husky. He’s so happy to be in a loving home and is, in many ways, already an easy dog to live with. We have no doubt that he’ll continue to improve with a little bit of training and some consistent boundaries. He would make a great addition to any dog-savvy home, though we’re recommending a home without small children due to his energy levels. Based on his howling when left home alone, we do think that he would be happiest in a home with at least one other dog. If you’re looking for a sweet, biddable pup to be your new adventure buddy, Gavin is the dog for you. If you’re interested in adoption, please fill out an application on our website to meet this adorable boy. https://azhuskyrescue.com/adoption-application/

If you have any questions or would like to adopt Gavin, please reach out to the adoption group directly. PetSmart Charities does not facilitate the adoption process. Thank you.