Derby

My story

Derby has adapted quickly to being in a home, having gone from rather anxious the first few days out of the shelter, to being much more confident and able to lie down and chill, even figuring out how to get along with another dog, our goofy Golden Retriever who is unfortunately rather indifferent to him, so Derby gives him space. The first afternoon in our house, Derby marked a few places, but after that, he never did it again. He is housebroken and doesn't seem to poop more than once a day. Here's gone from gulping his food in about one minute to going slower, even in a regular bowl; I think that he now trusts that there will be more at the next meal time. Walking him Is a relaxing process, as he likes to stop and smell the roses... and the grass, the trees, the telephone poles... and other dogs. We're working on his staying to one side when he walks with me. When I've jogged short distances at City Park with him leashed, he's happy to run along. He's still and a bit skittish with loud sounds like the garbage truck, or other loud outdoor machines. But it is endearing to see his amazing transformation from anxious to calm in less than a week. He loves curling in our soft-sided crate when he's tired, and he sleeps well in it. I play him soothing instrumental music when we leave the house, or when it's bedtime, and he drifts off to sleep. He watches all my moves in the kitchen, enjoys blueberries, clementines, and strawberries, but doesn't beg. He's quite patient that way, and he seems to generally understand when I firmly say, No, such as if he wants to climb on the sofa when I'm lying on it. Derby is as sweet a dog as you will ever find. He loves being petted, and snuggling with his head on my lap. If I could permanently house two dogs, he'd be staying here.

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