Available - Rufus

My story

Socialization/Training:  Rufus is a sweetheart who is very much loved by his foster-dad.  He loves all people and greets strangers and friends alike by sitting down in front of them and receiving all the pets.  If he’s on the ground, he’ll offer up the belly for rubs immediately.  While he loves everyone, he is a very happy and energetic boy so needs to be watched closely with young children to ensure he doesn’t knock them over.  While Rufus is high energy, he does settle nicely inside when foster-dad settles.  Since he is such a people person, my recommendation would be a home where he won’t be alone 40 hours a week. Rufus hasn’t been socialized with other dogs beyond chance encounters while walking.  While curious about them, Rufus is never reactive unless he’s responding to a reactive dog.  Because of his high prey-drive, he’ll need a house without cats. Rufus knows the basic commands of come, sit, laydown, and is working on stay.  He’s very smart and treat-motivated so tends to pick up things quickly.  He is a setter so does have a bit of a stubborn streak but that abates as he begins to trust and bond with his people.  Rufus is also fully housetrained and hasn’t had one accident in his foster home.    Crate Trained:  Yes, Rufus is crate-trained but sleeps outside his crate on a bed next to his foster-dad’s bed.  Rufus has also been given the run of the house when nobody is home with no issues. Leash Trained:  Rufus does have a high prey-drive and as a result the leash training is ongoing.  He has improved tremendously over the weeks he’s been with his foster-dad but still tries to control the walk.  It can also be a challenge to get him to settle once he’s triggered by another reactive dog, close encounter with a squirrel, or low-flying bird, etc.  Fence:  Rufus is fully trained on the electric fence.   He doesn’t challenge the boundaries now that he’s aware of their location.  At the beginning of his stay, Rufus also showed some escape tendencies, bolting for open doors.  That too has abated since his arrival and freedom to roam the yard while supervised but would still require a vigilant home with at least a 6-foot fence.  Also recommend a large yard so he can run out some of his energy.     Activity Level/Behavior:  Rufus is a total cuddle-bug inside.  He loves all people, loves to eat, and is a big fan of squeaky toys.  He is high energy outside but settles well inside.  Once he establishes trust, he listens well.  Medical History:  Rufus is neutered, microchipped, and up to date on all vaccinations and monthly heartworm and flea/tick medication.  He has no known health issues.  Foster Comments:  I’ve essentially loved Rufus from the start.  On his first night with me after an 8 hour, 7 leg transport he was sound asleep on his back in my lap.  He truly hasn’t met anybody he doesn’t love and as long as all food items are put away, he’s a total gentleman in the house.  Outside has been an adventure but he’s improved tremendously since I’ve had him.  He still pulls on walks but with less enthusiasm and strength than he did so initially.  And getting trained on the invisible fence was a game-changer since he is now able to burn off his energy chasing birds, butterflies, etc.  He’ll need a house with a large yard with either a 6 foot fence or an invisible fence.  He’ll also need somebody who will be patient with him as he settles and work with him on the leash.  After that, all you’ll need to do is love him and he’ll make the best companion.  Foster Location:  Clarence, NY Volunteer transport can be arranged in the Continental US within a 1,000-mile distance between adopters & foster home. If interstate transport is provided for your adopted dog, there will be an additional charge of $75.00 for the required Certificate of Veterinary Inspection.  Typically, we are able to transport your adopted dog to within 2 hours of your home. *Dogs can be adopted outside the 1000-mile transport distance; however, adopters must be willing to either fly their adopted dog, drive to a location within the 1000-mile transport range, or make independent transport arrangements for their adopted dog. Transports to far Western states, from Eastern states, may have additional restrictions. ##2142012##

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