Aileen came in as a Golden Opportunity -- and that description rings true!  She came into NRGRR with a group of dogs who had been living in an outdoor pen in a rural county. Typical of a dog that has had limited exposure to the big world, she was skittish with loud sounds and new people, but she is doing much better now. Because loud unfamiliar sounds can still startle her, we recommend a fenced yard as she will seek cover. 

She has learned the daily routines well and she likes sleeping in her crate. In the morning: Get up, go outside for business, and then she eagerly goes to her crate for breakfast. She is fed separately from the resident dog to avoid any issues and she likes that. While she is learning how to ask to go out, we do not rely on that, so we make sure she gets regular potty breaks. She likes walks and is responding to leash work to limit checking out all the possible smells along the way. She comes to the back door when called, but “come” is her only true command so far. 

Her personality is coming out more every week. She often follows her foster Mom around the house.  She was initially very scared of men, especially if they made quick movements. But she now loves her foster Dad and will greet men even at the vet’s office. She tolerates the smaller resident dog who wants her to join in zoomies, but she may gain more interest and confidence with another dog now that she is cleared from heartworm treatments. She has been bolder coming out of her corner/open crate area when the other dog is not in the living room.  She did quite well with a temporary foster that did not have another dog. She really liked the kindergarten-age boy there who was gentle with her and kept her water dish full. She has not been tested around multiple children or cats. 

Aileen would like a home where she could have breaks during the day, either with the adopters or someone who can visit at lunch. She has been in her crate for 4 to 5 hours without accidents. Her curiosity will require being in a “dog proof area” or crate,  at least until she gets settled. 

Aileen has been an easy foster and will be a fantastic furever friend.