Foster Dog: Erin (aka Stevie)
Foster Dog Location (city): Richmond, VA
Gender: female
Age/weight: 1 ½ – 2 years/41 lbs.
Spayed/Neutered: No, but she is scheduled to be spayed in July.
Basic intro/highlights: Erin (Stevie) has been a joy to foster. She is full of joy and energy. She is one of the cutest, smartest, sweetest dogs I’ve had the privilege to meet. She has yet to meet someone who is not immediately her friend and/or fan. She’s very silly and very smart. She would excel with a house with other dogs that are willing to play and are active.
General Activity Level: She is a very active dog with a lot of energy. She loves being outside and playing in the backyard. We go on lots of walks, and she loves playing with other dogs. She is a little energizer bunny but is a very good cuddler at the end of the day.
Interaction with dogs: She thrives with other dogs. To quell some of her energy, I take her to my parents while I’m in the office so she can play with their 3 dogs, and that is when she is living her best life. She loves to play, and I have seen no signs of aggression. She loves being part of the pack.
Interaction with cats: She was cat-tested at the shelter before coming to the rescue and did great.
Interaction with children: N/A. She hasn’t been around children while in my care, but I cannot see her being aggressive with anyone.
Physical fence required? Yes
Is physical fence an absolute requirement, or flexible? I’d say yes, it’s required. She really likes being outside and running around.
How many hours are they able to be left alone?
I’ve left her in a crate for 4-5 hours max. I left her alone in my room and she did do some damage, however, when left alone at my parents’ house with their dogs, she has no problems.
Able to climb stairs? Yes
Health concerns: She has tested positive for Lyme disease but has no symptoms. More than likely the test indicates that she was exposed (not active disease) but her vet may recommend a repeat test and additional labs to determine if she should be treated with antibiotics.
What basic commands are known? Reliable or still learning? She knows how to sit. She is a very smart dog. We do puzzles with training treats, etc. I just have not taught her any commands besides sitting. She comes when called very well.
How does he or she walk on a leash, and what do you use (collar, harness, etc.)? I have started using a harness because she is very eager on walks. She likes to walk in zig zags and smell everything in sight. She’s not terrible on a leash, but she’s also not trained on one either.
In need of obedience training? She could benefit from a little training, but not much. She is super smart and picks up on things quickly.
Personality and additional information:
She is as goofy as she can be! She is so sweet and an excellent companion. She likes to be around people and dogs and doesn’t like being alone so much. She loves her toys, elk antlers, Kong toys, and anything that can keep her engaged and active.
