05/13/2023
We’ve been working hard with this kid. We’re on our 2nd trainer (the 1st one we weren’t comfortable with the methods of “corrections”) and we had a consult with a behaviorist last week. Shiloh’s biggest challenges are excitability and over arousal which ultimately leads him into anxiety, lack of impulse control, restlessness, inability to calm and behave appropriately. Unfortunately, the kennel environment is the worst for working on these behaviors since dogs will often be in a state of hyper arousal and cannot calm themselves. When he was in a private home for those weeks during his board and train, she said he was quite calm and settled and because of this I feel like there is potential.
Shiloh isn’t a “bad” dog but I feel like he’s emotionally and mentally suffering. While physical exercise is great, it is not enough. We’ve started him on medication to see if this helps while I search for a foster home so he can be in a more stable and calm environment. This is my second time in all of our years in rescue that I am at a loss on how to help a dog and knowing what to do. Some have suggested euthanasia being more humane but I can’t even stomach that. I also know there are worse things than euthanasia when it comes to suffering but we want to exhaust every possible option before even considering that. Finding a foster home to evaluate how he does is a bit like a Hail Mary. If he doesn’t thrive in a home environment, I suppose we will have that to consider.
So what kind of foster home are we looking for?
Someone dog savvy and someone who can dedicate time and effort.
All and any expenses are paid.
Shiloh knows all basic commands and is great on leash in environments he is familiar with. He is great with people and does ok with dogs that aren’t in his face and that ignore him but will need to be an only dog for starters while he gets comfortable.
He is NOT dog reactive on leash and can walk past and with dogs with no issues.
A home with no small animals due to his high prey drive.
He has been around children and done well but during this time we would want him in a child free home. Shiloh loves to play frisbee and ball but needs to be with someone who can trade him for these items(with a higher valued item)when he is over aroused.
We will continue to pay for all training classes and anything else he needs. He is crate trained, house trained and sleeps well in his kennel. If you are local to NH and are interested in fostering please email [email protected]
