09/10/2023
Meet Leo!
If you've been hoping to add a playful and goofy Pug to your family, Leo is eager to meet you! He's fresh from the Dentist and ready to start a new life in his Forever Home. This handsome boy is between 4-5 years old and was surrendered to Colorado Pug Rescue in July. He was rescued from hoarding situation in Texas when he was just a year old. More recently, his home of three years was full of other dogs; one of them in particular (a Boston Terrier) was NOT Leo's biggest fan. This resulted in some "disputes", and though Leo was never the instigator, he does bear the resulting scars. His Mom there was concerned about her kids possibly getting hurt while breaking up a fight, plus he was having some dominance-related marking issues, so she turned him over to CPR in hopes of finding him a peaceful, conflict-free place to enjoy the Pug life.
Since he was used to having constant access to a doggie door and a fenced yard, it took a while for Leo to learn how to go potty outdoors at his foster home. His accidents were mostly near the small cat door, so he was trying his best to get outside! Leo will often wait until late in the day to go potty, regardless of being taken out often, so he begrudgingly wears a belly band sometimes. His foster Mom has a much easier time getting him to go potty if he is able to move about the yard freely. He doesn't like the leash when it's potty time, and will usually try to gnaw on it. If you're just out for a leisurely stroll, the leash doesn't bother him. For these reasons, Leo's ideal home will have a fenced yard, and ideally, a doggy door that he can access as needed. It will likely take some time for him to adjust, so potty accidents should be expected.
Always curious about his surroundings, Leo loves to explore. He will investigate any area that he can fit into and likes to hang out in small areas with low ceilings, like under a desk or coffee table. But his favorite place to be is with his people! Leo is very affectionate and hopes to share your couch or recliner, as well as your bed. Though he will sleep in his own bed if he's asked to, he'd rather occupy a spot at the foot of the mattress all night long.
Daily extra-strength OTC eye drops will help Leo's dry eyes, and he does have some vision impairment due to pigmentary keratitis. This inability to see clearly sometimes can result in a stumble on the stairs, or barking at someone he knows until they're close enough to smell. Other than daily eye drops, Leo currently has no known health issues and is a sturdy guy who has already lost a whole pound, per Dr.'s orders. He now weighs a svelt 29 lbs.!
One of the most notable things about Leo's personality is his varying moods. Mostly, he's pretty mellow. Sometimes, he's extra loving, sometimes overflowing with energy, and occasionally, he is fearful and shy. He only seems to exhibit signs of fear or apprehension around new people, or in environments with low lighting, presumably because of his reduced vision.
Besides cuddles and attention, Leo loves to play "Catch Me If You Can"; he waits until you get close enough to get him, and then away he goes, zooming around excitedly at top speeds! He always enjoys a good stuffed or squeaky toy and takes care of them, but will happily chew up any toys or treats that are specifically made for chewing. Because he prefers to be close to his people, he will try his hardest to get through a closed door when left alone, so it is recommended that Leo be crated during times when no one is home. He is not food-aggressive and is *mostly* potty trained. As stated, Leo is very unsure of all new people and environments, so it takes him a while to warm up. It is not known how he does with cats, but he's good with other dogs and kids.
If you'd like to apply to adopt Leo, please submit your adoption application by visiting our website. https://copugrescue.org/adopt-a-pug/
If you already have an application on file with us, please email the adoption coordinator. You would have received an email from them confirming receipt of your application at the time of submission.