As Good as Gold - Golden Retriever Rescue of Illinois

10/09/2024

Tito's handmade vodka will donate $1 to As Good as Gold for every puptail cocktail sold in September at Ortmanns!

See flyer for more details!

10/09/2024

Fostering - We Need Your Help!

🐾 Thinking About Fostering? Here’s Why It’s Worth a Leap of Faith! 🐾

Hey friends! We understand that the idea of fostering a dog, especially if you’ve never done it before, can feel a bit daunting. It’s perfectly normal to have concerns, but we want to share why fostering is such a rewarding experience and why you should consider giving it a try. Your courage to take this step could be the reason a dog finds their forever family.

🌟 Why Foster?
1. Change a Life: By fostering, you give a dog a second chance at a happy life. You’re not just providing a home; you’re offering love, security, and a fresh start.
2. Support System: You’re never alone! We provide vet care, and ongoing support so you can focus on the joy of fostering.
3. Flexible Commitment: You can choose how long you want to foster, and we can match you with a dog that fits your lifestyle and experience level.

❤️ Your Concerns, Our Answers:
• “What if I get too attached?” It’s natural to bond with these sweet pups, but the joy of seeing them find their forever home is incredibly fulfilling.
• “What if I don’t know what to do?” We’re here to guide you every step of the way. Our team provides training and tips to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
• “What if it’s too much work?” Fostering does require effort, but it’s manageable, especially with our support. Plus, the rewards are more than worth it!

If you’ve ever thought about making a difference but hesitated, now is the perfect time to give fostering a try.

Ready to save a golden? Reach out to us today and let’s start this rewarding journey together: [email protected]

10/09/2024

Love and Rescue Fundraising Event!


The Love & Rescue fundraising event on September 21st is As Good as Gold’s largest in-person event of 2024. The $40 per ticket price includes an Italian buffet luncheon, tickets for two drinks, a 50/50 raffle, a silent auction, and music provided by Johnny Russler & the Beach Bum Band, a local group that has a national reputation for its trop-rock music (think Jimmy Buffett laid back beach music).

So put on your flip-flops & tropical shirts and join other members of As Good as Gold as we raise funds for the golden retrievers rescued by our organization. Please note that, given the size of the venue, this is a “humans only” event.

Woodstock is having their “Art Fair on the Square” that day, so you can come out early and enjoy this quaint town where Bill Murray’s “Groundhog Day” was filmed.

Would you be willing to be a sponsor?
Make a donation?
Buy a ticket?

Purchase a ticket, donation, or sponsorship here:
https://www.asgoodasgold.org/love-and-rescue-a-fundraising-event/

From everyone at As Good as Gold, and especially those dogs you help, thank you again for your support.

09/09/2024

CHARLEY - AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!

Fast Facts
* 1.5-year-old male
* Medium energy
* Housetrained (mostly)
* Shy but making progress
* Good with other dogs; unknown regarding cats
* Good with most adults; building confidence around men
* Mentor dog and fenced-in yard required
* Enjoys walks and outdoor playtime

INTRODUCTION As told by Charley

Hey there, I’m Charley, and I come with a story of resilience and hope. At just 1.5 years old and tipping the scales at 50 pounds, I may seem a bit shy and timid, but deep down, I’m a pup with a heart of gold searching for my forever home.

Like many retired breeder pups, my journey hasn’t been without its hurdles. When I first landed in the care of my foster family, I was a shrinking violet, quick to retreat when the world seemed a bit too big and bustling. But thanks to their patience and unwavering love, I’ve been able to spread my wings and blossom into a more confident pup.

Gone are the days of skittering away when folks entered the room. Now, you’ll find me cozied up in the living room, inching closer and closer to my human pals as we share in the simple joys of life. I’m a gentle soul who thrives on affection, whether it’s from my human companions or my furry pals.

And oh, how I adore the great outdoors! There’s nothing quite like the feeling of fresh air on my fur as I trot alongside my favorite humans or engage in spirited play with my doggy buddies. You’ll often catch me eagerly awaiting our walks by the back door, harness at the ready and tail wagging in anticipation. And once we hit the pavement, you can bet I’ll be strutting my stuff, head held high and paws prancing with each step.

As for my canine comrades, let’s just say I’ve had a change of heart. While I used to be a bit wary of my four-legged friends, these days, I’m the first to extend a paw in friendship. In fact, I’m on a mission to meet every dog I encounter, spreading tail wags and canine camaraderie wherever I roam.

BEHAVIOR:

Charley is a medium-energy dog. He is currently learning basic obedience commands and has shown an interest in playing with tennis balls and frisbees. Charley is very sociable and gets along well with other dogs, both in the yard and while on a walk. He prefers to eat his meals in his crate and will only do so if the door is shut and people leave the room. Although Charley is more comfortable with women than men, he is making progress and doing much better overall.

HEALTH:

Charley is in good health overall. Like many retired breeder dogs, Charley is on anti-anxiety medications. He currently takes 100 mg of Trazodone two times daily and 20 mg Fluoxetine one time daily.

ADDITIONAL INSIGHTS:

Looking toward the future, Charley’s potential is limitless. His gentle nature and unwavering spirit make him an ideal fit for any loving home. If you’re ready to open your heart to a shy, yet lovable pup, then Charley is the one for you! While his journey will require patience and a whole lot of love, the transformation he’ll undergo will be nothing short of extraordinary. His adoption fee is $550.

If you are interested in adopting, and want to find out more about our adoption policies, start here: https://www.asgoodasgold.org/our-adoption-and-foster-policies/

To fill out an adoption application, start here: https://www.asgoodasgold.org/adopt-a-golden-retriever/

OR

Contact us: [email protected]

09/09/2024

ADOPTIONS UPDATE!

Congratulations to Luke (4 years), Molly Mae (9 months), and Murphy (1 year) who were recently adopted thanks to the dedication of the wonderful member volunteers with As Good as Gold!

Do you have a Success Story of your As Good as Gold rescue that you’d like to share on social media? If so, please contact us at [email protected]

Call for Dog Videos!!
Make your golden famous on TikTok! Send us a 15 to 30-second video of your AGaG foster dog or adoptive dog. Videos can be sent to [email protected]
Please include your dog’s name, age, and a brief history that can be used as a voiceover when the video is published.

08/09/2024

Disney would love to thank whoever donated the Minnie Mouse puppy jacket to the share table at the Reunion Picnic Today! She is so happy! It’s perfect! And the kids are gonna love seeing her in it!🥰

07/09/2024

MYLA - AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!

Fast Facts
* 4-year-old female
* 55 pounds
* Medium-low energy
* Joyful girl!
* Mentor dog required
* Fenced yard required
* Quick learner
* Unknown with kids and cats

INTRODUCTION As told by Myla

Snoopy, a character (and the main character, if you ask me) in a musical called “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” is mad about mealtime. In fact, he has a whole song about eating dinner; here’s part of it: “It’s supper/Super pepper upper/Supper/Super duper suppertime!” I can totally relate. In fact, mealtimes and seeing you will be the highlight of my days, sparking joy and dance (and maybe a little jumping).

I’m Myla, a 4-year-old retired breeder who is looking for her second (and hopefully, final) act. I think I’m pretty special, and I hope you will as well. Like my fellow retired breeders, I was initially shy and timid. But unlike many of them who often struggle to adapt to life in a home, I learned to embrace this new lifestyle quickly and enthusiastically. Thanks to my wonderful foster parents and foster sibling, I realized lickety-split that there is nowhere I would rather be than part of a family. Mom calls me a “smart, sweet, super joyful love bug.” I’m hoping you have room in your home and your heart for me.

Of course, I cannot deny that my transition from working dog to pet hasn’t been completely seamless. There are a few things I’ve yet to master fully. For example, I understand that I’m supposed to do my business outside, and I do – almost all the time. Learning commands is a work in progress. Walking on the leash? Well, I tend to just lie down and roll when out on a walk, so that, too, will need some practice. I’m not yet great in the car (though I suspect that there will soon come a time when I understand that going for a ride means we are going somewhere fun!). And as I hinted earlier, when I get excited (as in seeing you or seeing my bowl filled with food), I might jump.

But please understand that I have only been learning the ways of the world since mid-July! In fact, in my first week, I went from timid to easily going through doors, asking foster mom and dad for pets, and rewarding them with a joyful wag of my tail. Either they are miracle workers, or I am very smart. (Maybe some of both!)

Mom wants you to know that I am a “beautiful dog with joy in her heart.” Have you noticed how many times the word “joy” has been used to describe me? Wouldn’t you like to add a bit of joy to your life? I’m available!

Interested? Let’s talk!

BEHAVIORAL OBSERVATIONS
* No aggressive behaviors
* Barks to get attention
* Fine with other dogs
* Fearful of the vet

Medical Concerns
* None

For information about our adoption process, please visit: https://www.asgoodasgold.org/adopt-a-golden-retriever/

06/09/2024

Last Chance For Free Shipping On 2025 Calendar Orders

The 2025 Rescue Calendars are selling fast. The last day to take advantage of free shipping will be next Tuesday, September 3. Use coupon code ‘Picnic’ when checking out and your calendar order will be delivered to the AGaG Picnic on Saturday, September 7.

If you have given the gift of a golden calendar in the past, your friends and family will definitely be anticipating another year of goldens. Don’t disappoint them! What a treat our golden calendar will be for those lucky first-time recipients on your gift list. It’s a special gift that lasts all year long. Click here to preview the calendar and place your order. Calendars will also be available for purchase at the AGaG Picnic on September 7.

Thank you for your loyal support of AGaG!

As Good as Gold’s 2025 rescue calendar, featuring many photos of and stories about rescued goldens, is our most popular merchandise item! The calendars are great gifts for family, friends, work colleagues and neighbors so please order one or more today! To avoid a shipping cost, use the coupon cod...

06/09/2024

Oso - AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!

Fast Facts
* 1 year old male, golden doodle
* Medium energy
* House-trained
* Crate-trained
* Good with other dogs and children; unknown regarding cats
* Knows basic obedience commands
* Enjoys outdoor playtime and riding in the car
* 72 pounds

Bio:
INTRODUCTION As told by Oso

Hey there, I’m Oso! I’m a gentle, loving golden doodle with a playful spirit and boundless energy. If you’re looking for a devoted and energetic friend who will keep you smiling, I’m your pup. Let’s make every day an adventure together!

I lived in a busy household where I didn’t get much attention. I spent most of my time alone or in a crate and was starting to feel lonely. It’s nobody’s fault; with three kids and a hectic schedule, my former family barely had time for themselves! I hope to find a home where I can be part of the family and receive the love and attention I deserve.

I adore running around and playing fetch, and I promise to keep you entertained with my goofy antics. I’m a quick learner and always eager to please, making training sessions a breeze. I would love a place to run around daily to help burn my energy and play fetch. Another doggie playmate would be a bonus, but not required.

I’m a very good boy who promises to be a loyal and loving companion, always ready to shower you with hugs and snuggles. While I have a mischievous streak, like pulling on the leash during our walks or getting too excited and tinkling when meeting new friends, I’m working hard to improve.

While I might be tall and thin with giant paws, my heart is as big as a bear’s. It’s fitting since “Oso” means “bear” in Spanish, and I was named that because I looked like a bear cub as a puppy. My heart is set on finding a forever home where I can share my playful energy and big heart with a loving family. Could that be with you?

BEHAVIOR:
* Oso is a medium-energy dog who loves to play. Although energetic, he enjoys relaxing and watching TV with his foster family. Oso is very friendly and gets along well with other dogs and people.

HEALTH:
* Oso is a healthy and well-adjusted dog. He is not taking any medication.

ADDITIONAL INSIGHTS:
* Oso has a great personality and would thrive in an active family. With love, attention and feeling like part of the family, Oso will blossom into a fantastic dog. His adoption fee is $550.

To learn about our adoption process, go here: https://www.asgoodasgold.org/adopt-a-golden-retriever/

OR

Contact us: [email protected]

05/09/2024

Thank you for considering a donation to As Good as Gold!

As Good as Gold is a membership-based, 100% volunteer-run non-profit rescue organization, dedicated to the rescue, care, and adoption of golden retrievers and golden mixes in need.

Your gift will give rescued goldens a second chance at a happy life starting in a loving foster home with appropriate veterinary care.

In addition to being 100% volunteer-run, As Good as Gold relies on the generosity and support of the general public and receives no government or United Way funding.

To learn about AGaG's donation programs, please click here:https://www.asgoodasgold.org/donation-programs/

Donate Today:
https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E356588&id=1

05/09/2024

Thank you ORVIS-Chicago for selecting As Good as Gold as your featured fundraising rescue for the Fall 2024 Great Give Back Days! When customers donate $10 or more to AGaG at the Chicago ORVIS they get 10% off their in-store purchase!

05/09/2024

Mia - AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!

Fast Facts
* 4 1/2-year-old female
* Medium low energy
* Shy but sweet
* Needs mentor dog
* Needs fenced yard
* Almost house-trained
* Nervous around young kids
* Will need patient, consistent training

INTRODUCTION As told by Mia

Life sure can throw you some curve balls; let me tell you!

Four months ago, I was living the only life I had ever known. I worked as a breeder, and I had very few rules to follow or expectations to live up to, except giving birth to puppies. I had no conception of any other way to live.

Then, BAM! My universe turned upside down. I retired from breeding and was relinquished to As Good as Gold. In retrospect, I can see that this was the golden ticket to a future filled with treats, zoomies, and lots and lots of pets, but for some time, I was totally freaked out.

AGaG placed me in a thing called a house with a wonderful foster mom and dad and three other dogs and a cat. In the beginning, I was overwhelmed. I felt safest alone in my crate where I could take all this newness in from a distance. One of the first “new” things I had to deal with was the proper way of doing my business. I had no idea that I was supposed to go outside to relieve myself, so Dad had to carry me out a few times and there were a few “accidents” in the beginning. But my foster siblings showed me the ropes, and I quickly learned what was expected. There may still be a mishap or two, but for the most part, I am house-trained.

Foster mom and dad have done wonders for me, but I haven’t always made it easy. In the beginning, I didn’t understand different kinds of playing, and one day, one of my foster sisters started to roughhouse. Not realizing that it was all in good fun, I got defensive, and we got into it a little bit. Dad was able to get the other dog away, but we were both left shaken. Now that I get it, we are good friends and like to play. We also struggled initially because I was so withdrawn and unsocialized. This made my progress toward acclimating into the family s-l-o-w – as in a snail’s pace. At one point, I was a bit disruptive, and Mom didn’t think she was doing enough to help me learn all I needed to, so she suggested that I might be better off in another foster home. Fortunately, she gave me a few days, and things started to turn around. I am sooo grateful that Mom and Dad gave me another chance!

I tell you all these things so that you understand how far I have come in just a few short months – and that with your love, support and help I will come even further. After living with and learning from my foster family, I have pretty good manners. I don’t jump or counter surf or go on furniture. I will take treats gently from your hand, and I will be super excited to see you in the morning or after you return home. Mom says I am really smart and I am learning commands. I know “leave it” (but truth be told, you might have to ask me twice if I really like what’s in my mouth).

Speaking of things in my mouth . . . I am what Mom calls an aggressive chewer. Who knew a TV remote was so tasty? I’ve also chowed down on some shoes, a throw pillow, a plastic dog bowl, and a drainage pipe among other things. Mom got me special toys for extreme chewers that help soothe me, so things are improving.

Foster Mom and Dad are proud of the progress I have made toward being a loving and loved member of a family. They say I am gaining in confidence and becoming more comfortable in this new world. Just recently, I followed Mom to bed and chose to sleep on the floor next to her. It meant a lot to her that I expressed my affection and trust that way.

Yes, four months ago, my world was rocked! But I know that if we met and got to know one another, we could rock each other’s worlds for years to come. Life does indeed throw curve balls, but with the right coaching, sometimes you can hit a homerun.

Interested in becoming my coach? Let’s talk.

BEHAVIOR
* Shy and timid
* Anxious, but improving
* Enjoys running in the backyard
* Has not yet adjusted to riding in the car
* Freezes when harness or leash is put on, making walking difficult at this time; this training is a work in progress
* OK with cats

HEALTH
* Takes medication for situational anxiety

To learn about our adoption process, go here: https://www.asgoodasgold.org/adopt-a-golden-retriever/

OR

Contact us: [email protected]

04/09/2024

ORANGE - AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!

Fast Facts
* 3 1/2-year-old male
* Medium-high energy
* Golden/Airedale/Poodle mix
* Housetrained
* Loves to cuddle
* Mentor dog NOT required
* Fenced yard NOT required
* Kids and cats: unknown

INTRO As told by Orange

Orange you glad you stopped by my posting? I am, because I hope you want to “play ball” — so to speak!

Are you wondering about the name Orange? Maybe because I’m known to be “extremely sweet,” as foster mom says. Being loving and a cuddler also add to my sweetness.

Certainly, I do like to play ball! I fetch and catch a tennis ball — and I’m even more wild about walks! I’m a good walking companion and only pull when I simply must track down a scent. When possible, I like to walk three times daily. Foster mom knows this because when she sees me whining and barking by the front door, she realizes I’m trying hard for the chance to check out the neighborhood — again!

I play with toys, and I try to play with my furry foster sister. She’s not keen on it, maybe because she’s a sedate senior and I’m in my youth! When I urge her to play the response is, “Not now, young man.” I comply with her wishes. I’d welcome play with other dogs though!

There are no serious areas of concern with me. I jump and bark a bit. My barking lets you know I have to go outside; it’s a communication tool, you see! No guarding issues to deal with, and I’m not timid. I don’t dig and am not a counter surfer. All right, when I see items that I can possibly shake, like towels and socks, I’ll take the opportunity. (Foster mom’s working with me on that!) And sometimes when I’m wound up from playing, I can get mouthy — just play mouthy — and I might “take a minute” to settle down. There are definitely times when I can be quite calm. I’m very gentle when taking treats. I know the commands sit, come and stay.

My original family no longer had time for me, so they did the hard thing and relinquished me to the good folks at As Good as Gold. I’m not a big dog (I weigh 48 pounds), but I am a loving dog with a “great personality,” as foster mom says. I’d be a good match for adopters looking for an enthusiastic, happy and unique “goldador!” In my enthusiasm, I Googled that term! It means a lab and golden mix. OK, not exactly orange, but close! Do you think you could adore the golden in me?

ADDITIONAL INSIGHTS
* Readily gets into car and rides well
* Fine using stairs
* Adoption fee is $550

HEALTH
* No health issues or medications other than heartworm and flea/tick preventives.

If you are interested in adopting, and want to find out more about our adoption policies, start here: https://www.asgoodasgold.org/our-adoption-and-foster-policies/

To fill out an adoption application, start here: https://www.asgoodasgold.org/adopt-a-golden-retriever/

OR

Contact us: [email protected]

03/09/2024

Fostering - We Need Your Help!

As Good as Gold is a membership-based, 100% volunteer-run non-profit rescue organization, dedicated to the rescue, care, and adoption of golden retrievers and golden mixes in need.

A key component of AGaG is our foster homes. Without them, we would not be able to operate the way we do and have dogs placed with loving families temporarily until a permanent home can be found.

The need is so very critical. We are at the point where we may not be able to accept dogs in need because we don’t have the foster homes to accommodate them.

PLEASE consider fostering so we can help more dogs!! They need you!!

For more information, please go to:
https://www.asgoodasgold.org/fostering/

OR

Contact us: [email protected]

03/09/2024

ADOPTIONS UPDATE!

Congratulations to Bo (5 years), Fiona (3 years), and Kirby (4 months) who were recently adopted thanks to the dedication of the wonderful member volunteers with As Good as Gold!

Do you have a Success Story of your As Good as Gold rescue that you’d like to share on social media? If so, please contact us at [email protected]

Call for Dog Videos!!
Make your golden famous on TikTok! Send us a 15 to 30-second video of your AGaG foster dog or adoptive dog. Videos can be sent to [email protected]
Please include your dog’s name, age, and a brief history that can be used as a voiceover when the video is published.

02/09/2024

Shop As Good as Gold!

Check out these NEW items on As Good as Gold's virtual shop!

Leather Patch Mesh Back Hat in 3 Colors!

* Heather blue/gray brim, amber-colored visor, and beige mesh back.
* Carolina blue brim and visor with beige mesh back.
* Black brim and visor with beige mesh back.

Adjustable mesh back trucker style hat with leather As Good as Gold logo patch.

Don't Delay! Order Today!
https://www.asgoodasgold.org/shop/

You can also help support As Good as Gold through our partnerships with these companies below:

Shop our Zazzle Store for thousands of additional designs!
https://www.zazzle.com/store/as_good_as_gold

Find more golden retriever merchandise with our partner, Thread Zeppelin.
https://threadszeppelin.com/collections/golden-retrievers

02/09/2024

HAPPY LABOR DAY!

Please share a photo of your golden retriever enjoying the day!

01/09/2024

Mabel’s last day with us before she gets adopted. She’s the best AGaG ambassador!
Channel 7 TV
ORVIS Giveback Days -6 visits
Golden Greets-6
Yappy Hour Hoffman Estates
La Grange Pet Parade
Multiple art fairs, farmers markets and dog friendly patios…
Today she went all out to kick off the September ORVIS Great Give Back Days making sure she got pets from everyone who walked through the door and then chasing them down for more❤️.
We took her to Park & Fields were she enjoyed a pup burger and frozen yogurt cup she was in heaven… 🐾❤️🐾

30/08/2024

Come see Mabel at ORVIS in Chicago tomorrow morning to kick off ORVIS’ September Great Giveback Days which features AGaG! Donate $10 and get 10% off your purchase! They raised $4,368 for us in May, please get the word out so we can help them raise even more in September!

30/08/2024

LOVE & RESCUE - September 21st

Looking for a fun day trip to celebrate the last day of Summer? Come celebrate with us in Woodstock, Illinois on Saturday, September 21st! Food! Art! Live Music! Check out this itinerary:

Woodstock Farmers Market 8am-1pm
Woodstock Art Fair on the Square 10-5 pm
As Good as Gold Love & Rescue Fundraising Event 12-4pm

29/08/2024

Happy Reading!

28/08/2024

CHARLEY - AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!

Fast Facts
* 1.5-year-old male
* Medium energy
* Housetrained (mostly)
* Shy but making progress
* Good with other dogs; unknown regarding cats
* Good with most adults; building confidence around men
* Mentor dog and fenced-in yard required
* Enjoys walks and outdoor playtime

INTRODUCTION As told by Charley

Hey there, I’m Charley, and I come with a story of resilience and hope. At just 1.5 years old and tipping the scales at 50 pounds, I may seem a bit shy and timid, but deep down, I’m a pup with a heart of gold searching for my forever home.

Like many retired breeder pups, my journey hasn’t been without its hurdles. When I first landed in the care of my foster family, I was a shrinking violet, quick to retreat when the world seemed a bit too big and bustling. But thanks to their patience and unwavering love, I’ve been able to spread my wings and blossom into a more confident pup.

Gone are the days of skittering away when folks entered the room. Now, you’ll find me cozied up in the living room, inching closer and closer to my human pals as we share in the simple joys of life. I’m a gentle soul who thrives on affection, whether it’s from my human companions or my furry pals.

And oh, how I adore the great outdoors! There’s nothing quite like the feeling of fresh air on my fur as I trot alongside my favorite humans or engage in spirited play with my doggy buddies. You’ll often catch me eagerly awaiting our walks by the back door, harness at the ready and tail wagging in anticipation. And once we hit the pavement, you can bet I’ll be strutting my stuff, head held high and paws prancing with each step.

As for my canine comrades, let’s just say I’ve had a change of heart. While I used to be a bit wary of my four-legged friends, these days, I’m the first to extend a paw in friendship. In fact, I’m on a mission to meet every dog I encounter, spreading tail wags and canine camaraderie wherever I roam.

BEHAVIOR:

Charley is a medium-energy dog. He is currently learning basic obedience commands and has shown an interest in playing with tennis balls and frisbees. Charley is very sociable and gets along well with other dogs, both in the yard and while on a walk. He prefers to eat his meals in his crate and will only do so if the door is shut and people leave the room. Although Charley is more comfortable with women than men, he is making progress and doing much better overall.

HEALTH:

Charley is in good health overall. Like many retired breeder dogs, Charley is on anti-anxiety medications. He currently takes 100 mg of Trazodone two times daily and 20 mg Fluoxetine one time daily.

ADDITIONAL INSIGHTS:

Looking toward the future, Charley’s potential is limitless. His gentle nature and unwavering spirit make him an ideal fit for any loving home. If you’re ready to open your heart to a shy, yet lovable pup, then Charley is the one for you! While his journey will require patience and a whole lot of love, the transformation he’ll undergo will be nothing short of extraordinary. His adoption fee is $550.

If you are interested in adopting, and want to find out more about our adoption policies, start here: https://www.asgoodasgold.org/our-adoption-and-foster-policies/

To fill out an adoption application, start here: https://www.asgoodasgold.org/adopt-a-golden-retriever/

OR

Contact us: [email protected]

28/08/2024

Mia - AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!

Fast Facts
* 4 1/2-year-old female
* Medium low energy
* Shy but sweet
* Needs mentor dog
* Needs fenced yard
* Almost house-trained
* Nervous around young kids
* Will need patient, consistent training

INTRODUCTION As told by Mia

Life sure can throw you some curve balls; let me tell you!

Four months ago, I was living the only life I had ever known. I worked as a breeder, and I had very few rules to follow or expectations to live up to, except giving birth to puppies. I had no conception of any other way to live.

Then, BAM! My universe turned upside down. I retired from breeding and was relinquished to As Good as Gold. In retrospect, I can see that this was the golden ticket to a future filled with treats, zoomies, and lots and lots of pets, but for some time, I was totally freaked out.

AGaG placed me in a thing called a house with a wonderful foster mom and dad and three other dogs and a cat. In the beginning, I was overwhelmed. I felt safest alone in my crate where I could take all this newness in from a distance. One of the first “new” things I had to deal with was the proper way of doing my business. I had no idea that I was supposed to go outside to relieve myself, so Dad had to carry me out a few times and there were a few “accidents” in the beginning. But my foster siblings showed me the ropes, and I quickly learned what was expected. There may still be a mishap or two, but for the most part, I am house-trained.

Foster mom and dad have done wonders for me, but I haven’t always made it easy. In the beginning, I didn’t understand different kinds of playing, and one day, one of my foster sisters started to roughhouse. Not realizing that it was all in good fun, I got defensive, and we got into it a little bit. Dad was able to get the other dog away, but we were both left shaken. Now that I get it, we are good friends and like to play. We also struggled initially because I was so withdrawn and unsocialized. This made my progress toward acclimating into the family s-l-o-w – as in a snail’s pace. At one point, I was a bit disruptive, and Mom didn’t think she was doing enough to help me learn all I needed to, so she suggested that I might be better off in another foster home. Fortunately, she gave me a few days, and things started to turn around. I am sooo grateful that Mom and Dad gave me another chance!

I tell you all these things so that you understand how far I have come in just a few short months – and that with your love, support and help I will come even further. After living with and learning from my foster family, I have pretty good manners. I don’t jump or counter surf or go on furniture. I will take treats gently from your hand, and I will be super excited to see you in the morning or after you return home. Mom says I am really smart and I am learning commands. I know “leave it” (but truth be told, you might have to ask me twice if I really like what’s in my mouth).

Speaking of things in my mouth . . . I am what Mom calls an aggressive chewer. Who knew a TV remote was so tasty? I’ve also chowed down on some shoes, a throw pillow, a plastic dog bowl, and a drainage pipe among other things. Mom got me special toys for extreme chewers that help soothe me, so things are improving.

Foster Mom and Dad are proud of the progress I have made toward being a loving and loved member of a family. They say I am gaining in confidence and becoming more comfortable in this new world. Just recently, I followed Mom to bed and chose to sleep on the floor next to her. It meant a lot to her that I expressed my affection and trust that way.

Yes, four months ago, my world was rocked! But I know that if we met and got to know one another, we could rock each other’s worlds for years to come. Life does indeed throw curve balls, but with the right coaching, sometimes you can hit a homerun.

Interested in becoming my coach? Let’s talk.

BEHAVIOR
* Shy and timid
* Anxious, but improving
* Enjoys running in the backyard
* Has not yet adjusted to riding in the car
* Freezes when harness or leash is put on, making walking difficult at this time; this training is a work in progress
* OK with cats

HEALTH
* Takes medication for situational anxiety

To learn about our adoption process, go here: https://www.asgoodasgold.org/adopt-a-golden-retriever/

OR

Contact us: [email protected]