Genesis

The call for help came from a shelter nearly 150 miles from Austin: “We have a male Golden that is HW+. We will not be able to place him and are wondering if you guys can take him. He is 3 years old, intact. He was released to us by someone who only had him for 2 weeks. They said he was uncontrollable and trying to ‘get’ the smaller dog they had. We have not noticed that here.”

As we later learned, the surrendering owner had only ever had tiny older dogs, and completely misunderstood a young Golden’s vigorous style of play… and couldn’t tell the difference between a play growl and a real one. At the shelter, Genesis spent playtime in a communal pen with a mob of other male dogs, both intact and neutered, and never a harsh word. Got on just fine with everyone. In short: no worries about aggression. And: “He even remained sitting when I did—I can't believe his owners turned him in complaining he was disobedient!” snorted our transport volunteer.  “He's a love, didn't even pull on the lead.”

Those good impressions have all been borne out by his behavior in foster care:

He is doing fantastic with me and my dog Valentine.  He is such a sweet laidback gentleman. Before his heartworm treatment started, he went with us to the dog park and got along with absolutely everyone. If a dog acted confrontational, he’d just look at them like "what is it dude?" and just stop and stand still. They’d give up!  Visitors to my home just fall in love with him! He is grateful for any and all attention and wants nothing other than to be right by your side.  He loves toys and chews.  He is gaining confidence and is just a joy to have around. He is going to make a great family dog, and  I think he would even do well with small children due to his gentle nature. Oh, and he is totally housebroken—not one accident.

The one concern I have is his weight – at just 47 pounds he is really skinny, so we are working on feeding him up. (After eating, he always comes to thank you for the meal, and while you are petting him, usually burps loudly in your face.  I find it quite amusing!) His coat is somewhat dry and lifeless, but good nutrition and getting rid of the heartworms will take care of that problem.

Genesis will be ready for his new home in the new year – right around the second week of February. If you would like to welcome this sweet and loving boy into your home, please let us know.

View Pictures Here