Rex is exhibiting signs of arousal and anxiety in the shelter environment and is
having a hard time adapting. Rex arrived to the shelter with several wounds on his
legs. We are unsure of the origins of these wounds but they do appear to be
consistent with injuries sustained in fights with other dogs. Rex has come to
playgroup but he shows dog selective behaviors. He shows challenging and assertive
behaviors, especially with other male dogs. He also can be a bully to vulnerable
dogs. Rex will require proper introductions to any new animals. With time and slow,
proper introductions and time to decompress from the shelter, Rex may be
successful in a home with other dogs. He walks well on leash and enjoys attention.
This dog is working with our training team daily on leash skills, basic obedience, and
good manners. He loves treats, making training easier and fun! He also loves fetch
and playing with balls. This dog is a “potty dog” at the shelter which means they wait
to go outside to do their business and is likely housebroken. This animal would
benefit from an environment with less stimulation and some training to help them
cope with over arousing stimuli and anxiety.
Staff has continued to bring Rex to playgroup to try and progress his assertive
behaviors with other dogs but he is not showing progress. He may need to be the
only dog in the home; we would ideally see him go to a home with no other dogs or
a home willing and able to keep dogs separate and slowly introduce. Due to these
challenging behaviors observed and the limited resources and capacity of the
shelter, this animal needs placement by 9/16 at 3 PM.