Lovely Border Collie/Lab Mix for Adoption

Santa Barbara CA

Description

Meet "Oreo," a sweetheart of a dog recently transferred from Animal Services to Aussie Rescue So Cal, and living in foster care. Oreo is about 7 years old, or so the vet guesses. It's hard to tell because his teeth are really worn from what must have been years of chewing on flea allergies -- he's also got a lot of hair loss from those years of neglect, although it's growing back quickly. But his eyes indicate that he's not very senior at all, and his energy level backs that up. This is a dog that will go on an 1 1/2 hour hike and then come back and want to play ball in the yard. So he's got lots of years of life left in him! (He's about 50 lbs, and should be 55 lb, to give you a sense of his size.) Oreo came in as a stray so we don't know his history, but best guess is that he was an outdoor dog, from his initial hesitation about coming in the house. (He's also finalizing his housebreaking.) His health is good other than the hair loss (which is growing back) and very very worn teeth from chewing on his itchy spots (he has a dental scheduled for April 13). Temperament wise, you could not ask for a nicer dog! He is very dog-social -- he keeps inviting my other dogs to play, and is happy to meet new dogs on walks. He really likes people too, greeting visitors with a big smile and tail wag. He's scared of cats and gives them a healthy buffer. Oreo is pretty high energy despite being middle aged. He loves walks, and playing with toys (he seems to think pillows are plush toys, but we are working on that!) He was nervous about car rides, but now jumps in willingly. He's even crate trained. He will need some additional obedience training if you want to take him off leash (he does come when called, but should get more practice before being let loose). But he is really smart and eager to please, and should be a quick study! Oreo was neutered and vaccinated while with Animal Services, and also had exams and blood work. And he will get a dental to deal with any issues with his teeth. So his adopter will be getting about $2000 worth of veterinary care already taken care of as part of his adoption. If you are interested in this lovely boy, start by completing the Aussie Rescue adoption application here: https://www.aussierescuesocal.com/applications/adoption_v2/ Put his name at the top and we'll know which dog you want!