Santana-PENDING

Santana was scheduled to be euthanized at a vet hospital in New England. Once at the vet hospital the Doctor could not see putting to sleep a wonderful Lab who needed someone to show him some basic manners. She convinced the owners to place him in the care of the hospital who then contacted AHR. Santana is in foster care and learning the manners he should have been taught years ago, he has responded beautifully and ready to go to a new home that will continue his training.

FROM HIS FOSTER FAMILY 6/07: Santana is an 8 year old black lab (probably full), but don't let that deter you! He acts more like a 5 yr old lab. He is in great shape, active and loves his people to play with him! He has been awesome since he came to my home. He responds to commands and does well off leash. He enjoys being with the people, chewing on his favorite bone, playing with toys, wagging his tail..which wags his whole behind. He does hesitate when going down basement stairs and the texture of certain floors but is making progress. He seems to have been kept on one floor in the house, and is hesitant on new surfaces (like at Pet Quarters) he does fine when encouraged though. He wants to play with other dogs, but gets nervous when he is approached… poor guy even was running away from my cats in the beginning. But now is becoming well socialized with them. Santana does recognize visitors and verbalizes it. However after some reassurance he settles down. For being 7 years old almost 8, he still has lots of playful energy ! As far as his reaction to children I have had him around my 6 year old cousin and he did really well even when they were roughhousing. All Santana needs is a family who will love him and give him the time and attention he so badly needs and possibly some formal training. His only real issues seem to be that when he can be stubborn when he really wants to do something, like sit on the couch, and you shoo him away. He is a great dog 95% of the time, and is learning that people rule the house, not the dog, very quickly. He is very food motivated and responds very well, he only needed someone to teach him!

previous update: he is a super dog...well trained....he knows sit, stay, down, bark, paw, etc.... I can put my hand in his water and food while he is eating and drinking, no problems. i have brushed and touched him all over. he is very gentle and calm in the house...loves to play outside and catch the ball. not sure if he will fetch as i have not let him off the leash....he does come when i call him though. we are also working on putting a cookie on his noise and catching it..he does awesome at it. loves everyone in the family vocal and a bit protective to strangers at the door