Stevie
UPDATE:
We’ve had more time to get to know Stevie, and we’ve learned some important things about what will help him thrive in his forever home.
Stevie is a very smart and fast learner. He now knows sit and down using hand signals and is continuing to learn more every day. His previous foster was working with him on building confidence, communication, and helping him navigate the world with his limited vision and hearing.
We’ve also learned that Stevie can be a little protective of his special things around other dogs, particularly when it comes to high-value items. While he does enjoy playing with other dogs, sharing certain things and space can be challenging for him. Because of this, we feel Stevie would be happiest as the only dog in the home, where he can relax and enjoy his people and his belongings without having to share.
Because Stevie is blind in one eye, has very limited vision in the other, and is mostly deaf, he can also become overwhelmed by his surroundings. His ideal home will be patient and understanding, provide structure and consistency, and be willing to continue working with him using visual cues and positive training.
Once Stevie feels comfortable and trusts his person, he is an affectionate, playful and loving boy who enjoys being close to his human. He has made great progress, and we’re continuing to learn more about him as he gains confidence.
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Is anyone ready to fall in love? Now, here’s your chance! Meet Stevie.
Here is one charming boy who is sure to sweep you off of your feet.
And, we mean that wholeheartedly, as this sweet boy wants to walk so close to you, you have to be careful not to trip over him!
Stevie is believed to be approximately four years old, sixty pounds, and while not a purebred golden retriever, he sure has the personality of one. He is as gentle and affectionate as can be!
Stevie loves other dogs and is very playful. He even tried using his charisma to convince his foster’s older dog to play with him, but she politely turned down his advances. He would do great with another dog who wouldn’t mind a game or two of fetch!
We don’t know much about Stevie’s history as he was found as a stray, wandering around the desert. He was dehydrated and starving. He was a bit scratched up as well.
It’s important to mention, when we had him examined at our vet, he seemed to be more comfortable in the company of females. This isn’t to say he won’t do well with men, but it’s too soon to tell. He might have just been startled when our vet walked in, or confused by all of the scents at the vet’s office. Or, he might just be a little flirt…but we will know more once we get to know him better.
Stevie appears to have the double Merle gene, which results in him being blind in one eye and deaf. Blind and deaf dogs DO thrive. Sometimes they thrive so well that you forget they have any limitations at all.
As for commands, Stevie doesn’t yet know the basics or any hand signals, but don’t hold that against him. A little patience, consistency, and positive training can go a long way, and we are confident that he will become quite the dignified fellow in no time.
While Stevie isn’t afraid to ride in a car, he is quite the magician and, even with restraints, can wiggle his way into the front seat. He’s quite the Velcro dog and just wants to be close to his human! With a little training and consistency, we’re sure he can learn that being a backseat passenger can be just as enjoyable.
Stevie probably has some interesting stories to tell about his walkabout in the desert, but we want to help him leave any bad memories behind and begin a fun, happy, new fur-ever life in the comfort of his very own home.
Are you ready to be swept away?
