My story

　　In Petersburg, WVPlease say hi to Dexter. We estimate him to be about 4 years old. He would do best as an only dog or with a fun, friendly, easy going female.

　　Dexter would do best in a quieter home with no kids and no frequent visitors.

　　He is due for his neuter surgery soon and has already had surgery to remove several bladder stones which he was suffering with when he was brought into foster care so he will require a special diet to prevent further stones.

　　He still needs to gain weight, but will likely be around 30 lbs.

　　. Cuddling with a stuffed sheep, Dexter shows us that he can actually settle down - once in a while - between bursts of supercharged Aussie activity.

　　He definitely prefers women, needs a fenced yard, and plenty of energy burning exercise/training daily. A country or suburban home would be great as long as his frequent barking won't disturb neighbors.

　　He needs someone who is very experienced with herding breed dogs.

　　He does have a good recall and is trustworthy off leash in a fenced area, as long as there aren't other people around. Some of his behaviors can possibly be modified over time to allow more interaction with strangers, but it will take a dedicated, dog savvy owner to work with him on his fear of men and strangers.

　　I have not had him around livestock, but I think he might be willing to learn herding if he had the right trainer.

　　He is what those in the herding world would call a ' header', running to the front of the flock to stop or turn them.

　　Agility or even flyball might work for him, if he can be focused on the task and not overwhelmed by any bystanders.

　　This little firecracker needs to be with someone who wants a dog to partner with them at work, play, home and everywhere in between.

　　He wants someone to include him and form a team with a bond of steel.

　　He has become obsessed with toys now that he has discovered them.

　　He likes to fetch, and has even started dropping the toy upon return, will sit nicely for treats, and is working on down, stay, shake hands, and a few other commands.

　　He needs to learn to not pull on his leash, but that will take time and practice.

　　He's not a big fan of car rides as he hates the crate or seatbelt belt/harness and will bark almost nonstop.

　　Whatever happened to him prior to being rescued, caused him to feel anxious, insecure and fearful. His anxiety is expressed through his hyper energy, barking and nervous pacing. But after a good hike or play or training session, it's almost like watching a transformation as he begins to relax - The jittery, nervous antics melt into a sense of relief and the little cinnamon speckled fellow just seems to heave a sigh of contentment.

　　And then he smiles that infectious little grin of his.

　　Surely there is someone out there who can give this loyal and loving little guy the home he so desperately wants and deserves.

　　One final note:

　　Dexter gets his feelings hurt (he's a sensitive little guy) and he pouts when he is scolded, and will go to his chair and curl up, refusing to look at you till you make up with him! It's comical in a way, but also shows how deeply emotional making his unknown past even more mysterious.

　　When he bonds to his person, it's a lifelong deal. Let's help him find that special person who will be there for him the same way he will be for them.

　　If you think you are that person, please fill out our application:

　　/adoption-application

　　All adoption fees are used for future rescue efforts.

　　If you have any questions or would like to adopt Dexter, please reach out to the adoption group directly. PetSmart Charities does not facilitate the adoption process. Thank you.