Tigger - female/spayed - young adult - hound mix (possibly hound/whippet - medium size - 32 pounds - tricolor short coat with black saddle and striping on legs and face
Writing narrative descriptions for dogs is always an exercise in appreciation - for our wonderful foster care providers, and for the dogs who place their faith in them. Tigger is a shining example.
Tigger had a rough start in life from what we know. Left in a drop-box at an animal shelter in rural Virginia, underweight, and full of parasites, Tigger was fearful, and likely had never been inside a house before. There is a sad saying that “a door is what a dog is perpetually on the wrong side of.” This saying could have been a metaphor for Tigger’s life.
As fearful and unsure of the world as she was, Tigger clearly wanted to trust people. Her foster mom undertook a planned program of socialization and happy exposure to people, places and things - all geared to build Tigger’s confidence and give her tools to cope.
Over many months, Tigger steadily blossomed. She learned to expect good from a world that had formerly seemed frightening, and realized that people not only loved her, but consistently produced her favorite treats from pockets and purses - for all manner of reasons. Tigger began to believe that the main reason might be because she mattered.
Now, this beautiful, winsome-faced little dog welcomes touch and new friends. She has become a “joiner” in her multi-dog foster home, racing along with them excitedly to the front door or streaming through the yard with her ears flying. She has mastered many basic behaviors, including “sit”, “lie down”, “off”, “leave it”, “come”, and - her personal favorite - “touch.”
Tigger’s eyes shine with joy, and her expression is soft and open. She is a gentle, responsive dog who returns affection easily and fulsomely. She loves to cuddle, and enjoys being petted and stroked. She is good about putting on her walking harness, and gets very excited by the prospect of a walk.
Tigger is also crate trained, and rides well in a car. She is a true problem solver, and has learned how to open doors that have lever-style handles. She is also a skilled counter surfer, and her slight size, deftness and stealth in this activity have earned Tigger the nickname “The Artful Dodger.”
Tigger’s proud foster mom says that Tigger is “the perfect size - small enough to pick her up when you need to, but not so small that you will trip over her.” Physically, Tigger is quite beautiful. Her hind legs have an unusual pattern of striping in rich oranges and treys, much like the markings on a tiger. Her build is elegant and refined.
We are recommending Tigger for a home that is fairly calm and quiet, and as an only dog. Her foster mom has observed Tigger’s behavior in two contexts: one as part of her own multi-dog and cat household, and the other as an only dog in a trusted friend’s home. Despite Tigger’s ability to get along with other dogs and cats, she also seems to become over-stimulated by them, and over-excited. In a calm household in which she is the only dog, Tigger is relaxed and more confident. She is at her personal “best."
Tigger is a courageous, charming, intelligent dog. Her transformation has been inspiring. She will bring love, laughter, and a deep bond of friendship and faith to her lucky adopter(s).
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