Dog Name: McLaren
Breed: Retriever Mix
Sex: Male
Age: 2 years
Weight: 41 lbs
Medical Needs: Just completed heartworm treatment and will need follow up appointment in sixth months with Avenue Veterinarian Clinic in Milford, DE. This appointment will be covered by Grass Roots so long as adopters continue his monthly preventatives.
McLaren also has hip dysplasia and some arthritis, which is managed by medication; he will need to continue this medication for life. Additionally, McLaren takes a joint supplement daily.
Housebroken: Yes, occasionally will have an accident as he is extremely hesitant to go outside in bad weather, which is probably due to his injuries.
Crate trained: Yes, McLaren’s crate is his safe place, his crate is in his foster’s living room, and he loves watching everyone. He sleeps in his crate and naps throughout the day. He rarely whines or barks, and when he does, a kitten is usually involved! He will also remind everyone when it's dinner time, just in case we should forget!
Good in the car: McLaren was either hit by a car, or thrown from a car, but is now doing very well with riding. He may need help getting in due to his hip dysplasia, and arthritis, but once in, he will lay right down and take a little nap. He has barked at strangers at the gas station, but hey, at least no one will dare try to make off with your car with him there to defend it!
Good on a leash: Yes, however, traffic makes him extremely anxious, so walking around in the yard or in a quiet area is preferred. He is slowly getting more comfortable walking along our back road in the grass, but at times still gets anxious.
Energy level: McLaren has moments of zoomies, but due to his injuries, we avoid any strenuous activities. He doesn’t enjoy the rain and can be extremely hesitant to go outside if the weather is bad.
Need a fenced in yard: Not necessary, but when the sun is shining, McLaren does enjoy going out in our fenced in yard to get lots of sniffing in.
Dog Friendly: Yes, McLaren currently lives with 9 other dogs in his foster home ranging in age and breed/size. He does best with our older dogs who are less active.
If yes, does your foster need another dog in its adoptive home? It is not necessary for him to have another dog in his new home.
Cat Friendly? Yes, however, our kitten loves climbing all over his crate late at night so we cover his crate so he can get some rest.
Kid Friendly: McLaren has not been exposed to any children, however, older teens who understand McLaren’s needs and anxiety would be best.
If yes, what's the youngest child you'd recommend they be placed with? 12 and up for his comfort.
Special traits that make your foster special or that we need to know about them?
McLaren has stranger danger and needs slow, gentle introductions to new people - typically with ham or some other high-reward treat involved. Once he warms up, he is very sweet, gentle, and kind. His medical issues aside, he's a very happy boy who is looking for a family that likes tv/movie time over strenuous activities. He likes nothing better than just laying down with his foster family and getting scratches and love.
Don't let those sad eyes deter you - McLaren is a handsome, young dog who truly loves his people. You'll get to see the side of him others might not, and it may take a bit of work and patience to get there, it'll all be worth it in the end. Coming to Delaware from Waco, Texas was his second chance, and he's been thrilled to make the most of it so far. With his gorgeous reddish fur and those sweet golden eyes, he'll win hearts quickly. Hopefully some of those hearts belong to the people who will give this stellar guy the life he never knew was possible.
Fosters Location: Harrington, DE
Application can be found here: https://www.grrde.org/adoption-application (if you already have an approved application on file email GrassRootsDE@gmail.com and ask the app team to pull your app)
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