It’s a fairly common scenario. A dog is reactive on leash, lunging, pulling and barking aggressively when they spot another canine. They don’t like other dogs. Period. No judgement please: sometimes the owner just hasn’t been able to resolve the issue, or their lifestyle or neighbourhood makes it extremely difficult to live with a dog that behaves in this way. In fact, even with patience and training, there are times when the issue can’t be totally fixed. The intensity level of the reaction may be lessened, and the behaviour managed.

Many times we hear, “If my dog could only live in the country, where he won’t meet so many dogs on walks, and can be an only pet, he would be fine.” And we don’t disagree. But we also call no-pet homes in a rural setting “unicorn fosters”, because they are very hard to find.

Wedge came to BTRC with leash and dog reactivity. His family had spent a considerable amount of time and effort working on his issues. But there were many dogs in the extended family; Wedge wasn’t happy when they visited and stressed when he had to be kenneled with other dogs around.

And happily for Wedge, we found a unicorn! Although fostering was a new adventure for them, these long-time supporters wanted to help. Work on Wedge’s reactivity is much easier now that situations can be set-up and better controlled.

The truth is, Wedge fit into his foster home seamlessly. He quickly stole his foster family’s hearts, which have been a long-time healing from the loss of their previous Boston Terrier. So we have happy humans. A happy Wedge. And now a happy BTRC – as we announce that Wedge will be officially adopted as a permanent member of his no-pet, country, forever home!

Congratulations!

Welcome Wedge!

Wedge displays two of the most common problem behaviours in dogs. He is not good with other dogs and is reactive on-leash.

He is now ‘decompressing’ in a no-pet foster home, where he’ll be given the time and space he needs to get used to his new environment, and we can start to understand his personality and begin to address his issues.

One thing we do already know is that this three-year-old Boston is adorable and we’re looking forward to working with him and helping him become the best boy he can be!

NOTE: Wedge is being fostered in Renfrew County, Ontario and is not yet ready to be considered for adoption. BTRC DOES NOT MAINTAIN A WAITING LIST, SO NO APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED AT THIS TIME.