[ Post a Response | Rhodesian Ridgebacks And Friends ]
Posted by Dawn
on 10/3/2008, 10:02 pm
66.60.214.88
Last weekend I got a call from a friend of mine needing a home for a ridgie. The guy that had him was having problems finding a home for him and was going to take him out and shoot him.
I picked up Harley, basically not knowing anything about him. To my surprise and horror, he is not neutered (he's 20 months old). The horror on me was because I was planning on bringing him to my house, BUT my girls are in season...not a good thing. A friend of mine volunteered to keep him at her house, I called RR Rescue and they have gotten back to me, but foster homes are in real short supply right now, even in rural Minnesota. I made an appointment for Harley to be neutered and took some days off of work to be with him while he recuperates, as well as I would rather be with him while he heals because I know the problems I had with T (infection and LOTS of swelling and bleeding).
Is it possible and do-able to keep my in-season girls in the house along with a freshly neutered male and take turns crating so they aren't stuck in their crates constantly? My friend isn't working out so well as a foster...and nothing against her because she has only the best intentions, just not Rhodesian-owner material (she is not the pack leader in her house). If anyone has any advice on how I can do this for the eight weeks until Harley is safe, or until he goes to a forever home, would be appreciated.
On a good note...Harley is a PEACH. He has no horrible bad habits, just typical Ridgeback behavior. He's 90 lbs but could use a few pounds, a big lovernose. Anyone that would pass by adopting him is making a huge mistake. He is definitely a "my heart" boy. He's WONDERFUL with kids of all ages, from babies to teens...just a big, gentle boy. If I could, I would definitely keep him, but I think my taking on another dog would be better spent fostering. Harley has had quite a heavy-handed upbringing, but has a heart of gold and is as dignified as a Ridgie should be. I can't say enough good things about him. I brought him to obedience classes, and for having absolutely no leash manners whatsoever, by the end of the first night, he was heeling and sitting like a pro. And the most weird thing? He has taken to the Halti like it's his best friend...he actually likes it...I can't say enough good things about this boy.
Dawn
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