As you read their stories - please consider making a "Heart Connection"  with one or more. 
They each have their own unique gifts of joy and love of life and need your support.

Pets with Disabilities is located in Southern Maryland. 
WE WILL ONLY ADOPT DOGS INTO OUR REGION -which includes MD, VA, WV, DE, NJ, PA & NY (ie within a 6 hr drive of the rescue)

Please email us for additional information concerning a specific dog - the adoption process will begin with a completed application.

Lacey, is a 3-year-old, 40 lb, blind blue merle Australian Shepherd/Beagle mix. Lacey lost her family when they were forced to move and could not take her.

Lacey is a smart, sweet dog and yearns for a new family. She is crate trained, good with kids, dogs and cats. Did we mention she is a couch potato? She will enjoy watching TV or playing video games with her new family. She is also a quiet dog and will be a loyal companion to her new person or family.

Will you make a heart connection with Lacey?

Auggie is a 2 year old, 45lb, blind Red Heeler/Beagle mix. He was stray in West Virginia who thankfully landed on the land of a caring family who provide safety and comfort until transport could be arranged to PWD.

Auggie is completely vetted and has been seen by our eye specialist who noted Auggie most likely became blind due to an untreated infection and also confirmed Auggie is comfortable not painful and no further treatment is needed. The past couple weeks Auggie has been in a foster home, here is what they had to say about this precious pup:

Will you make a heart connection with Auggie?

Over 200 animals were rescued from a horrible hoarding situation in Southern PA.  All were kept in deplorable living conditions. The rescue organization reached out to PWD to help with a few that had eyes needing medical attention - we are happy to be able to help 4 of them. They all need to be spayed/neutered, receive routine vet care and to be evaluated by our eye specialist.  As expected, they are scared of humans (but non-aggressive and making progress with us as the days go on). They flourish around other dogs - you can see their personalities and love of life. They are extremely thin and look forward to not fighting for their food anymore.

We are beginning to see slight improvements in a clean and quiet environment, and to feel the earth on their paws, a simple sniff of our hand is a win in our book. We are hoping to find appropriate fosters or adoptive homes soon.

Larry is a 3 year old, 24 pound, Dachshund Mix that came to us from a hoarding situation in Southern PA. Over 200 animals were rescued from deplorable living conditions. Since arriving at PWD, Larry has received all of his routine vet care & has had his vision checked. Per the Veterinarian, Larry has evidence of a previous corneal rupture or congenital eye issue; it is currently not causing a problem, so no treatment is necessary. He does likely have some visual impairment in that eye, but you would never know it! His eye has improved in appearance since arriving, probably from a clean living environment and good nutrition. You can see the improvement in the photos.

When he arrived, he was severely underweight but just in a little over a month’s time; he has gained some much-needed weight and is looking and feeling great! Out of the four pups we rescued from this situation, Larry is the most frightened of humans. He is going to take a patient family or person, preferably with one or two confident, playful companion dogs to guide him along. He would do best in a home without cats, as he plays rough with them. Larry is currently residing in our “Beagle House” with 4 other dogs of his size. He is doing pretty well. He is learning to like his crate when we leave the house and slowly learning house manners. He has started to come out of his shell and is quite the character. He will keep you laughing at his antics. He seems to enjoy lying on the top of the couch to be able to view the room from all angles.

He has interest in human attention, but still is unsure. He will come up to your hand and may even lick your fingers for a second. Due to Larry’s fearfulness, we will require a secure fence. He is a jumper and can scale a 3 foot baby gate, so we prefer the fence be at 4 foot or higher. He is not great on a leash at the moment but we believe that over time and with some work, this will improve. He is very food motivated, so this has helped him with crate training and learning to trust humans. We believe he is a diamond in the “ruff”. In due time, and with time and patience, he is going to become a well-loved member to a lucky family.

Will you make a heart connection with Larry?

Tommy is a 3 year old, 14 pound, Italian Greyhound Mix that came to us from a hoarding situation in Southern PA. Over 200 animals were rescued from deplorable living conditions. Since arriving at PWD, Tommy has received all of his routine vet care & has had his vision checked. His vision is great, he did have an old corneal scarring in one eye but no treatment is needed per the Veterinarian. When he arrived, he was severely underweight but just in a little over a month’s time, he has gained some much needed weight and is looking great!

Tommy recently went to a foster home, who happens to be a former PWD adopter. We thank them for opening up their house and hearts to Tommy so he can learn all about living a normal home life, and to help him find his forever home. Here is what Tommy’s foster has to say about him: “Tommy = LOVE and JOY! We are not sure we could describe him more accurately. Since the moment we brought Tommy into our house, he has wanted nothing more than to give and receive love. Tommy loves to snuggle on the couch, be held, kissed, and pet. He is all about his humans, but he also loves other dogs. Tommy looks to our dogs for direction and comfort. Tommy appears to be a quick learner, already starting to master ‘sit’ and quickly learning the meaning of ‘down’ and ‘come.’ He hasn’t quite figured out the art of walking on a leash. However, we are so proud of his progress! Some of Tommy’s favorite things are: Attention from people & dogs, a high place to sit and observe, zoomies in the yard, a cozy bed with extra blankets, and playing with stuffed toys. All in all Tommy is a love bug!”

Will you make a heart connection with Tommy?

Mindy is a 1 year old, 11 pound, Italian Greyhound Mix that came to us from a hoarding situation in Southern PA. Over 200 animals were rescued from deplorable living conditions. Since arriving at PWD, Mindy has received all of her routine vet care & has had her vision checked. Her vision is great, it was noted that she had an old corneal scarring in one eye but no treatment is needed per the Veterinarian.

She arrived severely underweight but just in a little over a month’s time, she has gained some much needed weight and is looking great! Mindy currently resides in our “Beagle House” with 5 other dogs and is doing great! She LOVES the company of other dogs, so in her forever home will need at least one or more confident canine companions. She likes to chase cats, and wants to play with them so we are not sure she should live with them. She has become great buds with Allie, our pup with cerebellum hypoplasia. In her down time you can catch her curled up in a dog bed, usually with Allie, or on top of the couch where she can view all of her surroundings.

Mindy is a tiny, quick, silly little girl, who wants human attention and is now, starting to accept it when we sit on the couch with her. She requires a slow approach, but comes around quickly. She is learning that humans aren’t bad, and that we are there to love her and care for her. She is not sure how to walk on a leash, but we believe with a little training she will learn. She is able to be picked up and carried if needed. Her ideal home would have a secure fenced in yard, a couple friendly, confident canine companions and patient humans that will love her forever!

Will you make a heart connection with Mindy?

Our first Philly hoarding situation pup has been adopted!!

After a rough start in life and a few short weeks in a foster home, Elmer decided he liked his new place so much he would stay. He enjoys hanging out with his new canine siblings, playing with (their) toys, running around outside, and getting lots of treats from his new grandparents. He graciously allows his mom to sleep in "his" bed and loves to snuggle. He is super smart and mastered potty training in less than 2 weeks. We are so happy he joined our family! Congratulations to Elmer and family! From rags to riches! We love these happy endings

Meet ELMER Elmer, a vision impaired 8 year old Jack Russell Terrier Mix. Elmer is also VERY thin, but is quickly warming up to the wonderful humans that bring him food, and treats, and toys everyday. He is comfortable around other dogs and is enjoying "the good life" in a wonderful foster home.  He will be neutered and evaluated by our eye specialist. We will update his bio as we learn more about him.  UPDATE: Elmer is a dog "glued" to his person!!  He loves to follow his foster mom, spend some time in her lap, a fabulous companion.

Gucci, came to us from one of our rescue partners in Georgia. Gucci has a perineal hernia and heart issues. He has been seen by our cardiologist and has started medication and is now approved to undergo lifesaving surgery to repair his hernia, and place his organs back in the appropriate position. A complicated surgery but this little boy has a heart of gold and deserves to live his remaining years as healthy and happy as we can provide for him!

Will you make a heart connection with Gucci?

Finn came to us from one of our local shelters. He arrived as a stray and was never reclaimed.
Finn is 5.5 pounds of Yorkiepoo sweetness! He is estimated to be 12 + years old, but we believe he still has plenty of life to live from how lively he is at the rescue. He has been great with the other 4 pups he resides with and can normally be found on the same bed with 1 or 2 others. In true small dog form, he loves being carried around and really enjoys human companionship.

He has a great temperament, and we believe he would do great with kids 7 and up, due to his tiny size.
Finn would love to find a family who will love him for the remaining of his senior years. We hope to be able to make his wish happen!

Will you make a heart connection with Finn?

Sammy is officially adopted!
She fit into her new family like a well worn glove! She now has a fur sister, and 4 human children to love ❤️
From her new fur mom:
“We feel super lucky and thankful to have her part of our family. We love her so much and it seems like she has always been with us.”

Thank you to Jess Wall for fostering Sammy and successfully getting her through her orthopedic surgery and recovery.

Meet SAMMY!  Sammy is a 4 year old, 15-pound Bichon with a stunning white apricot coat. Sammy has a heartwarming story of resilience and hope. After an unfortunate accident that required immediate orthopedic surgery to repair her hip, Sammy's previous family could not provide the care she needed and made the difficult decision to surrender her to PWD.
Under the care of a compassionate medical foster, Sammy's recovery was a success. Her determination and the support she received allowed her to regain her strength and mobility, paving the way for her journey to finding a forever home.
Sammy embodies the endearing characteristics of the Bichon breed. She is incredibly affectionate and thrives on the love and attention of her human family. Sammy's gentle nature makes her great with young children and dogs her size or smaller. Additionally, she has a great relationship with cats, displaying her adaptable and friendly nature. She's a perfect companion for cuddling on the sofa, enjoying quiet moments together.
When it's time for outdoor adventures, Sammy walks beautifully on a leash, making walks a pleasure for both of you. We also think Sammy would make a great travel companion if you are the on the go type.
It's important to note that Sammy prefers not to be left alone for extended periods, and a home where she can feel secure and be part of an attentive family would be the best fit for her needs. She also seems to be more content with other canine companions.
If you're searching for a furry companion who has triumphed over adversity and is ready to bring joy and love into your life, Sammy is the one for you. Reach out to us to arrange a meeting with this resilient and affectionate Bichon, eagerly awaiting her forever family.

Meet Olsen, a blind, 5-year-old, tricolor, 35 pound, handsome Border Collie.

He came to us from a shelter in Virginia where he was found as a stray. Olsen is ready to find a new home and family to call his own. He is very connected to his people and would be considered a velcro dog. He will follow you around and will quickly become your best friend. True to the Border Collie nature, he is incredibly smart and has learned the lay of the rescue very quickly despite his blindness. He loves playing with the toys in his area. He seems to be ok with other dogs, but truly enjoys human companionship. He is the sweetest boy and is happiest when he is by your side. He does well when left alone, he is quiet and can be crated.

Olsen is fully vetted including a visit to the eye doctor and is now ready to find his forever home! He is a 10/10 and we think will make a wonderful companion. Don't miss out on this sweet fella!

Will you make a heart connection with Olson?

Chihuahua lovers, Papi would love to find his person and home. This little 8 pounder has your typical chi personality, feisty, spunky and once he gets to know you, you will have a friend for life

Will you make a heart connection with Papi?

Ally, a 1 year old, 19 lbs. corgi heeler mix. Allie was in a dire situation in rural Alabama. A kind woman took in 2 strays one being pregnant. As Ally began to grow she immediately notice she was “different.” She had an abnormal gate and coordination issues, but she was totally responsive to her and still wanted to play. Her vet was concerned and would not give her any normal puppy care without a diagnosis. Abbie needed help, and we stepped up for her. Ally’s first week here has been a whirlwind of care. First, an MRI was performed by our neurologist, confirming what we thought Cerebellum Hypoplasia. Ally’s cerebellum was not fully developed in utero. After her diagnosed she was cleared to receive her vaccinations and to be spayed! Ally is now ready to find the right home and family that will be patient with her and understand her needs.

Ally is about the sweetest dog! She is great with people, kids, and other dogs. But her adopters will need to learn how to manage her and understand her physical limitations. To manage Ally, it is vital that you understand her physical limitations. She has difficulty controlling her movements but is able to drink and eat on her own. Watching her navigate her life has been amazing. She is one determined little dog! Ally will need a safe environment to live in due to her imbalance, stairs and uneven hilly ground are a hazard for her. A non-slip floor is ideal for her. Ally needs one level living home with a flat fenced in area.

Will you make a heart connection with Ally?

Luc found a Heart Connection with Kaye Moore - thank you!

MEET LUC!

LUC is a very sweet 3 year old border collie no other rescue would consider. The shelter was concerned with major behavioral issues (OCD, non-aggressive behavior), we decided to give him a second chance since he was on the euthanasia list. He was taken from the shelter to our medical team and they recommended an MRI to rule out any physical reasons for his quirky behavior. The MRI was completed and showed no abnormalities, so Luc was put on some anxiety medications and went to an experienced foster home, to learn how to be a border collie again.

Luc is back at PWD. It has truly taken a village to help Luke, with a behavioral veterinarian and professional trainers both qualified with working dogs and OCD, and wonderful loving foster homes - Luke now has a true chance of living “his version” of a normal life.

Luc has had a challenging journey but can now thrive and find the happiness he deserves with the right person. Luke suffers from neurological issues that require special attention and care. He needs to be the only dog in the household, as he can become overwhelmed in the presence of other dogs. Luke loves cats and people of all ages, is excellent on lead, and has perfect recall off-lead. He thrives in a calm, quieter environment - few people coming and going, no barking dogs (although squeaky toys are allowed!), a more rural home setting.  When Luc becomes overstimulated, he experiences trigger stacking, which can lead to obsessive-compulsive behavior. His new family must understand and manage these triggers, providing a safe and structured environment to help him feel secure. Despite his challenges, Luc longs for a simple life filled with love, understanding, and patience. He is seeking his perfect match, someone who can appreciate his unique needs, has experience with border collies and can provide him with the stability and routine he craves. This person will find their perfect companion in Luc.

Like every other Border Collie, Luc is sweet, fun, eager to please, and loves playing fetch with his sticks and tennis balls, trail walks, and hanging out with humans. He is house and crate trained and is a great listener. We know someone can offer this remarkable Border Collie the chance he deserves. If you are that person with a calm but active lifestyle and the willingness to provide the simple life Luc seeks, please reach out to us. Let's give this incredible Border Collie a second chance he desperately needs. Help us prove that every dog can find their place in the world with love, compassion, and the right environment. You can make all the difference in transforming his life and showing him the true meaning of unconditional love and in return, he will show you his best border collie spirit and heart.

Will you make a heart connection with Luc?

Meet DAPHNE

Introducing Daphne, a beautiful 4-year-old Boxer Lab mix weighing 50 lbs. Daphne's journey began when she found herself in a rural South Carolina shelter, abandoned by her family, who deemed a trampoline more important than her. Sadly, with the shelter overcrowded, Daphne's life hung in the balance. However, the compassionate shelter staff quickly fell in love with her and became her unwavering advocates, determined to save her life. That's when Pets with Disabilities became Daphne's new lifeline.

For several months now, Daphne has been a cherished member of our rescue. During this time, she has completed her  heartworm treatment and we are monitoring her orthopedic needs. After her consultation with our orthopedic surgeon, it was confirmed that she has bilateral patella luxation that is now being controlled with pain medications. We have also had the opportunity to truly understand her character and personality. Daphne is an intelligent and alert canine companion who loves to cuddle with her human friends. Her sociable nature makes her a joy to be around, as she eagerly welcomes interaction and companionship. She has shown a particular fondness for children and enjoys their company. While Daphne seems to get along well with most dogs, it is best to avoid placing her in a home with cats.

Daphne's endearing qualities make her an ideal companion for the right person or family. She thrives in an environment where she can provide and receive love, attention, and care. With her loyalty and affection, Daphne is ready to bring joy and companionship to a forever home. If you are searching for a devoted and loving canine companion, Daphne is the one for you!

Will you make a heart connection with Daphne?

Finally, after several major surgeries our sweet girl Patty has been adopted and is adjusting great in her new home and busy city life with a kind young person who has worked diligently to make Patty feel safe.

We are so happy for Patty as she spreads her sweet spirit educating new people. We recently received an update from her new fur mom:
“Patty has been doing great in her new home in Northern Virginia! She is a pro at navigating her new surroundings and knows right where her cozy bed is! She has also learned the route to her favorite park (tail wagging the whole way!) and loves spending time exploring the grass and taking in the sunshine!
Patty is quite popular in the neighborhood and has already made tons of new dog and human friends! She is the sweetest girl and I am so lucky Patty is my new bestie! Thank you PWD and Jess for fostering Patty prior to finding her fur-ever home!”

Meet PATTY  Meet Patty the pocket Beagle!

Patty came to us on St. Patrick’s Day from a local Animal Shelter. Patty is a 13 pound, blind (no eyes), senior (8-10 years old) Beagle. Don’t let her age fool you this petite girl has a whole lot of pep in her step still! She seems to adjust to new environments pretty well considering her blindness, even navigating a couple of outdoor steps! She likes other dogs and we believe would do best with another canine companion. Patty also resides with a cat and although curious is well behaved. She also seems to be house trained.   Patty is the cutest little pocket pup and is super sweet. She’s portable and could travel along with you! Patty would make a great addition to most homes.

Boots found a Heart Connection with LEANNE BOYER - thank you!

Calling all hound lovers!
Boots is a 3 yr old, 65 pound, blind hound that has never had a real home. Boots spent his life living in a dirty pen with other hunting dogs. Although Boots was obviously blind, diabetic like symptoms were noticed (increased thirst/urination). Our internal medicine team assessed him and diagnosed him with Diabetes Insipidus, a disease where the pituitary gland fails to regulate fluid intake and output. Boots’ condition is easily managed with affordable oral medication.

Because Boots was never in a home, he is currently being fostered (a HUGE thank you to Trails End Pet Sitting, LLC) to learn home manners. He is thriving in a home environment and quickly learns the lay of the land. While he does take time to warm up to new people, he absolutely loves the company of other dogs. Boots would prefer to not share his home with feline friends. He wrestles, plays tug and does all the things any other dog does! He is learning what things are toys versus things that are not (blankets, towels, pillows, beds, etc.) but is quickly redirected when he gets it wrong. He does crate when alone and at night without any issue. He has found his hound voice and loves to use it when playing, wanting attention or for feedback to know his people are near.  He is truly a gem and can’t wait to find for forever home!

We also would consider a long term foster to adopt. Please consider Mr. Boots.

Will you make a heart connection with Boots?

We are so happy to report that Redtops, now known as Rusty, has left the building!
We are thrilled that he is going to be able to live out his golden years with this lovely couple who were so excited to open their home and hearts to Rusty.

Here is a little update from his new Mom:
“Rusty is a loverboy. Loves the car and REALLY loves his walks. He also loves being brushed. We adore him!! We LOVE his twirling when happy!!!”
When he left the PWD campus he jumped into their car and never looked back! We take that as a compliment though- we were the bridge that helped him get to his next chapter.   Congratulations Rusty enjoy your coastal living life, and thank you to your new pawrents for not blinking an eye at adopting a senior

Meet REDTOPS!  Meet Redtops, aka Reds! Reds is an adorable 15 lb senior Corgi mix. He is 13 years old. He was surrendered to one of our local shelters due to their caretakers failing health After his senior vet check-up, Redtops is a very healthy senior!
He is a sweet dog that still has a lot of pep in his step, he is playful, great appetite, loves his treats and of course his bed. We would love to see him in a home as a cherished member of a family for his remaining senior years. Redtops has done well with other dogs his own size, and for the most part house broken. Nothing more gratifying then to adopt a senior.

Update from Home:  "Jenny's doing so well, there are no problems. She's a total love bug. She chases bugs mostly and squirrels, loves her new yard with doggies on the other side.  And neighbor kids love her, we go for walks, she's excellent on the leash.  I do believe that dogs and people find their way to each other. That's Jenny and me."

MEET JENNY Jenny is a 5 year old, 48lb German Shepherd mix who was pulled from a shelter by one of our rescue partners. After a few months with us, we have successfully treated her heartworm and have assessed her orthopedic condition. The conclusion is that Jenny has bilateral hip dysplasia, but her specific level of need can be treated with controlled quality-of-life measures such as weight management, exercise, and traditional over-the-counter supplements. In fact, since dysplasia is common in Shepherd breeds, experienced owners will likely be familiar with care and treatment.

But Jenny does not require an experienced Shepherd owner; she only requires a home looking for a dog who is smart, alert, loyal, and susceptible to training. She is house-broken, crate and lead-trained, and she has been successfully tested with both dogs and cats, although lower-energy fur-siblings may be a better fit so that Jenny's exercise can be more easily controlled.

If you are looking for wonderful dog that will thrive living a simpler or slower pace to life, then Jenny may be a good fit for you.

Shirley is hearing impaired and had a large suspicious mass on her back leg. She is approximately 8 years old 20 lbs., Dachshund/Beagle mix. Shirley was pulled minutes before she was to be euthanized. She is  an older dog with special needs, unfortunately these dogs are marked first to be killed. The shelter staff was so thankful we were able to get this arranged so quickly. Shirley was a bit nervous, but her new friend Vinnie (also pulled the same time) set her mind at ease as they were both traveled safely up to PWD.

Since Shirley's arrival we have surgically removed her masses and thankfully they were benign. She has settled nicely with the help of the other dogs at the Regal Beagle House. She looks to her hearing friends for guidance and confidence. She would benefit having a kind hearing dog to help and guide her in her new home. She enjoys hanging on the sofa and has slowly warmed up to us. She is a good dog and a perfect size. She will need a patient person to gain her trust, but once that bond is established you will have a companion for life.

Will you make a heart connection with Shirley?

Matt found a Heart Connection with Christina Milford - thank you!

MEET MATT

Matt came to us from one of our local shelters. A plea was put out and we answered. He was originally found as a stray, unable to use his rear legs. Being a senior, paralyzed dog, his chances of adoption or even rescue were slim.

Mike went right to work taking measurements and fitting him to a wheelchair for his needs. Within hours of arrival, Matt was up and rolling in his new ride! Such a sense of freedom and independence when they realize they can move easy again! Matt has been with us for over a year without any interest. At times Matt is able to walk on all 4 legs but the majority of time he does need his wheelchair for support.

Matt is a fantastic dog with a great temperament! He gets along with everyone and all dogs! He loves his ball and is very fast in his wheelchair.  We all feel he would be a fantastic therapy dog! He needs "one level living".

We are looking for a special person to partner with us in Matt's care. While every adopter becomes a lifetime member of the PWD family, Matt's person would be an active member as a "medical foster." This means that because Matt struggles with incontinency and mobility, he requires additional patience and maintenance. PWD would still stay very involved as the legal "owner", continuing to provide support, specialized diet if needed, medicine and veterinary care. The goal of this partnership is to place dogs with a fabulous temperament into a loving home, to have "their people", and live their life to the fullest. If you are interested in participating in this partnership, please contact Joyce.

Will you make a heart connection with Matt?

Halo found a Heart Connection with Kimberly Kinsey Martha Baynard made a Heart Connection with Halo

HALO - an 8 year old, 25lb Cockapoo, was surrendered to PWD by her family after she developed medical issues. After assessing Halo, we found out her resulting issues were actually from a stroke. Despite her subsequent disabilities, she is spunky, mobile, and determined. She has a lively personality, loves toys and is small and easy to carry and hold in your lap! Halo has never needed a wheelchair to get around - but she does require one-level living.

We are looking for a special person to partner with us in Halo's care. While every adopter becomes a lifetime member of the PWD family, Halo's person would be an active member as a "medical foster." This means that because Halo struggles with incontinency, she requires additional patience and maintenance. PWD would still stay very involved as the legal "owner", continuing to provide support, specialized diet if needed, medicine and veterinary care. The goal of this partnership is to place dogs with a fabulous temperament into a loving home, to have "their people", and live their life to the fullest. If you are interested in participating in this partnership, please contact Joyce.

Will you make a heart connection with Halo?

Jane Gentile found a Heart Connection with Bishop - thank you!

Bishop is a handsome 4-5 year old lemon  hound, who is deaf.  He  was surrendered to one of our Virginia shelters we partner with.  He is  about 50 lbs., fun, active, goofy pup, that will put a smile on your face.  He loves attention, and will curl up and lay on just about anything. He has flourished here at PWD and has made many new friends here. A sweet gentle soul good with people, cats and great with kids.  However, Bishop has some possession issues  with other dogs and so we do feel he does needs to be an only dog.   Bishop would do great in a secure  area or leash walking. 

UPDATE: Bishop’s life change here at PWD when very experience and compassionate foster person came to visit with some of our pups. She asked if she could help Bishop. (of our long timers here at PWD) This is her first experience with a hearing impaired dog and a hound! In his first days they have accomplished a lot together! Here is her first update

He had a better night last night. He is in the doggy suite now for while in preparation to a longer stay tomorrow when I go to work. Have only heard him bark once or twice. He is a sweet boy and it is funny, we are working on sitting before we go thru a doorway, and while he is getting the hang of it before we leave the house, going back in is another story. He is smart and knows what I want but he will actually turn his head away from me like a stubborn child how doesn’t want to do something. I have lots of time so I just wait til he decides to sit, however briefly, he gets a piece of kibble then we go in but it is so funny to see him actually turn his head as if to say, nope not doing it. I normally wouldn’t be doing this this soon but he is so smart, that I think he needs and can do these simple challenges. He gets a treat and a thumbs up sign each time he does something good. He gets a high value treat, a tiny piece of chicken, each time he potties outside as inside still is an issue.

Oct 1st - Foster mom UPDATE: Bishop has been amazing in short time he has been here. Has he been a perfect angel, no, but in just two weeks he has learned the signs for come, sit, wait and down. He sits and waits to go out and to come inside and he sits and waits for his breakfast and dinner. His leash manners vastly improved once he became comfortable with his new walking areas. Is he 100% no, but then who is, he is still a work in progress and with each day we practice, he improves a bit more and is proud of himself, you can see by the smile on his face.

With any dog, if you want them to do something you must first get their attention usually by calling, clapping etc. but Bishop is deaf so you have to get his attention another way. To help with this challenge, he just got a present, a vibrating collar. Over the next few weeks we will be working on training with him to understand that the jiggling of his collar means look to me for a command sign. This will be a learning experience for both of us, there will be lots of treats involved, chicken for him, hot fudge sundaes for me, He is so smart bet he does much better than me.

Bishop is thrilled to have visitors come to the house, male or female, young or old, he loves them all. He is respectful, does not jump but follows them everywhere in the house. He loves his walks, running in the yard and chilling on the deck. I know he would love to go hiking or jogging, something this foster would love to do with him but can’t ....Could you?

Oct 21st - Foster mom UPDATE: Bishop continues to amaze me. He is a love, full of energy who lives to explore new sights and smells...especially the smells as his nose works overtime. He would be a great walking or hiking companion provided he was always on a leash. He is always thrilled greet anyone he meets along the way with a tail that doesn’t stop wagging.  We had to abandon the vibrating collar as it really frightened him even set on the lowest setting and are now exploring others ways of communicating. As long as treats are part of this process Bishop is always happy to try

His Aunt Jane gave him two doggy puzzles and he ❤️ 💕 💗 the challenge ( and of course all the treats he uncovers)

July 2020 - Bishop is a sweet, quirky ,independent and stubborn guy and is a work in progress. He is not a couch potato, is quite active and loves to be able to see and be outside. He loves sleeping in the sun and watching the world go by from the security of my second story front deck. Inside, if anything is blocking his view he will remove it such as shades, blinds and curtains. His nose drives his brain, if he catches a scent, specially a rabbit he goes bonkers and should the rabbit run under the fence, he is lightening fast and will try his hardest to wiggle under after the bunny. As he is deaf he can’t hear if he is called so he will not respond to a recall and will be long gone in a heartbeat. To keep him safe, he is always leashed when we go outside. He loves his long walks everyday however he is a strong guy and at times can pull very hard on his leash so needs a strong handler. Would love to take him on car rides and trips but he get very car sick even with anti nausea meds

Bishop has a fairly active bladder which means multiple trips outside at dawn, during the day and evening hours are a must. He lets you know he needs to go outside by tipping things over, plants, small tables, fans etc., if it is on the floor, nothing is off limits , even the in floor air registers, he pulls them out of the floor. He repeats this quirky behavior when he decides it is his meal time. He can not be crated, if closed in a room, will destroy the door to get out and still can not go all day without an accident

He has learned hand signals and knows sit, wait and down. He loves people and long walks but is extremely picky about other dogs and can quite bossy I am told. I do not have a cat but understand he was fine with them? While he is normally fairly quiet, he has his moments of loud barking, not great if you have close neighbors

Will you be Bishop's "heart connection"?

Updated June 2021