Tess - Adopted!

Tess is a young smooth coat collie cross dog, probably born in early 2009. She is an extremely affectionate dog and still learning her manners. At this time it is still affection first, manners second. Most of the time she is very well behaved but she does have some things we are still working on. She likes to jump up and is learning she only gets attention when she sits quietly. She forgets on occasion, so needs continuing reinforcement. She is housetrained and when in the house is content to curl up quietly on her bed. She can sit and is learning down. She walks nicely on a leash.

Tess and her sister (already adopted) where left on the foster mother's property. We think they were deserted because they tended to be escape artists. When they first arrived, the foster mom was constantly chasing them down. Digging seemed to be the preferred mode of escape. But then, once the fencing was corrected to prevent digging near the fence, Tess quit digging and channeled her attention to jumping. We secured the fence in a few places and have had no more trouble.

Now that she has been with us for a while, formed relationships with the other dogs, and sees this as a safe place, she has ceased trying to get out. We tested her the other day by opening the farm gate and letting her go out. When called she immediately came back and showed no interest in the open gate again.

We believe that Tess was punished when she returned home after escapes at her previous home so she needs to learn to trust in order to approach her handler without fear. Otherwise she is outgoing and appears confident. She loves to be petted and loved on. She will need excellent fencing or 5-6' block wall. Another option is an electronic fence that can be put down in most back yards for less than $200.

This little girl would be a good jogging or walking companion, but off leash running is not recommended. She is good with children but may be too active for little ones. She seems to have no malice toward cats but she is interested in chasing and barking at them, so she should be considered in a cat home only where the cats will put her in her place.

Tess is a pretty dog and a nice small medium size. Her white markings are striking. She is happiest with a male dog and can be selective about the female dogs she chooses for her friends. She is not recommended to be around senior dogs and would be happiest with a calm male dog.

For more information on Tess please call KARON 281-0330 Hm or work M-Th at 844-8283