Update: 6-19-2012 Ciri had been ADOPTED!
Ciri is only 3 months, 15 lb. (4/28/12). Ciri is an exceptionally lovely 3 month old purebred Australian Shepherd puppy (whelped 01-28-12). She was bought from a breeder but turned over to rescue when it was discovered that she is deaf, the result of a merle-to-merle breeding. Typical of her breed, she is very smart, attentive, active, and adoring of her people. She learns new things quickly, and has already been a star in puppy classes.
Deafness does not stand in the way of her training or her happinessshe knows no other way of being!and the few special accommodations for training a deaf puppy are primarily about safety and getting her attention. For safety, although she will learn recall tricks, keeping her on leash or in a well-fenced place when outside will probably be the safest for her in most cases, even when she is grown. As for getting her attention, she is already learning to look to her people for instructions, but in the moments she isnt, a gentle tap on the rear or light tug of the leash usually does the trick! Once she is looking at you, shell follow the commands she been taught as well as any well-trained hearing dog, and she learns them just as quickly.
Ciri loves other animals and will do well in a home with another friendly dog or cat, but she can also be a beloved solo companion. Typical of her age, she needs lots of human interaction at this point in her development, some time training every day, close supervision, and toys & treats for training and play. She cannot be left alone all day, so would need someone who was home or had flexible hours or a hired dog walker or doggie daycare at this stage.
She might jump up on very young children until she is quite a bit older, but she adores older kids. She is crate-trained and doing well with housebreaking. She is participating in puppy classes and other forms of socialization in her foster home. She trains well to praise, treats, and toysa super learner! She also enjoys playing fetch with a tennis ball. As she gets older, she will share the needs of other Aussies plenty of healthy exercise and jobs or tasks to keep her mind busy along with quality time with her human(s).
She will be an inside dog, one who wants to be right with you sharing your life. She will likely be at least 45-50 pounds when she is fully grown. Ciri is very healthy. She has had full exams at two vets and an animal ophthalmologist (we have full report). She will go to her new home up-to-date on her puppy vaccinations and with a puppy contract and deposit that stipulates her adopter will finish her series of vaccinations (if she is adopted before 16-18 weeks) and ensure that she is spayed.
Austin Aussie Rescue is affiliated with South Texas Aussie Rescue (STAR), a recognized 501(c)3 charitable organization. To fill out an online Adoption Application, click here. This does not commit you in any way, but helps us make the best match between people and available dogs.
More about Ciri: She is Up-to-date with routine shots • House trained • Prefers a home without: young children • Special Needs • Primary colors: White or Cream, Merle (Blue) • Coat length: Medium
FOR MORE INFORMATION, please contact: austinaussierescue@hotmail.com.
