Bubbles

Bubbles’ life turned upside down when her owner/breeder from Virginia died and bequeathed her Springers to MAESSR.  Bubbles went from being a kennel dog to an inside, family pet.

This sweet but very skittish dog had little contact with other animals and humans.  Since she had not lived in a home before, everything is new and scary to her.  She has made good progress since coming into foster care but it will take quite a while for her to be completely relaxed inside.

Frightened yet docile at her vet visit, Bubbles received her vaccinations and the vet proclaimed her a healthy dog. Her heartworm test will be done shortly and then in mid-September she will be spayed. 

When Bubbles first came to her foster home, she didn’t know what treats, bones, or dog toys were and what to do with them. She was also a picky eater. She’s a much better eater now although her foster parents spike her kibble with one tablespoon of wet food. She now loves bones but is still picky about treats. She also loves to run after her dog toys and play with them.

Based on her progress so far, her foster parents think Bubbles will be a very affectionate dog. She loves tummy rubs and wants to be close to her people.  Her foster home does not have any other animals or children in it, so they do not know how Bubbles would be with kids.  When being walked, she does not want contact with other dogs. She either backs away from them or barks.  She has had no contact with cats. When she encounters cars, trucks or loud noises on walks, she also is afraid.

The only command Bubbles seems to know is “no” and she will respond promptly to that word. She is not housetrained and is having trouble understanding the concept. She has made some progress but not as much as her foster parents have hoped.  Bubbles is crate trained and rides quietly in a crate in the car. She slept in the crate the first few nights in her foster home without issue but then discovered the bed and she is very happy there. She also likes sleeping on a sofa preferably with one of her people petting her. She stays her crate when there is no one at home. When her foster parents return, they have heard her barking, but she stops as soon as they call her name.

Leash walking is also a work in progress.  She is a strong dog and when she sees a bird, squirrel, or rabbit, she pulls hard in circles.

Bubbles is fed in the kitchen and shows no inclination to guard her food. She has tried to counter-surf a few times, but her family is very careful not to leave food close to the edge of the counter. She clearly wants to please her people so her behavior will improve and she will become a good house dog.

Finding a forever home should not be difficult for Bubbles.  This beautiful sweetheart has lots of love to give and surely love will be lavished on her as well.