Rooby, a four-year-old female Doberman pinscher-mastiff mix, likes her space and needs a bit of patience.
The dog has been waiting for her forever home at the Toronto Humane Society (THS) since August, when she was surrendered, said THS spokesman Lucas Solowey.
“She’s been in foster homes since, but she’s looking for a place to call home,” he added. “She’s polite, well-mannered, she does prefer a bit of space from other dogs and unfamiliar people. She does respond well to positive reinforcement. And she does have pretty good manners.”
However, it’s important when it comes to being introduced to new people, “it’s slow, gentle and stress-free as much as possible,” said Solowey, who added Rooby wears a muzzle when on walks but doesn’t have a history of biting.
The muzzle helps her feel more calm and relaxed, he added.
“And she also has had fear, anxiety and stress in the past, but in the right environment and with consistency, that’s greatly reduced. When the muzzle goes on, she knows she’s going for a walk. So positive association.”
Solowey added Rooby is “amazing. She’s a favourite among (THS) staff and volunteers — she’s great. It’s just she needs the right situation. So, someone who is going to be patient with her and not spring new people or other dogs on her too quickly.”
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Solowey said house without other animals and small children would be ideal.
“Maybe older kids and adults would work,” he said. “I think her ideal home would be people who are patient, who are maybe active, because she does have energy. So it would be good to be with someone who would take her for walks and exercise.”
Since Rooby is prone to ear infections, Solowey recommended regular cleaning and drying then whenever they are wet.
“She’s playful, she’s funny, and she’s very smart,” he summed up. “She’ll do almost anything for a treat.”
Anyone interested in adopting Rooby can visit www.torontohumanesociety.com, to start the adoption process.
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UPDATE: Buddy, an eight-month-old mixed-breed dog, from November’s Forever Friend column was adopted.