Blaze

INTRODUCTION     As told by Blaze

My foster mom and dad have gotten to know me very well in the past two months. In the first week of our acquaintance, foster dad thought that my name was “aspirational,” for he saw an anxious, skittish and withdrawn 1-year-old whose brief life as a breeder had left little room for the joy for which goldens are so well known. Instead of a blaze, I was more of a shadow. But during the past eight weeks – as I have experienced all the new and wonderful things that living in a home provides – I have begun to come out of my shell. I am beginning to burn brighter and brighter.

It hasn’t been easy. There is a lot I have to let go of and there is still so much to learn. But my foster mom and dad and my foster dog brother, Gino, are patiently showing me the ropes. Mom and dad are fantastic, and I go to them for all the affection I can get – who knew the bliss of getting one’s face rubbed! But when I really want to learn the ins and outs of this new life, Gino has been my guide. He has taught me how to climb stairs and how much fun it is to go on long walks with dad or mom, especially in the forest preserve. It’s odd, I know, but without a four-legged companion, I am not too keen on walking. Give me a buddy, however, and I’m ready to log some serious miles.

And it’s not just Gino that I like! I’ve visited other places and my rattling nerves were instantly calmed as soon as I heard a welcoming bark. It can take me a while to warm up to people (though that is getting better), but I’m completely simpatico with furry friends.

One thing you definitely need to understand is that crates are complicated for me. I am very happy to spend some time in the crate mom and dad have for me; in fact, I love to wander through the house and gather toys to fill up the space. However, please do not lock me into a crate! I get really anxious, and I’ve been known to work with almost super-doggy strength to try to get out. Dad and mom understand my anxiety and have been experimenting with leaving Gino and me alone in a gated room along with an open crate that I can go in and out of at will. That has worked really well!

There are a few other behaviors that I still need to work on as well. I am learning boundaries regarding helping myself to food, and I have been known to steal slippers and chew paper and maybe an occasional errant ear bud (sorry, dad). But I am smart, and I want to please, so if you are patient and willing to put in the time with me, I know we can be a great team.

This guy named Tesla once said that “the spread of civilization may be likened to a fire; first a feeble spark, next a flickering flame, then a mighty blaze.” I have no idea what a civilization is, but I think Tesla was talking about me. Interested? Let’s talk.

BEHAVIOR

• Skittish around quick movement
• Timid, especially in crowded places
• May growl a bit in uncomfortable situations
• Medium-low energy now; may become more active as he adjusts to his forever home
• Getting more comfortable in car
• Likes squeaky toys
• Learning commands

 HEALTH

• Recently neutered; still recovering
• Has been treated for ear infections