Gerald is a very handsome 10-year-old Dachshund weighing 25lbs. He does not appear to be overweight but he is quite long. He was surrendered to a shelter with another dog after their owner passed away.
Gerald is a very sweet boy, who doesn't look or act his age. He absolutely loves playing with squeaky toys and his giggle ball. He gets along well with the other female Dachshund in the home. He doesn't play with other dogs but he enjoys their company. This fellow came from Alabama so is not used to the cold weather. He is housebroken but will use pee pads in cold or bad weather. Typical of his breed, he loves food. He has a sensitive tummy so currently is on Royal Canin Veterinarian Gastro and a bit of canned twice daily. He will be transitioning to Royal Canin Weight Control once the bag is done.
The dog that was surrendered with Gerald was picking on him constantly so it was obvious they were not a bonded pair. He has yet to see a cat and doesn't bother with the squirrels he sees in the backyard. Gerald loves his doggie bed and blankets. He is not one that requires cuddling on the couch, he seems to be more comfortable being by your feed his doggie bed.
Boy oh boy does this fellow love his car rides. He will go with anyone that is willing to take him for a drive. He rides quite well in the car. We believe once the warm weather arrives he will enjoy going for walks. We know nothing about the type of environment he used to live in but we know that he could not do a flight of stairs. He is able to manage 4 on his own.
Gerald is not a yappy dog. He likes his naps but still has a curious playful nature when his toys come out of hiding. He takes treats gently. We do not know how he is with children. We do know he has a grade 2 heart murmur but no medication is required. He can get protective over specific toys, whether with people or other dogs, so one needs to be watchful of that trait. Substituting a high-value treat for the toy is a good alternative. Gerald was wonderful at the groomers. He will race to the fridge as soon as you open it and would go right inside if you let him.
We believe the ideal home for Gerald would be a quiet home, maybe empty nesters. He should have another socialized canine in the home but not a playmate, just a companion, perhaps another senior dog. He has a few winter coats and has started enjoying two walks a day now that his nails have been clipped. His home should be cat-free since we do not know how he is with them. Older children 10 years plus should be fine.
Gerald is neutered, up to date with vaccines, heartworm tested negative, microchipped, and on heartworm, flea/tick prevention for November.
A fully fenced yard, another social canine, and a Veterinarian History of Compliance is mandatory in order to apply for our Gerald.
