(Article by Suzan S.)
Jim the Poster Dog
Jim is the poster dog for why you should rescue animals! Adoption saves lives. He crossed state lines via a transport from a high kill shelter in California’s central valley to Oregon. Here is his story.
My friend Kim wanted to foster a German Shepard dog (GSD) mix from California. Regrettably, the shelter did not allow out-of-state fosters. Kim, a professional groomer, (It’s a Dog’s Life, Depoe Bay) knew by Jim’s eyes he had terrific potential and wanted desperately to save him.
I visited her shop and she talked to me about Jim. His rap sheet was typically short: stray, no chip, not claimed after three days, no signs of aggression, no interest at 10 days, estimated five years old. Kim had just learned Jim was tagged for euthanasia within two hours. And she doubted he was five years old.
I lost my precious 14-year old yellow lab rescue a month earlier and wasn’t ready for another dog. After hearing Kim’s concern, I agreed to adopt Jim and, if necessary, work with her to find him a new home.
Rescue Means Saving A Dogs Life
When you rescue a dog, you typically don’t have the option to swing by a shelter and check out the animal. Rescue means you are saving a dog tagged for euthanasia, sight unseen, and giving him/her a second chance. Adoption saves lives. Most people prefer to foster first. But fostering is not always an option.
The rescue in California that found Jim arranged transport and a rescue in Portland, OR sponsored him. When Jim reached Albany, he looked ragged and acted dejected. At Jim’s first vet appointment, his estimated age was 18 months to two years. Kim thought he was at most 18 months old. We learned later he is a GSD, husky, kunger and pittie mix.
Jim was scared. Pooped and peed on concrete. Didn’t know basic commands. He wasn’t house broken. He did not know how to play. But Jim responded well to cuddles and riding in the car. He LOVED riding in the car and eagerly jumped into any car with an open door! Yikes!
Jim and I started training with Glen (Smart Dogs Training, Salem). I liked Glen’s approach to one-on-one training in public places, like Riverfront Park, Home Depot, and Mud Play. His method ensures individual training priorities are met while the dog and partner navigate real life distractions. Due to Jim’s affectionate nature and love of people, Glen recommended I consider training him to be a service dog.
I quickly learned Jim needs a job where change is ongoing. Once he masters a puzzle or situation, he is ready to move on. Been there, done that. This is when Jim and I started our partnership to work with Pet Partners.
Jim enjoys training and we are well on our way to becoming a registered team with Pet Partners. Early on, I wasn’t sure about getting another dog, training it, and actively helping my community. But as we continue to work together, Jim ensures I shake my booty and live an active life style. And what’s best is we are a team that works to support members of our community.
From Suzan, Jim & Glen, please adopt a dog. You will save a dog’s life. Give them a second chance in life. We thank you and so will your loving new family member.