Rescued 2009

Gus with his best friend Patches the cat lying on the couch together.
They live with Dawn in Wisconsin.

Dear LIN:  I can’t thank you enough for sending Gussie our way.  Our little family was incomplete until Gussie came to stay, and I am very blessed and eternally grateful to all of you that helped bring him to us (Sue, Lynn, Kelly, and Connie).  As you can probably tell, he’s very camera shy!  It’s only been a couple of months, but he is showing more and more of his inner spirit each and every day.  He’s still just a feather-weight dog (at only 53 lbs.) but he is gorgeous and so regal when he stands alert in the backyard.  When out and about with him, people comment how beautiful he is, and I just beam with pride.  Gus’ favorite spot in our yard is beneath the pines where it is both shady and secluded.  He can keep watch on all the activities in the yard, and be able to sneak up on any rogue cat, squirrel, rabbit, or bird that crosses his path.  He loves his daily walks, and has learned to meet and greet other dogs on our walks.  He is so well-behaved!  The other dogs bark and pull on their owners’ leashes, but not Gus – he walks politely, never barks or growls, and doesn’t pull at all.  He is truly a pleasure to walk!  When in the house, his favorite spot is in front of the refrigerator or down in the den on the couch (now known as Gus’ couch).  He’s so tall, he stretches end-to-end on his personal couch.  He has a personal toy box down in the den, but has no idea what to do with stuffed animals, balls, or other assorted items.  He has learned that rawhide bones are yummy, and he does enjoy those occasionally.  PLAY is a word that Gussie doesn’t yet understand – that it’s OK to have fun and run around.  We are trying several ways to get him to play, but haven’t yet found that trigger for him.  Perhaps I’ll find that he will never be a dog that loves to play, but we’ll see.  He has refined his command skills with sit, wait, and come.  We’re still working on down, but that will eventually come.  He knows that the word “car” means he gets to ride in the car, and he loves that.  As you can see, he loves Patches (the cat), and they are best buddies.  This was something I hoped and prayed for, and was happy to see.  Although they aren’t snuggle buddies yet, I’m certain that will eventually come.  There is so much more to learn about Gussie, and each day is a brighter one because he is here with us.  Thanks again for selecting my home for Gus – he’s the perfect addition!

Hugs and best regards,

Dawn