Iona

We’re really really struggling to find Jake a home, we knew it wouldn’t be easy, but it’s not impossible. If everyone who sees his post can share, the power of sharing really does make a difference. Let’s help Jake have a better life. Jake is a 6 year old Bearded collie x Boarder Collie. Jake is a product of his environment. He lived in home with two elderly owners, and has grown up with both of them going through the various stages of dementia. Other than walk and feed Jake, both owners had no idea of how to train or look after a dog. As a result he has had a stressful life to date, and at times has suffered physical abuse as a method of control. This shows in his behaviour, (nervous, defensive and will attack if feels threatened). Training has been at a basic level, house trained and walking on the lead. Jake gets nervous of noise, phones ,hoovers etc. This will lead to excessive barking and with hoovers he will attack them. In the late evening he will start barking for no good reason. Probably this is related to his owners health condition as dementia sufferers symptoms get worse later in the day. That sums up Jake’s bad points. Outside Jake is a different dog. He no longer pulls on the lead when walking, takes a command to wait and is more comfortable with passing vehicles. Small fast cars are still a slight issue. He is no problem when he meets people outside and will lie down should a conversation take place. Most times he is fine meeting other dogs. The exception is if another dog gets aggressive. He will respond. He does not like cats! It should be noted that Jake is also ok with people coming into the house. He loves to run and fetch a ball. He will happily play outside all day if someone is throwing a ball. Currently this is done on a long rope lead as his play area is not fully enclosed. Jake requires a quiet home with owners who understand the breed, and can continue to improve his issues. He is not ready ( and may never be) for a house with young children. He needs his space to regain the trust that a raised voice or hand is not a threat. Over the past 6 weeks there has been an improvement in his behaviour. That said there is still a way to go before he becomes the dog he can and should be. Jake has a diet of dry food mixed with a small sachet of wet food. In addition to this he does get treats, which he enjoys, as a reward. From the limited experience with Jake he has been ok in the car. Jake has and has always had a large cage that he goes into if left alone. He also sleeps in it at night. He is fit and healthy. For anymore information please email [email protected]