CASPER is an energetic, sensitive, and tenacious dog that came into our lives over a year ago. We have individualized his care in many ways over the last 441 days, but we have learned that CASPER needs even more support. That’s where trained professionals and a unique environment come into the equation. Hence, CASPER goes to camp.
So, what’s this about a dog camp?
As of August 25, CASPER has been staying at Happy Tails Pet Resort & Camp in Muskoka. For a total of 110 days, CASPER will be living off the land and experiencing life without city noises, distractions, or expectations. Think of it as the staycation of the century or, rather, his home-away-from-foster-home. Case in point: this dog has a real hankering for swimming, and so far, he’s been loving the pond there.
In a rural setting, we’re eager to find out how this space helps CASPER de-stress with the uninterrupted support that specialized care allows. We expect that this will help us better understand him. From there, recognizing what his future setting/environment/set-up might best look like and how to prepare him for it will come. In many cases, a change in the environment can be the tool that allows for a more mentally balanced life.
Real talk though, this is part of the last option we have for CASPER. We have given this boy exhaustive attention while with us and his future is not yet paved. As a rescue, we hope to be the source that finds each dog we take responsibility for, the right fit. With CASPER’s idiosyncrasies, it has so far shown us that his ideal spot may not exist. After multiple meet and greets and no adoption interest, we know his home, if it can be found, will be specific. Can you help?
More about CASPER
This four-year-old collie mix is well-mannered with leash walking and his recall is great. It’s his interactions with people that prove a different story. A previous bite history and a more recent moment that could have (though didn’t) lead to a bite is something we’re highly attentive to. Kids aren’t to be a part of CASPER’s life because of this. This is OK because not all dogs are interested in hanging out with these little humans anyway. He also needs particular interactions with humans & a structured lifestyle, especially when house guests are around.
This scruff’s favourite way to pass time is playing fetch or tug. He’s a fun dog with a couple of dog besties that he likes to go on adventurous hikes with. Always happier with specific boundaries, CASPER shows his best self with routine, structure, adventure, and a confident person by his side. CASPER, although adorable, is an intense dog, and what we’ve learned about him so far is that the structure needed for him to remain comfortable and balanced needs to match that intensity.
Helping CASPER find his furever
CASPER is still up for adoption, or perhaps we should say…we are still in search of the right future for him. That may not be a plain old adoption. It might be a long-term boarding spot, a working dog job, a sanctuary space etc. If you think you have a potential option for him, let’s talk about it. **He will be unavailable to meet anyone until after his program is completed in December. For a greater understanding of who CASPER is as a dog, take a read through his updated bio, or reach out to us to discuss by emailing jenna@saveourscruff.org.
