Rico is a 6-year-old, 80 lb neutered male German Shepherd with a very sad story looking for a brighter future. He seems older than his years, due to his history of neglect, but he is now safe in foster care and getting the TLC he will need to thrive. Rico has chronic skin issues that are improving, but will need ongoing supportive care with quality food and supplements. He will also need a structured exercise regimen to promote muscle growth and weight loss. Rico is open to connection with a human -- you can see it in his eyes. He has no aggressive tendencies with humans or dogs but is just awkward with interaction. You can see he wants to do it! He is house trained (with regular access to potty breaks) and crate trained, and has quickly learned some basic obedience such as sit and heel in foster care. He does not have any reactivity on leash but does pull without a prong collar. He seems to have some prey drive for toys (which will be helpful for connection and his spirit!) and cars. We will test him with cats and share that info. More updates as we get to know him.
Rico was purchased from Tannerhaus GSD, a "reputable breeder" that advertises they take their dogs back, but when Rico's senior owner had to move to assisted living, the breeder did not uphold the contract. Rico's family discovered that Rico had not been let outside regularly in years, was forced to potty in the house, and did not have regular access to water; he was more of a well-fed houseplant with limited mental or physical stimulation, or even touch. His owner's family could not find placement for him and moved him to a kennel where he stayed for months and developed skin issues, including a systemic fungal infection. When they could no longer afford to kennel him, they reached out and we could not refuse to help him. Rico found emergency placement and began his journey to recovery. He is now in foster care and making great progress.
Ideal Home
Rico would benefit from a home that can provide him with a structured environment, consistent routine, and a patient approach to building trust.
Ongoing Health
Rico has some chronic skin issues that are improving but will require ongoing supportive care with quality food and supplements.
Training & Support
Rico pulls without a prong collar, so a prong collar is recommended for leash walks. He has a prey drive for toys and cars.
Application Details:
- Applications start by contacting us through Wags.
- The adoption fee is $575 which includes his neuter, core vaccinations, DPPV, Bordetella, microchip, and recent health check with a veterinarian.
- Adoption fee may be tax deductible as DGS is a 501c3 organization.
Transportation
Rico is currently in Bothell, WA and is available for adoption to the greater Seattle area. We are continuing to work on his physical and mental condition. We will update his profile as he progresses.
