Barney (On Trial 28/7/13)

Introducing the delightful Barney, 2 year old Mastiff cross. This spectacular boy has been waiting such a long time, and all he wants is a family to call his very own. Barney has overcome terrible anxiety since coming to Dog Rescue Newcastle eight months ago. When he arrived he was such a timid boy who’d obviously been treated very badly. He has made outstanding progress since then and is now a happy, sociable and well-balanced dog.

Barney embraces all human and doggy friends. He is equally comfortable with the rough and tumble antics of my large dog, and the gentle play needed for my ancient cattle dog. Barney has met dogs and people of all ages and sizes, impressing everyone he meets. In fact, he’s made such an impression on the waitresses at our favourite café, that they remember his vegemite toast each week- we don’t even have to order.

To say Barney is a gentle soul would be the understatement of the decade. He has shown absolutely no aggression whatsoever. Even when another dog tried to start a fight at the beach, Barney cowered at my feet and made no attempt to retaliate. He watched a mouse playing for an hour and made no attempt to catch it, and even though he was fascinated by my dad’s noisy lorikeet, he was happy just to sit and watch it. Barney has chased a cat from our yard but came back as soon as he was called.

Being such an affectionate boy, Barney will need to be part of the family. He is never far from me and always likes to watch what I’m up to. He potters around the yard with me, sits and watches as I do household chores and then comes up for cuddles once I’m done. He has won the hearts of my neighbours who call him to the fence for pats. Even my 5yo niece thinks he’s beautiful.

Barney is quite strong on the lead but generally walks quite well. He knows basic commands such as sit, drop and roll over. He loves treats and would happily undergo further training if there were rewards involved. He has his favourite toys and can be trusted alone inside through the day. There have been no episodes of destruction and very few toileting accidents. Barney is very fit and healthy, up to date with his shots, has beautiful white teeth, perfect weight…all he’s missing really is his own family.

For more information or to meet Barney please phone foster carer Kylie on 0422 084 042 or email oscartilly@hotmail.com. Barney is in foster care in Newcastle, NSW and is available for adoption interstate.

Barney's $400 adoption fee includes his desexing, vaccinations, flea and worm treatments, microchipping, and lifetime registration. You can see all our available dogs at www.dogrescuenewcastle.com.au