Puppy Louie (On Trial 8/3/14)

Louie is a sweet, 6 month old, male, Maltese x Silky Terrier. He is a happy little boy, often wagging his tail in excitement when he sees you. Louie loves the company of other small friendly dogs. He is very timid and needs a patient home who will be willing to work with him to ensure he becomes a well adjusted family member. As he is only a puppy, he will be able to learn to trust and accept people while he is still young. He would suit a home where people are home most of the time and if there are children, they should be over 12, as the little ones are a bit scary. Louie will only be adopted to a home with another friendly dog to help him build confidence .

Louie was rescued from a pound along with his mother, Freya, who is also available for adoption, and his sister who has been adopted. Louie has become great buddies with his foster brother Pipey and they are available for adoption together or separately. Louie is enjoying learning to how to play with soft toys. He currently sleeps on my bed but also has a crate that he puts himself to bed in happily. Louie is learning to be an inside dog who goes outside to the toilet and to sleep inside. This would need to continue when he is adopted.

There are many things that are a new experience for Louie - baths, grooming, household noises. He is now wearing a collar and has started walking on a leash. He is good to walk in quiet areas such as parks, ovals etc but is not yet confident near roads or traffic.

Louie is learning to trust people although at the moment he lacks the confidence to run up to you. He likes to have his personal space bubble and he stays about a metre away. He does a funny little tap dance from here, while wagging his tail. He does however try to get close and will build this level of confidence over time. During his time in foster care he has improved greatly with his interaction with people and animals and he loves to sit on your lap and receive attention or just be around people.

Louie has started toilet training and can wait till morning to go outside if his sleep isn't disturbed. Unfortunately though, Louie has a nervous wee when he is picked up. This should stop given time and reassurance.

Louie has a gorgeous grey and white coat that will need bathing about every 2 - 3 weeks. As his coat is non- shedding he will need clipping about every 6-8 weeks.

Louie was received into care with his mum and sister in a very neglected state. There have been many first experiences for him in a home environment. He is progressing very well and just needs a loving, patient environment to settle into. All the patience, love and attention you have for him will not be wasted as he will become a loyal, loving companion.

For more information or to meet Louie please phone foster carer Michelle on 0423 266 911 or email tomchillisparkle5599@gmail.com. Louie is in foster care in Medowie, NSW (25 minutes of Newcastle) and is available for adoption interstate.

Louie's $500 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