Sharky

Hi everyone,

We are a not-for-profit organisation that operates the NSW Central Coast Council Dog and Cat Impound Facility. Our primary appointment is to impound dogs and cats found stray within the local area and attempt to reunite them with their owners. At times, this reunion is not possible and therefore we house our animals until we can adopt them out to suitable homes.

For several months we have been the home to a 9-year-old Staffy cross named Sharky. Through and through, this little trooper is a great and loyal dog. Knowing his basic commands -sit, shake, stay, recall- he has shown to be a canine that loves attention, loves a bit of play, and only wants to be by his handler’s side. There are certain dogs who would love nothing more than to be in the front seat while road tripping, on the lounge when at home, and exploring when out and about.; this is Sharky. If there is a dog who wants to be by your side, this is him.

Knowing the type of dog that Sharky is and his behaviour, I am overly seeking a home where Sharky would be an only animal with an individual who is confident and firm yet caring and attentive to this little guy. The types of situations that have sprung to my mind are those including ADF veterans who need a loyal, loveable companion, or those like Tradies and interstate truck drivers who usually find themselves alone on the open road and could do with a great travelling buddy.

When it comes to walking, despite the point mentioned below, Sharky has shown to be able to walk off-lead and stay relatively close to his handler. He can get along with other dogs while out and about if they are all introduced with ease and patience. Unfortunately, Sharky’s only real challenge is that, at times, he loves to play tug-o-war with his lead, whether it is fabric or metal, whether it is on a collar or harness, and it can take several solid minutes to get him to release it. Having used treats, toys, etc, to get him to let go has sometimes proved unsuccessful, however, a firm, strong, disciplinary, individual can usually exert enough authority over him to command this.

With the above point taken into account, Sharky does not intend to be aggressive while tugging on his lead. He is easily seen as being playful…only on his own terms. That being said, he would not be suited to a home with littler children as their little fingers and hands may get in the way when he attempts to bite his lead or toys.

I have attached a photo of Sharky. I ask you with all sincerity that if you may know someone who could benefit from an overly loyal companion like Sharky to please have them contact us to discuss further and get him into a great home.

We are offering Sharky free to a good home with the following:

• Desexed
• Microchipped
• Lifetime registration in NSW
• First vaccination

I thank you for your time and assistance. Please feel free to contact me on 02 4350 3184.