Paddy (D1500)

Mixed Breed.

Paddy D1500 is SAFE Karratha’s longest term foster dog. \ He has been in care for over 2 years, originally given to SAFE by the Rangers in Paraburdoo. At the time of this profile, SAFE tag numbers are up to D2108 which means 608 dogs have come in for rehoming since Paddy’s arrival. He was flown from Paraburdoo to Perth for desexing, and then to Karratha where he has been ever since.

We always knew Paddy was a little “different” but for us that made him a bit special. At SAFE we know the dogs and cats who are in care the longest always go to the best homes of people who have been ”chosen” to be their humans. We have no doubt that there is one of those homes awaiting Paddys arrival.

Paddy prances rather than walks, and he has an involuntary jaw movement that could be mistaken as aggression (snapping) until you get to know him. He doesn’t have a mean bone in his body, and has come off 2nd best when his foster buddy had a go at him. SAFE doesn’t have the finances to do testing on Paddy nor do we believe it’s necessary. His appears to be a neurological issue, and spending time with Paddy would be comparable in our human world of interacting with someone with cerebal palsy. Paddy needs the company of another dog and preferably a gentle, non-dominating one. He has issues with toileting and isn’t always able to reach the appropriate grassed area, so the patio can come off worse sometimes.

Paddy is a playful, cheeky boy who loves being where you are! He enjoys playing in the backyard with you and is also good on a lead, so enjoys going for runs. He is a little funny with his head or chest being touched, but generally has a beautiful nature and has come a long way since being with his current foster family. He now trusts his foster carer to touch his head and give him big lovable smooches! Because of his suspected abuse he is still dealing with anxiety issues. Sometimes if he can’t see where you are, or when you leave the house, he may bark or whine. With continued training from his foster family he is getting better and more trusting towards humans with this, and once he trusts you he’s a very faithful dog! Paddy isn’t currently house trained (he actually prefers to be outside), but is a very trainable dog.

Paddy is getting along well with his feline foster siblings, he’s very eager to play with them but never chases. He gets along well with other dogs too and if growled or barked at, Paddy will very quickly submit or hide behind you. He’s ok with kids, although younger ones are best supervised around him as he may knock them over accidentally when he gets excited.

Paddy travels well in the car and doesn’t dig holes in the backyard either. \ He has been in foster care for far too long now and is ready to be adopted to a family who can commit to continuing on with his special needs so he can eventually trust all humans and feel safe in his home environment. He would make the perfect addition to your home, especially as a companion dog!
When we quizzed his foster carers on whether it would be kinder to “let him go” there has always been a chorus of “NO WAY"! They all love this endearing fellow. He can be fearful of people at first, but once trust is gained he is right there beside you for up close and personal time on the couch. Please keep Paddy in your thoughts for that extra special person who wants an extra special dog.