Beau gets crate trained!

Now that the cone of shame is finally off, we decided to start crate-training Beau. Previously, we've been keeping him in the backyard whenever we couldn't supervise him, but it's just getting too hot to continue doing that. He's taking to it surprisingly well. I wouldn't go so far as to say he LIKES it, but he's definitely tolerating it.

I started by creating a trail of dog treats from the outside of the crate to the very back of the crate, letting him slowly walk into the crate. Then while he was distracted by treats, I closed the door and slowly backed away, giving him treats whenever he express discomfort. Within 15 minutes, he had gotten the hang of things and was lying down quietly in the crate. Then my sweet fiancee went and bought him a Nyla bone and Kong to entertain him in the crate, which he LOVES. This is the kind of pup who is sometimes too smart for his own good, so finding ways to keep him stimulated and engaged is a must.

But look how cute he is in his crate! He's currently taking a nap while we watch the History channel, so I think  that's a good sign. We'll work on keeping him in the crate for a little longer each day until he starts going to it automatically. My own dog loves this crate and will go into it herself when she wants some peace and quiet. And so far, it seems to be keeping Beau peaceful and quiet! =)

Meet Beau!

Beau started off with a sad story that is working its way towards a happy ending. We found Beau half-paralyzed in the middle of I-35 on Easter weekend. He had obviously been hit by a car and was pretty badly beaten up. But his wounds are healing up nicely now, he's gaining full recovery of his injured front leg, and he couldn't be a happier, more affectionate dog. Now the next step is to find him the perfect home!

He's an energetic, red-gold Australian shepherd who is eager to please and has great potential to be an amazing, intelligent dog. Because of his high-energy and young age (around 2-3 years), he needs an experienced owner who can spend the time, energy and dedication to effectively train him. Since he was previously a stray, he is overcoming separation anxiety issues -- mainly, spazzing out when you return home. But he hasn't destroyed anything yet and can be left alone without too much concern. He does calm down within 10 minutes and can lay at your feet calmly for as long as you're relaxed, but he also gets riled up fairly easily. What can I say -- he's an Australian Shepherd!

He'd do best in a home with other dogs and a decent-sized backyard to run around in. He's great both on and off leash and seems to love being outdoors best of all. He's definitely not a dog who can spend lots of time alone - he needs obedience training and an owner who will love taking him to parks and going on frequent runs. He is such a sweetie -- all he wants to do is be cuddled by you and stare into your eyes. And he's super smart, too. I taught him how to sit and lie down in 15 minutes! With consistency and dedication, he'll be a very easy dog to train.

Beau's received his distemper, bordatella, rabies vaccines, as well as dewormer, flea medication and heartworm prevention (and a "negative" heartworm test). He's been neutered and microchipped, as well. I am asking a $75 adoption fee to help offset a portion of the costs I've spent getting him healthy. Believe me, this is a STEAL for a ready-to-go dog.

Please send me an email if you're interested in meeting with Beau. He's a beautiful, sweet, intelligent boy who just needs a bit of guidance to make him the PERFECT dog.