River (MI)

Rat Terrier | Forest Hills, MI

YoungMaleSmallTricolor (Tan/Brown & Black & White)

About

Meet River (MI)

River was dumped into a neighbor's yard when his original owners were moving and didn't want him anymore. Why? That's anyone's guess because this 1-year-old rat terrier is as sweet and smart as he is handsome!  River then landed in an animal shelter, where he had the good fortune of being rescued by New Rattitude.   River is a typical rattie in the "teenage" phase--not quite a puppy, but not yet an adult either--although at 14 lbs., he has completed most of his physical growth. Like human teenagers, he has the energy and motivation to do more--more exploration, more play, and more interaction. River's energy can be diffused with LOTS of exercise; doing "rattie runs" within a fenced yard several times a day helps to tucker him out. When the weather doesn't cooperate, he can be kept busy with something nice to chew, toys, and scent puzzles.   River is mostly house-trained and asks to go out by putting his paws up on the door. He sleeps quietly in a crate at night but would probably prefer to sleep in bed with his favorite human(s). He loves walks; car rides are okay, especially if they result in a walk!   There are no other dogs, cats, or children in River's foster home. However, he had a playdate with other dogs his size and did well after initial introductions. See a video of the playdate and other photos of River in his online photo album at  https://imageevent.com/newrattitude/river . He also met a dog-savvy cat indoors and ignored it, but when he sees a cat while on leash, he tries to chase it. River allowed two little girls he met on a walk to pet him and didn't show any concern. However, he is still "mouthy," wanting to bite at hands and feet as part of his play, so he would probably do better with older children.   Adopt River and you'll get the benefit of an almost grown-up, nearly-trained dog with so much potential, while experiencing the joy and exuberance of a puppy! He's the complete package!  

Adoption Process
application, personal references check, vet reference check, telephone interview, home visit, temperament match, adoption contract and adoption fee.