Rounding out our northern adoptables is Mary Kate! Mary Kate is an eight month old Border Collie Lab X from a remote community in northern Manitoba. She was surrendered to a clinic alongside her twin sister Ashley, covered in ticks. Like her sister, Mary Kate is on the shy side but once you get to know her, she’s a bundle of fun! MK is equal parts sweet and adventurous – it’s time for her to meet her family!

New situations are a little overwhelming for Mary Kate, but thankfully she has her secret confidence-building tool by her side: her foster brother, Chikoo! It took MK three days to warm up to Chikoo but now she loves him to bits and plays with him all day. MK definitely considers Chikoo to be her North Star, showing her how to interact with new dogs or strangers when she’s unsure. Though she’s still cautious upon first introductions, she warms up very quickly (treats help!) and definitely appreciates Chikoo’s moral support!

Another way that Chikoo helps out with MK is during playtime! MK is a high-energy girl (puppy energy + Border Collie) who is easily bored and wants to play all the time! When her foster brother needs a break, Mary Kate can be found chewing her toys or playing with a ball and is really good at keeping herself entertained. She would do very well in a home with another dog! If she’s a solo pet, her adoptive family must be prepared to provide her with sufficient exercise and mental stimulation. Right now, Mary Kate goes on three walks per day. She loves hiking and camping (good ol’ Canadian summer activities!) and is great in the car, so a family who enjoys a variety of activity and adventures would be the perfect fit for our girl!

Like her sister, MK is a total smarty pants. She’s very food motivated, which has been a big help in her obedience training. Her leash skills require some work, but nothing out of the ordinary! She is a puller, especially when excited. The only time she exhibits any prey drive is when she’s playing with Chikoo – otherwise, Mary Kate works hard to remain on her best behaviour!

At home, Mary Kate loves to stick close to her fosters. She’s a classic shadow pup, needing to know where her family is at all times. This resulted in some not-so-fun separation anxiety. Now that she’s comfortable in her foster home, her separation anxiety has tapered off and she now heads into her crate easily, doesn’t whine, and can hang for one to two hours alone while her fosters run errands (and overnight to sleep!). MK is always thrilled when they return, and can’t help but trade pets for kisses – she is a big believer in reciprocal love!

Mary Kate is 100% potty trained, spayed, microchipped and up to date with her vaccines. She is currently being treated for Giardia and hookworm. All associated costs will be covered by MUTTS.

MK is ready to enjoy some summer fun with her new family! Hikers, campers, and adventure-seekers: this sweet girl is the pup for you!

SOCIABILITY: Humans (adults; not kid tested) and dogs; not cat tested
ENERGY: High (puppy energy!)
QUIRKS: Her butt wiggles, endless kisses and her knack for hiding under the couch!
TRAINING NEEDS: Continued basic obedience, leash skills, separation anxiety, continued socialization
MEDICAL NEEDS: Currently being treated for Giardia and hookworm
WEIGHT: 28lbs
FOSTER LOCATION: Brampton