The One Where Rachel Finds Her Furever Family! Born May 16 to a semi-feral Husky X mama in Northern Manitoba, Rachel was rescued alongside her siblings by the wonderful folks @manitobaanimalalliance. As the runt of the litter, Rachel is tiny but mighty and sweet as can be! It doesn’t take much to keep this girl happy, and she’s tickled to learn that her new family is waiting to meet her!

Rachel is deep into baby pup life, so things like potty training and teething are all works in progress. Anyone who’s had a puppy knows that those teeth are sharp! Rachel’s fosters are guiding her away from nipping and always make sure she has a chew toy at the ready. She’s been quite gentle with her toys (apart from one casualty) and already seems to know that her teeth don’t belong on things that aren’t hers! With potty training, Rachel is still learning that she needs to save her potty break for the great outdoors, but she’s shown tons of improvement! Since her fosters live in a condo, she’s not always able to hold it long enough to make it outside, so pee pads have been the saving grace. We’re not worried, though! Rachel is a very, very smart girl so we know that practice will definitely make perfect.

Speaking of condo living, we believe Rachel would be better suited to a home with a yard, or access to a green space or dog park. She may be tiny now, but this girl is a Husky X, which means she’ll be a) a sizable lady and b) in need of regular exercise. Right now, Rachel’s routine consists of sleeping, potty breaks, and eating, with short bursts of playtime peppered in. She’s a big fan of her toys, often choosing to play with one on her own. If her fosters are up for a game or tug or fetch, Rachel is always ready to play! Her crate training is going pretty well: she is fine to hang out during the day and sleeps peacefully overnight, but she’s still building up her tolerance to being crated with the door closed. It’s likely because she’d rather be with her fosters – Rachel is a cuddly girl who prefers to be close and/or touching a human at any time – so her adoptive family will be tasked with helping to build her confidence!

When it comes to socialization, Rachel has been hard-pressed to find a dog or human that she doesn’t like! Her first impression is very, um, enthusiastic! Her instinct is to jump up on humans, though she’s learning to relax a little and approach with a calmer energy. Rachel loves meeting new dogs, big or small! With bigger dogs, she’s pretty eager to show off her playful side, often rolling over to show her tummy. Rachel has also had exposure to kids, even allowing a three-year-old to take her on a short, leashed walk (with assistance from an adult, of course!). Given that Rachel is such a quick learner and also a pup, we feel she would be a fantastic family dog (just watch those fingers!).

Rachel is microchipped and up to date with her vaccines. She is currently being treated for Giardia antigen and Coccidia cysts – all associated costs will be covered by MUTTS. Rachel’s adoption fee will include her remaining puppy series shots and spay at six months.

Rachel is eager and ready to meet her new family, and tells us that she wants them to know: “I’ll be there for you, cause you’re there for me too!”

SOCIABILITY: Humans (adults and kids) and dogs; not cat tested
ENERGY: Medium
QUIRKS: Rachel will often sleep completely on her back with her legs up in the air!
TRAINING NEEDS: Basic obedience, continued potty training, leash skills, continued crate training
MEDICAL NEEDS: Currently being treated for Giardia antigen and Coccidia cysts
WEIGHT: 22lbs (and growing!)
FOSTER LOCATION: Toronto