PETER

PETER

Senior · Pit Bull Terrier (medium coat)

Medium · Medium coat

About

Peter was a bit underweight and nervous when he first came to TJO but after a good night's sleep and a few days of regular, nutritious meals, he was feeling a little better and a little braver. Since being in foster, Peter is at a perfect weight, and during his time in the shelter he made friends with staff and volunteers and quickly became a shelter favorite. OTHER PETS: Peter is mostly disinterested in other dogs but when uncomfortable will get irritated across the barrier with another dog. He would do well as an only pet. [Only Pet] OWNER EXPERIENCE: [First Dog] Experience with positive reinforcement or willingness to learn. Peter is pretty easy-going and enjoys the company of a human friend, some playtime, and opportunities to rest on a soft bed. Peter does not love giving up his toys, so to help him feel confident, trading up (with another toy or high value treat) is a a safer way to remove toys and will help him worry less about losing high value items. Since Peter has been in foster, we've learned that he prefers company during the day whenever possible, and needs more frequent outings to help is aging bladder. KIDS: Peter has been uncomfortable with some handling but tolerant of it, he does solicit physical interaction but arthritis makes him sore. He can be a little grabby with toys, unintentionally brushing teeth against fingers or knuckles when giving/taking toys; Peter would not be a good fit for younger children and should meet everyone he would be living with prior to adoption. Minors should always be actively supervised. [13+ (Must Meet First)] ACTIVITY LEVEL: Peter still enjoys being active but too much walking could aggravate his arthritis; he enjoys playing with humans and toys, sometimes getting grabby with toys and fixating on them occasionally. Peter would do well with a variety of mental enrichment activities - a combination of physical activity and mental stimulation will help meet his needs and keep him young; you can also speak with your vet about diet and exercise/physical therapy referals. [Good Yoga Buddy] VETERINARY CARE: Peter will need a good relationship with a vet to ensure his arthritis and seasonal allergies are optimally managed and he is able to remain active well into old age. [Above Average] LEVEL OF TRAINING NEEDED: Positive reinforcement training will help Peter bond with his new owner, build self-confidence, and new skills and fun tricks. Positive reinforcement is a great way to keep his mind engaged and active to fully meet his needs. [Minimal] GROOMING: [Minimal]

Shelter

Thomas J. O'Connor Animal Control and Adoption Center

Springfield, MA

(413) 781-1484
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