Tamara

Please read our dog bios carefully to be sure that the dog you are applying for suits your family and lifestyle. At Pound Dog Rescue, we believe in the benefits of post-adoption training for our dogs and their families. This allows for continued socialization, and learning and helps to create a well-mannered and balanced dog. Post-adoption training is a requirement in our adoption process.                                    

I take great delight in introducing Tammy a 2 1/2 year old, 6.6 pound Maltese. Tammy came into our care from a puppy mill where she was bred for profit. Her hair had been closely shaved before we received her. What hair she does have is silky soft and white except for her ears which are a very pale beige. Because it’s been so cold I have put Tammy into a sweater until her hair grows longer. Tammy has made amazing progress adapting to life in a home and this makes it quite clear that she is ready to find her furever home.

When Tammy first entered my home she tentatively explored her surroundings. She was, as expected very skittish at sudden movements or unfamiliar noises. She still leaves the room when the vacuum or robot vacuum in used. Tammy quickly got used to my talking to my Google home system and timers and alarms. She is a highly curious young lady and very alert. Amazingly Tammy ate some kibble in the kitchen within her first hour with me. Later she cuddled in my lap wrapped in a soft blanket and semi slept for almost 2 hours. At first she shivered for about a minute and then settled in quietly.

Tammy was reluctant to drink water and at her spay a few days after coming to me that we discovered she had a very serious uterine infection called a pyometra. This has been cured with her spay and a series of antibiotics. Now we got down to toilet training in earnest. I took Tammy outdoors on my deck every 3 hours. Since her surgery she has only had 2 poop accidents in the house and one was my fault in not reading her signs. She has learned to alert me when she needs to go out. Tammy holds overnight easily for 8 hours and has done so from the beginning.

Because of the severe cold weather and heavy snow Tammy’s outdoor excursions were kept to my covered deck for the first week or so. At first the sliding patio door frightened her and she needed to be carried across the threshold. Within a few days Tammy was entering and exiting without assistance. The same behaviour occurred when we went out the front door to walk off property but by the 4th try she independently went through the doors. Tammy easily managed the 2 steps down to ground level.

Tammy eagerly looks forward to her walks outdoors and we now go for 20 minutes or so 2 or 3 times a day as well as a couple of short bathroom breaks. Tammy walks very well on lead but will occasionally cross in front of me. She just needs more practice. The world outside the mill where she was kept is all very new and sometimes frightening.

I have invited several neighbours over one at a time and although Tammy hung back initially when they came inside, when I wrapped her in a blanket and put them in their lap she settled and when put down stayed in the room. She has steadily gained confidence and lately when someone enters the house she will bark as if to say this is my place and you’re intruding. She then settles and accepts their presence but usually goes to her bed to observe them.

Tammy started taking an interest in toys after a few days. Initially she would hoard them on a blanket or one of her beds. She would come to investigate when I squeaked one of her toys. One day Tammy dropped her favourite soft toy at my feet and when I tossed it a few feet away she trotted over and brought it back and dropped it at my feet. We continued this for several times. She had taught me how to play fetch which we now do once or twice a day. She now plays with and chews on her toys independently. Tammy also instigated her favourite game of chase with me. When she wants me to play she has an adorable little squeaky noise she makes to let me know its playtime. She loves being chased around the living room coffee table and when she’s had enough she jumps on her nearby bed inviting me to lie down with her and give her body rubs and cuddles.

Tammy is an extremely affectionate girl. When I lie on the floor to do my yoga practice I’m fair game for her to sniff, lick and rub herself against me. If I sit up on the floor Tammy will rub up against my back-my own personal back massager. She now jumps on her hind legs and almost does a dance to let me know she wants me to pick her up and wrap her up in a blanket and cuddle. Some evenings Tammy chooses to curl up on her bed nearby me rather than be cuddled. She’s becoming more independent. Be aware those huge eyes and sweet nature could make you Tammy’s play/cuddle slave.

Tammy discovered the fun and sensation of rubbing herself against my winter patio furniture coverings. She now loves to rub against furniture or me. Body rubs are a must for this girl. Lately she seems to enjoy butt rubs and when I’m lying down with her she’ll often stick her butt in my face and expect a thorough rubbing.

Tammy still doesn’t drink readily from a bowl although I did catch her yesterday taking a quick sip. I give her kibble mixed with water twice a day and have resorted to crushed ice cubes in between meals. I tried putting ice cubes into her water dish and she proceeded to take them out one at a time and deposit them on a nearby rug. This will continue to be a learning practice for her.

A few days ago I took Tammy over to my neighbour who has a cat to see how she’d react. Tucker is a large very furry cat who outweighs her by about 10 pounds. This little sweetheart showed no fear and went nose to nose and followed Tucker around the house for almost an hour. I have introduced her to a few smaller dogs with no issues. Tammy is friendly and curious when meeting new animals.

Because Tammy is so small she would not be suitable in a home with small children. Teens would be fine as long as they are quieter and understand that she is nervous of loud noises and quick movements. She rarely makes noise and would be fine in an apartment, condo or house as long as she has access to the outdoors several times a day. Tammy is crate trained and I have been able to extend her time to 2 ½ hours. She hasn’t displayed separation issues but is always eager to get out of her crate and be with me. Because of her affectionate nature Tammy would not do well if left alone for long periods of time. She loves being around her human and craves their affection and attention.

Tammy has been fascinated with her reflection in the sliding patio door and will just stare for a minute or so every time we go out on the deck. Whenever I put on my jacket, Tammy immediately goes to where I keep her jacket and leash and waits patiently for me to get her ready. Tammy constantly surprises me with the great strides she’s made.

Tammy makes me laugh daily with her antics. She is so ready for her next adventure-her furever home. Tammy has gained so much confidence in her short time with me. With continued patience, care and guidance Tammy will make an amazing family member. If you’re looking for a bright, affectionate little dog who loves going for walks and the outdoors and who adores cuddling in front of the tv at night, please consider Tammy.