RIO - ESSEX

Rio is a small built shepherd who is neutered and microchipped. He is sadly looking for a new home as his owners are struggling with his behaviour.

This is what the volunteer says:

When I arrived, Rio, as is the norm for him, was isolated in an upstairs bedroom. I didn’t hear him bark or make any noise at all. It should also be noted that at the time of assessment, there was a person fitting a new kitchen.

Before meeting Rio gained a little more background information. His owners brought Rio over from Lithuania at about 5 months old. Whilst there he was hit by a car resulting in a metal plate being inserted in his rear left leg. This doesn’t appear to give any problem. The owners are not scared of Rio just of what he might do to other people when out. The male has 95% control over Rio but his behaviour is totally different when he is not around. A tale of two dogs!

He walks quite well when out, he is fine with the male owner but its a totally different story with the female. He will react to everything, cars bikes people and even dogs. He seems to be in protective mode with her.

Whilst out we heard a couple of other dogs barking in a garden but as Rio couldn’t see them his only reaction was to prick his ears. We walked past people and completed the walk without incident

When at home and with no strangers around, little or no problems are reported. While at work, Rio is left tethered by a 4-meter lead to a post supporting a canopy in the garden. (This is like a conservatory without the walls) He also has a crate in the garden where his bedding is kept. The reason for his tether is that immediate neighbours have small children and they are concerned for the potential of Rio causing injury.

He lives with Lola, a 3-year-old Cocker Spaniel without problems.

As a puppy, Rio had been to classes and a couple of trainers have come to the home up until about a year ago.

Rio doesn't appear to be a nervous dog , he is just over protective of the female owner. This is not helped by her being concerned that he will attack strangers, and as her anxiety raises, Rio’s follows. Whilst we don’t think Rio is a complete lost cause, his rehab will take time, patience, confidence and an understanding of his behaviours and how to deal with them.

If you can offer this boy his forever home please get in touch