Dunkin (Toto)
YIPPEE — I’m not in Kansas anymore! Toto was one of 150 dogs living in a Puppy Mill in Kansas. The authorities seized all of the dogs and placed them in various shelters in the Kansas area. Rescues from all over were notified as to the severity of this problem. Toto is a red & white parti male, approximately two years old. He’s neutered, up-to-date on shots, heartworm negative and on a preventative. Unfortunately, Toto had never been groomed before, and is petrified of the clippers. He was terribly matted and stunk pretty bad. He cooperated when we used scissors to remove his mats. His first bath went well, considering the only time he ever got wet was when we walked him in the rain. He is learning to enjoy being brushed. As with most dogs living in a puppy mill, Toto hasn’t had many life experiences. Little things like grass to roll in and a nice soft pillow are all new to him at this point. He is responding well in his foster home and is trying very hard to trust us. He’s really doing much better than anticipated. He’s pretty good on a flexi lead and is going potty outside. He’s got a lot of puppy in him. Toto likes to dance in his crate when he sees us coming over to play. This is actually excellent news for a mill dog. He’s also discovered the joys of playing with a ball. It will be some time before Toto is ready for adoption, but we felt his story needed to be told. He’s one of the lucky ones. Since “There’s No Place Like Home”….. Toto will be looking for a home that can offer him space, patience, positive re-enforcement, gentle hands and a fenced in backyard. He is already showing he is a gentle soul and will make an excellent companion. It’s a team effort to get this many dogs into a rescue situation. Special thanks go to local rescues for taking on such a large commitment to handle these dogs and coordinate with the shelters; volunteers who have been working diligently to make all the transportation arrangements; and all the other who are donating time and money to help. UPDATE FROM FOSTER MOM: Toto has done remarkably well. He is starting to come out of his shell. He adores the other dogs here and positively loves the kitties. His tail hasn't stopped spinning. He is going outside with the other dogs now, and is running up a storm. Hops and plays and just wants to be part of the gang. Still takes a while for him to warm up to new people, but that's also getting better. Toto is making up for not having much of a puppyhood. He is a pup in a big boy suit. Steals all the toys and just wants to have fun. He also enjoy's laying around with his person or people, but is also exploring a little bit on his own. As you can see from his new picture, he is really settling into the new lifestyle. Toto was fostered by Cocker Angel Linda