"Sophie" is nearly 11 months old now (in this photo she is seven weeks old; I will follow up with current photos after I reload software on my new hard drive tonight or tomorrow). She is now quite heavy (not fat, just "solid) and strong, and she looks like a short-haired German Shepherd/Lab mix (although her legs are a bit shorter, LOL). I rescued Sophie from a tied burlap bag on the back of my neighbor's son. She was being "thrown away," something I just could not tolerate. I already had a dog, but I had decided that she needed a companion, so I was happy to bring Sophie home. Unfortunately, Sophie is now a bit too dominant over my first (smaller) dog, and she has become too much for me to handle. She is stubborn, which I admit is 100% my fault. She loves people, but she can be overwhelming when people come to visit, jumping up and barking (all in a friendly manner). While it breaks my heart, I think I need to find a better environment for Sophie - one that is more structured and allows her more freedom than my small, gated yard. She has never been off-leash outside the gate and has no "street smarts" when it comes to avoiding motorcycles or cars, and that is a big concern for me in a new home. My ideal environment for Sophie is one with a loving person/couple/family that will pay her attention, feed her well, keep up with all health and vaccination needs, and not confine her in a cage or on a one-meter chain (yet keep her safe). She is accustomed to being outdoors (but loves to "sneak inside" at any opportunity, lol) as long as there is some kind of shelter (she will go under my dirty kitchen if it's raining). I think it would be best for her to be a "single dog." Please forgive the lengthy post; it is very hard for me to even put this in writing. She is a good girl; she just needs a more suitable environment. If you or anyone you know might be interested in Miss Sophie, I would love to hear from you. I will also ask her veterinarian to post a notice in his office. All questions are welcome, and thanks for any help you might provide for finding Sophie the best new home.
