ADOPTED!

Meet Blackie! He is a two or three-year-old black male Labrador Retriever. He is as sweet as he is handsome, with an outstanding temperament. Blackie is a larger boy, at 82 lbs. He gets along wonderfully with his two lab foster brothers. Blackie came from Ventura County Animal Shelter, and thus we have little knowledge of Blackie’s background or upbringing, other than he was a stray, who no one came to claim.

Blackie’s foster family has been working on a few issues. It is crucial that his new “furever” family know and understand these issues and be willing to work with him to overcome them, so he does not end up homeless ever again.  Blackie is athletic and can scale a 6-foot tall block wall or fence reasonably quickly. Therefore, he should NEVER be left in the backyard alone, especially during his transition into his new home. Homes with wrought iron fencing would help Blackie remain safe and confined when he is outdoors.

Blackie is genuinely an inside boy who loves to be lying at your feet while you work, watch TV, cook or do laundry. He is a beautiful companion.  While he is housebroken, Blackie has had some “new home” accidents but continues to improve. While he gets acclimated, his new family needs to learn his signals and his routine.

Blackie seems to have been obedience trained. He comes immediately, every time he is called. Blackie sits, stays, and will wait. However, Blackie surfs kitchen counters. Again, this will take time and patience to correct (and maybe some help from a trainer). Never leave any items on counters that could entice him. Besides food, medicine, candy is harmful and deadly to a dog.

It is HIGHLY advised that when leaving Blackie at home alone, he be crated. With a few little treats, Blackie can easily be enticed into the crate, where he will lay quietly, even if you are in the house or until you return to let him out. He also goes in quickly and quietly with a few treats at night.

Blackie loves to be petted and hugged. He will follow you in the house or yard wherever you go. Blackie loves human interaction and attention. He enjoys playing a good game of ball with you. He travels nicely in the car and walks well on a leash.

Blackie needs a home where someone is home during the day. Crating him for a couple of hours to run errands or to go out in the evening would be sufficient (even good for him) but not every day for extended periods. His energy level is low keyed, so he doesn’t require running or jogging. A backyard big enough to play ball will suffice. He would be delighted doing once or twice a day. He also needs a home where he will not be kept outside unsupervised.

Blackie needs a family with patience and a willingness to provide the necessary training to alleviate his unwanted behaviors. Blackie’s main joy in life comes from being with his people. This boy has so much love to give. He will melt your heart and fill your home with happiness!

Blackie is neutered, up to date on his shots, and microchipped.