Lens And Leash: Who is this adoption story about?
Kelly Neubauer: This is about Bob, a 14-15 year old chihuahua that I adopted in August 2016.
Lens And Leash: What made you decide to adopt?
Kelly Neubauer: I had fostered Bob for about 2 hours, Rebecca Tinnes, aka Cupcake had Bob’s lifelong chi bro, Timmy in her care. I suggested that these 2 were not adoptable due to health concerns and we should keep them in hospice care. She kept Timmy, and I kept Bob.
Lens And Leash: When and where did you adopt Bob?
Kelly Neubauer: Bob was moved into the neighborhood August of 2016 from Pintler Pets, a rescue in Montana. Cupcake and Pam Boyer from Trail Creek Pet Center in Victor, Idaho will bring at risk dogs into their care when they have space. Bob and Timmy were lucky enough to catch a ride.
Lens And Leash: How old was Bob when you adopted him and do you know anything about his life before you adopted him?
Kelly Neubauer: Bob grew up in Missouri. We know that he was with Timmy and a cat there. The dad moved to Missoula, Montana and couldn’t secure a place to live for his pets and himself. Bob and Timmy ended up being an owner surrender and picked up by Pintler Pets. Both had had vet care. Other than that, Bob is a chi of mystery. We think Bob was 13 when he moved to Jackson. Both boys had grave health issues. Timmy passed a few months ago with his mom holding him. He had many months of life because of his excellent care. Bob has allergies, a grade 4 heart murmur, limited sight and is deaf. He is Amazing!
Lens And Leash: What made you decide to adopt Bob specifically?
Kelly Neubauer: I am a foster mom for AAC (Animal Adoption Center) in Jackson, WY and for my friend Cupcake. Bob is what is called in the rescue world a “foster fail.” I was not looking for another dog when Bob appeared. But this funny looking deaf, sight impaired, feeble, itchy, elder moved in and I kept him. He really is so easy and entertaining. Under the care of Dr. Joe, Dr. Heather, and my neighbor, Dr. Christie, we got his skin issues under control, removed many teeth, his nails are better – he can walk 1/2 mile before he needs an assist. Honestly, Bob sort of chose us.
Lens And Leash: What is your favorite quirk about Bob?
Kelly Neubauer: Bob has a zillion quirks, but the chi quirk that is common is their need to burrow. I have not spent a night away from him or his insistance on being under a cover of some type, next to you. He is very social, and will totally diss me if he’s around new people. He’s like a Welcome Wagon even in someone else’s home. His whole body wags, and moves in on his new friends like a heat seeking missile. Bob has taken a few long car trips with me, and he couldn’t be more gracious! His superpower seems to be in fostering other animals. He has never had an issue with cats or new dogs, he’s quite the lover. He also loves to wear clothes. I had to get a sun shirt for him to prevent sunburns. He’s white and mostly hairless.
Lens And Leash: Did you have to do any training with him after you adopted him?
Kelly Neubauer: The training with Bob has been minimal. He’s completely potty trained and will use a pee pad if needed. I have large crates, if I need to he sleeps in one until I come home. He meets dogs well and was leash trained.
Lens And Leash: What tips or pieces of advice would you offer to people that are looking to adopt for the first time?
Kelly Neubauer: First time dog owners, research research research the breed. Talk to trainers, spend time with people who have dogs, try fostering first. I am a shepherd person primarily, but I fell in love with a little Shar Pei (Peppermint Patty) mix last Christmas. I am now a Pei foster for Pei People as a direct result of my adoration for Peppermint Patty. I was able to confidently get a genetically compromised Shar Pei into a rescue and a most wonderful home with people who are dedicated to this breed. Your lifestyle needs to be considered. If you like dogs and are traveling then foster or go volunteer at the shelters. The dogs need exercise and socialization. You are never stuck with a dog. Usually, the shelter has a trial period. It’s a commitment. When I travel I board my boys. There are vet bills, and hopefully training costs.
Lens And Leash: Would you adopt again and would you adopt from the same shelter/rescue?
Kelly Neubauer: Without a doubt adoption, foster fail will always be in my world and Pintler Pets is a rescue that I would encourage people to visit online or in person. They are not as well funded, and try very hard to give all their animals a life they deserve.
I love all the adoption stories. I cry a lot while reading them!!!