This morning the activities director of one of our local nursing homes called me to say that their resident dog had been put down and they would like me to help them find another. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" /> This is one of those "lots of hard work few rewards" things.

Anyway, the last dog was of course perfect. Some sort of large lab(?) cross. People friendly but independant not enthusiastic or needy. Reliable (could be let out and trusted not to wander away). And had little or no active prey drive or guarding instinct. He had very solid nerves--ambulances, emergency people, children, erratic behavior nothing seemed to phase him. Of course they want another dog just like him. And of course their budget doesn't allow for spending much money.

This would have to be an older dog (preferably about 4 years of age) and fairly large. Medium size dogs are hard for bedridden people to see and small dogs are often tripped over...

I'm interested in any suggestions or ideas for various breed rescue groups in the new england area. Any suggestions on breed would be interesting as well. I'm thinking along the lines of an older golden (not field lines) or maybe a really LOW drive older GSD, but hip problems are a worry.

I'm not planning on plunking the dog and leaving, I'll be their to help with any problems...but the fewer the better.

Thanks

Molly,

Ever thought about a standard (or giant) poodle? When I worked for a vet, I met several large poodles (don't know if the correct term is standard or giant?) that were calm, good nerved, didn't hardly shed a thing, lovable dogs. Good protectors when that time arose.

I bet if you look at rescues, there is bound to be some large ones available...however, I guess that might have some drawbacks.

The ones I met were awful quiet too.

Just a suggestion. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Standard poodles are great dogs- but their coat care equals $ and quite a bit of it.

I am in a couple of shelters a week here and can keep my eyes open. I am in Maine- where is this nursing home?

Hi Deanna:

I'm sending you my contact info by PM.
Thanks.

Erica, I appreciate the input.

Well, if you'd be willing to put up with a lot of hair, I'd definately reccommend the Newfoundland.

They pretty much fit the bill - lower energy level, steady temperament, sweet but NOT needy, big...they don't even eat that much...my newf (now my parents dog) eats only about 4 cups a day now, she's 3. That's about the same as my shepherds.

If you're interested, you can PM me and I can give you the contact info of a breeder in PA...she has some awesome show dogs but she's also involved in rescue, maybe she can put you in touch with someone in your area.

I must admit I would go for a Golden. I am working with one right now and she is GREAT. I also work in a nursing home and unfortunatly we have a resident dog. Shitzu to be exact not impressive by any means. Sometimes if you ask around to different breeders or rescue groups they will donate a dog for this type of service. Poodles do make excellent threapy dogs but it's the coat maintenece that can be a problem. Keep us posted I would love to hear what you find or come up with.