Rigby, STAR #2127

💙 Meet Rigby – From Scared Shelter Boy to Champion Fetch Partner!

Hi! My name is Rigby, but my foster mom calls me Rigs. I’m a 3-year-old, Australian Shepherd on the smaller side (shy of 35lbs) with a gorgeous blue merle coat, one striking blue eye, and a heart that’s ready for a fresh start.

Just a few weeks ago, life looked very different for me. When my foster mom picked me up from the shelter, I was painfully thin and frightened of just about everything. She thinks someone wasn’t very kind to me because I would cower and whimper whenever anyone touched me. But guess what? That’s not me anymore.

Today, I love attention, enjoy being petted, and spend my days playing with my foster brothers and sisters. Every day I become a little more confident and discover what it’s like to simply be a happy dog. Life can be good and I’m ready for it!

My absolute favorite game is fetching a ball or toy. I can even catch a ball right out of the air, and my foster mom says I’d probably make an awesome Frisbee or agility dog.

I’ve worked hard on my manners, too! I’m crate trained, house trained, know commands like sit and come, and walk nicely on a leash.

Because of my past, I need a secure fenced yard and a family that understands I may try to explore or find an escape route during my first few days while I’m settling in. Once I know I’m safe, I relax and become much more comfortable.

I’m selective about my dog friends, so slow, controlled introductions on leash are important. Dog parks aren’t my thing as they’re simply too overwhelming for me. When I feel trapped or anxious around unfamiliar dogs, I may bark, yelp, or rush toward them out of fear. My foster mom knows that helping me meet new dogs calmly and gradually sets me up for success.

I also appreciate enjoying my meals, treats, and favorite chew bones in my crate. Earlier in my recovery, I sometimes guarded high-value items because I had been so hungry for so long. As I’ve gained weight and learned that food is always coming, this behavior has continued to improve. I’ve never shown any guarding toward people when they handle my food or toys.

Cats? So far, I don’t seem to mind my foster mom’s cat, although slow introductions and supervision are always a good idea.

I’m also a little shy when meeting new people, but if you’ll let me come to you at my own pace, I’ll soon discover you’re a friend. Once I trust you, I’m incredibly affectionate and loyal.

While my foster mom is away during the day, I relax quietly in my crate with puzzle toys and chew bones to keep me entertained. At night, I usually sleep on the floor beside her bed, although every now and then I sneak up for a few snuggles. The longer I’ve been in foster care, the more my playful, loving Aussie personality has blossomed.

I’d love a home where I can be someone’s special companion. Because I naturally like to herd, I’d do best in an adult-only home or one with older, dog-savvy children who understand my instincts.

If you’re looking for a loyal shadow, an enthusiastic hiking buddy, a champion fetch partner, and a dog who will love you with his whole heart, I just might be your perfect match.

I’ve overcome so much already, and now all that’s missing is a family to call my own.

Could that be you?

Please complete an application to be considered as an adopter, learn more about and meet him.

https://www.southtexasaussierescue.org/adopt/

IMPORTANT: We do not deliver dogs to adopters. You must be able and willing to come meet the dog in their foster home. A home visit by one of our STAR volunteers is a required part of our adoption program. Adoptions outside of Texas are rare because of these requirements. You must have a secure fence in place, and we are not fans of apartments for this breed, nor homes where the dogs will be home alone 8+ hours daily. All STAR dogs are adopted to be inside pets and family members only and all current or past pets in the home must have proof of being kept up to date on vaccinations and Heartworm prevention. The adoption fee is $300 and trust us, we spend that or much more on dogs to get them vetted – all STAR dogs will be neutered/spayed, up to date on vaccinations, microchipped, heartworm negative, and on monthly heartworm prevention. If you already have an application on file with us, you can contact us to let us know you are interested.

Rigby is a precious 3-year old blue merle male and weighs approximately 30 pounds.  Better days are ahead for this timid and emaciated boy who was sitting at a Houston area shelter.  He will get all the love and attention needed in his new foster home.  Rigby should be ready for adoption mid July.  If this is your dog, be prepared to show proof of ownership and reimburse STAR for all expenses to date.