Shadow is a 1-2 year old male Anatolian Shepherd. He was found wandering in poor condition and taken to a British pound. No owner came forward to claim it, so after seven days in the pound, it was at risk of being destroyed. We were asked to take him.
Welcoming a dog of this size and nature is a huge responsibility that we take very seriously. Anyone wishing to adopt Shadow MUST have extensive experience with giant breeds. He will need a home strictly for adults only and without animals. Anyone considering hiring him should Google the breed before even picking up the phone and calling us.
Shadow is very typical of his race. He is devoted to his family but will protect them and his home from all “outsiders”. It will need a safe space where it can be moved when visitors arrive. Its size and strength make it difficult for a person of “normal strength” to walk. He will therefore need to be trained to walk with a figure-eight leash as well as with a slippery leash.
With all the complexities of owning such a huge dog having been said……. Shadow is a loyal, affectionate, comical and adorable dog. On his hind legs he stands about 6 feet tall, there is a lot to love about this boy!
When you adopt a Safe Rescue dog, you MUST use a sliding leash. This will keep your dog safe: your new dog will be nervous and not trust you, and you won’t know what situations might upset your dog. If your dog panics, a slip leash is the only way to keep your dog from escaping (many dogs can escape from a collar and/or harness). It will take AT LEAST 3-6 months for your dog to settle in and for you to know him well (longer for nervous dogs). The slip cord should ALWAYS be used during this installation period.
Even once your dog is settled, it is safest to use the leash in situations where your dog may be afraid (e.g. visiting new places, around unfamiliar people, at the veterinarian), and in situations where unexpected triggers may occur (e.g. around a bonfire). night). Nervous dogs may still need to wear a leash as a backup safety measure.
The drawstring is a safety device and should NEVER be used as a training tool. Using the leash to put pressure on the dog’s neck is harmful. If your dog pulls on the leash, we can advise you on training methods that prevent damage.
Once your dog is settled, you may consider using a harness (with the sliding leash) if your dog is comfortable being handled when adjusted. Most harnesses are not waterproof, but harnesses with a strap behind the ribcage (e.g. Ruffwear Webmaster or Perfect Fit Harnesses) are safer.
Retractable/extendable leashes should never be used on our dogs.
Adopted dogs must be picked up from the shelter and transported directly home in a crate.
Fences and gates must be at least 5 feet tall and secure.