Atlas: ~3 Year Old Male Yellow Lab x Golden Retriever, Neutered, 65 Pounds
Background: Atlas was rescued by a friend of Atlas' former owner who was unable to give him the attention he needed. Atlas was basically a backyard dog with very minimal training and socialization. He was raised with children, 6 and 9 years of age, in his former home.
What Foster Says: Atlas is a ~3-year-old Lab/Golden Retriever; his father was a black Lab and his mother a Golden Retriever. He is crate-trained, likes the water, is energetic, smart, and knows basic commands like sit, shake, lay down. Atlas would benefit from continued practice with leash walking, as he has had limited opportunities for regular walks. He would do best in a home that can provide consistent exercise, structure, and companionship. Atlas is eager to learn and has great potential to thrive with a committed owner.
We are committed to ensuring Atlas is placed in a responsible loving, forever home. Atlas was given to me by a friend, who was not able to give him the time, attention or love he deserves. I have numerous rescues at home, and therefore cannot keep him, but want him to live a wonderful life. Atlas will be a great addition to the right family and is a happy sweet soul.
What Rescue Rep Says: One of our volunteers went out to meet/evaluate Atlas and found a nice dog that knows sit, stay, down, wait, and high five. He needs help with heeling and responds well to direction. I brought my female Lab to meet Atlas, and while his initial greeting was appropriate, when my dog got closer to his foster parent, Atlas began leaning closer to her and lifted his upper lip at my dog; he looked to be a little protective of the foster.
His protective behavior around his foster appears manageable with proper and structured introductions. He is very food motivated and took treats gently from my hand. Atlas is reported to sleep in a crate at night and can be left alone for up to four hours without any issues. Overall, Atlas appears to be an intelligent dog.
Atlas will not be a good fit for a first time dog family without any dog experience. Atlas was owned by a mutual friend of the foster's and was neglected in terms of attention, exercise, and socialization. He was a backyard dog and they were harsh and impatient with him. They would use intimidation tactics rather than spending time to train him. Because of this and understandably, Atlas can be slow to warm up to new people and situations. He's done incredibly well, with time, attending our pet fairs every few months.
He's a sensitive guy with a heart of gold waiting for the right family. While the world can feel a bit overwhelming for him at times, once Atlas knows he can trust you, he becomes a devoted, loyal companion.
Because environmental changes make him nervous, Atlas will thrive best in a quiet, low-bustle home where he can decompress and build confidence at his own pace. He is looking for an adult-only or calm household with experienced adopters who understand timid dogs, respect boundaries, and can read subtle canine body language.
Atlas has a great restart in his foster home, where he loves taking off-leash walks with his canine foster siblings. He actually does much better off-leash around friendly, polite dogs! However, on-leash interactions require a thoughtful handler:
If you have experience with fearful dogs, a quieter home environment, and room in your heart for a gentle boy who just needs a soft place to land, Atlas is ready to meet you!
Medical: Atlas is neutered, heartworm tested, and microchipped. He is up to date on vaccinations.
Located In: Richmond
If you are interested in Atlas, please contact Rescue Rep Kris at krisellen.nm@gmail.com In your email, please tell me about yourself and why you would be a good fit for Atlas.
