(Truley is posting this for me b/c I cannot start new threads in some of the forums, I get a strange error and it's been happening all day)
Meet our new dog! His current name is Teddy but I think we're changing it once we think of a good one (suggestions welcome). He is a rescue dog from a local rescue that I believe to be very reputable (they foster dogs, have a pretty strict screening process, and even have their own store/adoption center). Teddy was born at the rescue, but when his first owners both suffered serious health problems, he had to be returned so he could receive more attention from someone more mobile. He has been in foster care for a month and had his butt shaved b/c he was matted when he came back. We're not sure what he is, looks like any random combination of herding breeds. He has a wonderful temperament. He is more playful and social than Kenya, but he's actually more submissive and is very respectful of Kenya's space. He is chasing my youngest cat, but the older two know enough not to run. I think once the novelty of a running cat wears off, he will be fine. He and Kenya met at the adoption center and did really well. They rode in the car together and when we stopped at the pet store for a crate, everyone was loving on them both. At home, she nipped at him a few times to set him in his place, but now they are doing good. They are both obedient enough so that I can have them sit near each other and they take turns getting treats. They are also both crate trained so we've been doing short turns of one in and one out. Just now he laid down about 4 feet from Kenya and they are both lying still. He is interested in her and wants to play, but seems to understand she needs her space for a bit. He is a gentle giant, a peacekeeper. Besides having to do some rearranging to fit two large crates, he fits right into our household. He's already gone for a walk, pooped, eaten a meal, chased a cat, finished off the water bucket, and chewed on a pig ear.
Here are some pics of Teddy and DH at home. He knows sit, shake, and stay (for a short time). We're already making progress on "down".
Here are a few pics of Teddy from his foster mom's album:
My Photo Journal: http://www.flickr.com/photos/7784676@N08/sets/