Alone and heartbroken sweet pup hasn’t been noticed in shelter for three years

Poor “Dougie” seems to be completely invisible at the Brookhaven Animal Shelter. He originally entered the shelter in October 2019, and he patiently waited and waited until six months later, when everyone thought the pup’s best day had finally arrived – Dougie was adopted.

Sadly, six months later, Dougie found himself back at the shelter. His family returned him because he repeatedly jumped over the four-foot fence in his backyard to chase after other animals.

Dougie is as sweet as they come, a very affectionate cuddle bug with tons of love to share, but he is simplay not a fan of other animals. You see, Dougie as a high prey drive which requires management by an experienced dog person.

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So why does Dougie insist on chasing other animals? A dog having a prey drive is normal; the key is management. Dog training exercises can do a lot taming a dog’s high prey drive. Reducing distractions can be a key to teaching commands and can help the dog to concentrate.

According to the AKC, the instinctive, natural behavior is stronger in hounds, terriers, sporting and herding breeds. Some dogs love the thrill of the chase and want to chase and sometimes kill their targets. One of the best training methods is to work on an emergency cue to help the chances of calling your dog off once in a crisis mode.

For harnessing the predatory instinct, try using a frisbee or a ball. Some dogs will be satisfied with a designated sandpit for digging out hidden toys. Make these games and activities fun for your dog, and the desire to chase the neighbor’s cat might become a thing of the past. Dougie needs an active home where he can exercise daily.

As for Dougie, his information tells us he walks well on a leash and can pass other dogs with no issues while out on a walk. Off leash, he escapes from the yard and will run after any animal he sees.

Dougie will do best as the only pet in an adult-only household with a secure, six-foot high fenced in yard. He is estimated to be about 9 years young, weighs 64 pounds, is up to date on vaccinations, neutered, micro-chipped and heart-worm negative. He is completely housebroken, knows his basic commands, and is crate trained.

We really can’t say enough about what an affectionate loving guy he is! Dougie is an all around amazing dog with a lively personality. He is very people oriented, eager to please and very intelligent. Could you be the one to make his wish come true?

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For more information about adopting Dougie:

Town of Brookhaven Animal Shelter

300 Horseblock Road

Brookhaven, NY 11719

(631) 451-6950

Dougie is 64 pounds, estimated to be about 9 years young, up to date on vaccinations, neutered, micro-chipped and heartworm negative. If you are interested in meeting Dougie please fill out our Matchmaker Adoption Application so we may arrange a meet and greet for you. 

• Listing Identification Number : 22-56-1148
• Breed: Mix
• Animal: Adoptable
• Color: Brown Merle
• Gender: Male
• Age: Adult
• Spayed / Neutered: Yes

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