Banjo (WT-D-4297)

Check him out - an absolutely beautiful, well socialized, well adjusted, dog-friendly bi-black Sheltie named Banjo. Banjo is a 6 to 9 month old teenager weighing in at 24 pounds. We think he is a pure breed. He's a sweet boy, good with everyone, including kids.

Shelties as a breed are not a dog that fit into all households. They are bred to be herding dogs and have quick reflexes, which can make them overly reactive to loud noises. They will often chase (in an attempt to herd) anything that moves ... including small children, cats, rabbits, and small dogs. Unlike some Shelties, Banjo is not shy of people or other dogs and continual socialization will guarantee he stays that way. Banjo absolutely loves playing with other dogs. He does have the Sheltie bark, but it is not extreme and can be managed. He has not been cat tested. Banjo is housebroken but does still chew like a puppy - his likes to chew on bones. He is a little puppy mouthy but has great bite inhibition and shows no sign of food or possession guarding.

Shelties love attention and they love to learn. They become very attached to their family, hating to be left alone for long periods. In short, they demand nothing less than to be a FULL member of your family...they do not consider themselves mere dogs.

Banjo will need regular professional grooming in addition to daily brushing. Expect a lot of shedding. Banjo is very active and requires a lot of physical exercise. True to his working breed heritage, Banjo is very smart so requires mental stimulation, without which he may invent his own job, which in most cases will not exactly be one that would be of your choosing :( Activities that would be excellent both mentally and physically include agility, rally, tracking, competitive obedience or herding (yes, there are herding lessons and trials in the IL/WI area).

Banjo walks well on leash and does not jump up on people or furniture. He does not counter surf and is crate trained. He rides well in a car.

Because he is still a puppy (OK, a young teen), he will need to go to training and be let out for a potty breaks during the day. Banjo’s ideal home would have a fenced yard, a doggy sibling to play with, and an owner willing to provide him with regular opportunities to vent his energy and do interesting things. Shelties do best in a harmonious home.

Banjo's adoption fee of $325 includes: vet exam, heartworm test, DAPP (distemper combo) vaccination, bordetella vaccination, rabies vaccination, microchip, deworming, dewclaw removal and neuter.

Bronson (LK-D-4291)

Bronson is lab-terrier (likely bully breed) mix. He is estimated to be about 2 years old and weighs in at 52 pounds. He's a gorgeous, handsome boy (his pictures don't do him justice - stay tuned for some better ones!) He is so cute when he looks at you with his little wrinkly-crinkly worried face. He is a really nice dog with a great personality. He's great with people, good in the house, doesn't chew, and learned to potty outside in 2 days. He's puppyish and playful, needs general obedience training and more socialization with other dogs. He appears to be trustworthy with the cat in his foster home, but plays a little too exuberantly with the resident dog and wants to be the boss. His foster mom says "I think he will be a phenomenal dog once he goes to puppy school." Bronson is looking for a dedicated owner who will help Bronson blossom into the phenomenal dog he is meant to be.

Bronson's adoption fee of $290 includes: vet exam, heartworm test, DAPP (distemper combo) vaccination, bordetella vaccination, rabies vaccination, microchip, deworming and neuter.

Casper (DPH-D-4298)

New Arrival!!

Just in: Casper, the friendly dog! He's about 2 years old and weighs in at 55 pounds. A pretty white lab mix, found running at large in a Southern Illinois rural community. The pound we pulled him from says he passed his dog-friendly, cat-friendly and kid-friendly tests with flying colors. Though still a little bit scared in his new surroundings, he's getting acclimated nicely. Stay tuned for updates as we get to know him better.

Casper's adoption fee of $290 includes: vet exam, heartworm test, heartworm preventative, flea control, DAPP (distemper combo) vaccination, bordetella vaccination, rabies vaccination, microchip, deworming and neuter.

Bugsley (DPH-D-4277)

Adopted!!

Meet Bugsley, a mixed boy who looks like perhaps a retriever-shepherd. This is one pretty boy, tan with a black mask, and big sweet button eyes to show his big heart. He's estimated to be 3 years old and weighs in at 48 pounds. Bugsley is a very sweet and social boy - the doggie daycare that fosters him for us renamed him "Happy" because he has "wigglebutt syndrome". 

Bugsley gets along with other dogs and has a calm and loving personality. He still needs some work on housetraining and basic obedience, but is not out of control or jumpy. Though Bugsley is always happy to be petted, he is a bit tentative about being restrained and maneuvered, so we recommend no small children who would not be able to resist giving him "hugs". 

Bugsley's adoption fee of $290 includes: vet exam, heartworm test, DAPP (distemper combo) vaccination, bordetella vaccination, rabies vaccination, microchip, deworming and neuter.

Champagne (ABR-D-4290)

Champagne is a lovely, mature, blond lab-terrier mix, estimated to be at least 7 years old. She was seized from a lady who was neglecting her and allowing her to have litter after litter of puppies. She has had a hard life and deserves a great new home where she can just relax. She is sweet and loving and just adorable. She is good with other dogs as well as the cats in her new foster home.

She likes to laze the day away on her pillow, but still has some puppy in her and will play with a stick or ball outside or tug-of-war inside. She enjoys walks and even will get up to a slow jog and is good on a leash. She is trustworthy in the home: housebroken and doesn't chew anything that's not hers to chew.

After everything she has has been through, she is still affectionate and trusting. If any animal deserves to know what a couch and a warm home feels like, it’s this girl. She has had it rough and we would love nothing more than to see her live out her life knowing what love and kindness is

Champagne's adoption fee of $185 includes: vet exam, heartworm test, DAPP (distemper combo) vaccination, bordetella vaccination, rabies vaccination, microchip, deworming and spay.

Coco Puff (AG-D-4268)

Coco Puff is an affectionate 11-pound red Pomeranian (mix?) with a sweet temperament. Her excellent house manners and the fact that she is housebroken are evidence that she had probably grown up in a stable home situation. The vets think that she is 4-5 years old. She gets along wonderfully with the children in her foster family. Coco Puff loves to cuddle and would stay in your arms all day but she has an easy-going, undemanding personality.

Coco adores people but doesn’t particularly enjoy the company of other dogs. In close proximity, she will tolerate other dogs but will sometimes give a warning if a dog invades her personal space. On walks –which she loves—she ignores squirrels, rabbits, and birds but will bark at other dogs. With some training, we believe this will improve; however, we believe Coco would be happiest to be the only dog in your life. If you're more of a homebody rather than a dog park type of person, Coco will be perfect for you.

Coco Puff's adoption fee of $290 includes: vet exam, heartworm test, DAPP (distemper combo) vaccination, bordetella vaccination, rabies vaccination, microchip, deworming, dental cleaning and spay.

Costello (WP-D-4285)

Costello is a white terrier mix, believed to be the son of Karmello, and estimated to be just turning 1 year old. He weighs in at 8 pounds. He's got a shaggy, wirey coat and is likely very low-shed. He is a friendly boy, but still a bit timid and could use some more socialization. Costello is new to Adopt-A-Pet, so stay tuned for updates as he settles in at his new foster home.

You can meet Costello at: Wilmette Pet Center, 625 Green Bay Road, anytime during store hours seven days a week (847-251-6750) www.wilmettepetcenter.com . Please understand that though you may want to take him home with you at that time, that you will first have to go through the application process.

Costello's adoption fee of $325 includes: vet exam, heartworm test, DAPP (distemper combo) vaccination, bordetella vaccination, rabies vaccination, microchip, deworming and neuter.

Cupcake (DPH-D-4178)

Cupcake is a stunning mixed breed that looks like a small black lab / shepherd mix. She is about 1 year old and a nice, manageable size at about 30 pounds. Cupcake is a special needs dog looking for a special someone that will give her lots of time, patience and love. According to doctors, Cupcake likely has a central nervous system/vestibular problem which manifests by her sometimes walking/running in circles and occasionally seeming to have trouble focusing. There is no harm to the circling, it just makes her look somewhat odd. As she has matured while with us, however, her circling has lessened in severity as she has learned to compensate very well. She will probably always be a bit "goofy" - but, then, aren't we all? 

Despite her little quirks, her quality of life is still very decent - She is an extremely happy girl, very loving and people-oriented, with an excellent demeanor. When someone she recognizes says hi to her she does a very good impression of a horse prance, lifting up the front paws, because she gets so excited. She is currently being fostered at a doggie daycare facility and she has acclimated beautifully and gets along great with all the other dogs. She is a staff favorite, and all the clients have gotten to know her and they all ask for her when they come in. She has almost become like their "mascot". Ultimately, though, we think she deserves a family of her own who will continue to nurture her, train her and love her. She deserves that special bond with her special person or family. If you think that might be you and you would like more information or would be interested in meeting Cupcake in person, please give us a call. 

Cupcake's adoption fee of $225 includes: vet exams, DAPP (distemper-parvo) combo vaccination, bordetella vaccination, rabies vaccination, deworming, microchip and spay.

Dobie (SF-D-4202)

Beauty in a big way! Meet the coolest big boy around – Dobie the Magnificent! – a 3-year-old Doberman mix with a big heart and playful spirit. His motto? Belly up for rubs!

Dobie is completely housebroken and gets along with dogs but has not been cat tested. He would love children with all his being, but at 72 lbs. that may be a little too much loving, so for safety reasons we suggest a home without small children. Dobie wishes to be with his people all the time, but is crate trained and sleeps in his large crate at night. He only chews on appropriate items (bones, Kongs, rope toy, etc) but his toys need to be made for big chewers. He does not dig and only barks when there is someone at the door. He still needs a little leash training, and using a no-pull harness is working wonders. With regards to training, Dobie is one smart dog. He picked up Sit in two days and is currently working on Down and Wait without a problem.

Dobie would love to have a large area to romp in and someone to call his own. He is a super sweet, loving and loyal dog. Though a good dog, because of his size and breed, training classes are mandatory.

Dobie's adoption fee of $290 includes: vet exam, heartworm test, DAPP (distemper combo) vaccination, bordetella vaccination, rabies vaccination, microchip, deworming and neuter.

Gonzo (WP-D-4296)

Meet Gonzo, a nice little terrier-chihuahua(?) mix, estimated to be about 1 year old and weighing in at 16 pounds. Gonzo is a sweet boy, playful and energetic. As with all terriers, he will need a family who will make sure he gets adequate exercise. A fenced yard to run around in would be ideal. Gonzo lost his home when his owner (who had too many dogs) couldn't care for him anymore. He's looking for a new family that will give him all the love and attention that he deserves.

You can meet Gonzo at his foster home: Wilmette Pet Center, 625 Green Bay Road, anytime during store hours seven days a week (847-251-6750). Please understand that though you may want to take him home with you at that time, that you will first have to go through the application process.

Gonzo's adoption fee of $325 includes: vet exam, heartworm test, DAPP (distemper combo) vaccination, bordetella vaccination, rabies vaccination, microchip, deworming and neuter.

Gypsy (JS-D-4270)

Having cleaned the shelter, volunteers had left and I was getting ready to leave myself when I heard the harmony begin……..from behind a closed kennel area door, I was able to "catch" Gypsy in action. What a sad voice she has. I wonder what was being said - once they thought every human had left....

Here's Gypsy singing the Homeless Dog Blues: http://youtu.be/50qfojCy2HA

And next morning playing in the yard: http://youtu.be/gJvgbrFYHTo

(If link does not take you to video, then: RIGHT CLICK on link and select OPEN LINK IN NEW WINDOW)

But . . .Today is the first day of the rest of Gypsy's life…and the rest of her life is already so much better than the one she left at the rural pound in southern Illinois. Gypsy is now safe in an Adopt-A-Pet foster home. She is a 7-9 year old, 53 pound blond husky mix with eyes that are a mixture of brown and ice blue, a sweet face, and a tongue that wants to kiss everyone she meets. It appears that her past life was not easy - parts of both of her ears are torn off and she came to us with heartworm - but, despite whatever happened to her, she is one of the nicest dogs you will ever meet. She gets along with people, is wonderful in the house, is housebroken, is quiet and respectful, enjoys other dogs, is great with kids, sits nicely in the car, and is an affectionate and devoted companion. Please don't let her age scare you away - there's lots of life left in this gal and she deserves nothing but the best going forward.

Gypsy is finished with her heartworm treatments, but her activity must be restricted until mid-May while her body heals. She doesn't mind though - she's happy to be hanging out and part of a family for the first time in a long time. But after that....look out!!!! Gypsy will be as "good as new", once again running and playing, socializing at the dog park, going on long walks.

Gypsy's soulful and trusting eyes teach us so much about the wonder of dogs - how, even in the face of the adversity and hopelessness of their pasts, they are willing to give humans a second chance. Now it's Gypsy's second chance for a happy life. And whoever finds her first will truly be the winner.

Gypsy's adoption fee of $150 includes: vet exam, heartworm test/treatment, DAPP (distemper combo) vaccination, bordetella vaccination, rabies vaccination, deworming, microchip, and, of course, she is spayed.

Neela (WP-D-4294)

This is little Neela, a 2 year old chihuahua. She's tiny at only 7 pounds. She enjoys attention, never says no to a lap, and is learning to walk on a leash. She's quite sweet, but, typical of her breed, needs a quiet, calm environment. She will not do well with a lot of noise and commotion, and, because of her small size, no very small children, please.

You can meet Neela at her foster home: Wilmette Pet Center, 625 Green Bay Road, anytime during store hours seven days a week (847-251-6750). Please understand that though you may want to take her home with you at that time, that you will first have to go through the application process.

Neela's adoption fee of $325 includes: vet exam, heartworm test, DAPP (distemper combo) vaccination, bordetella vaccination, rabies vaccination, microchip, deworming and spay.

Leo (WP-D-4289)

This little scruffy terrier mix is Leo, estimated to be 1-2 years old and weighing in at 11 pounds. Leo was left behind when his owners moved without him. He is looking for a new family and a FOREVER home this time where he will never feel abandoned again. He is a sweet boy just waiting for your love!

You can meet Leo at his foster home: Wilmette Pet Center, 625 Green Bay Road, anytime during store hours seven days a week (847-251-6750). Please understand that though you may want to take his home with you at that time, that you will first have to go through the application process.

Leo's adoption fee of $325 includes: vet exam, heartworm test, DAPP (distemper combo) vaccination, bordetella vaccination, rabies vaccination, microchip, deworming and neuter.

Oliver (MM-D-4005)

Oliver is a 3 year old, 38 pound yellow lab mix, we suspect he might have some hound in him. He's a very friendly boy, sweet-natured and people-oriented. Loves everyone, and is good with the neighborhood kids too. He lives harmoniously in a multi-dog household, but does have some issues upon first meeting other big dogs and needs a dog-savvy handler and a proper introduction. He is okay with the cats in his foster home. He wants to be petted and likes to be the center of attention. He's moderate energy, housebroken, not a big barker, generally well behaved in the home, but still needs formal obedience and leash training. Oliver tends toward allergies but is easily managed with over-the-counter allergy pills. Oliver is a great dog for the family that is willing to invest some time and training into him. He will transition easily and become your best friend in no time at all.

Oliver's adoption fee of $240 includes: vet exam, flea preventative, heartworm test, DHPP (distemper-parvo combo) vaccination, rabies vaccination, bordetella vaccination, deworming, microchip and neutering.

Otto (JW-D-4287)

This super adorable fellow is Otto, a little mixed-up breed that looks like one of the toy terrier group, perhaps a manchester or fox, or perhaps some min-pin or chihuahua, or maybe even some doxie since he's long and low. He's about 2 years old and weighs in at 17 pounds. He's active and energetic, enjoys his walks and wants to sniff everything and meet other dogs, and as a bonus, his radar ears will warn you of low-flying aircraft!

Though Otto is friendly and sociable once he's in a comfortable setting, he gets stressed easily which can manifest itself in fearful, snappy behavior, so he needs a quieter home with an experienced dog person or family that will give him the routine, the patience and the understanding he needs. He needs someone to help him work through his issues, and will benefit from training and socialization. No kids for this one - until he's better managed he's an adults-only dog. Give us a call if you think you're the one to give this little guy the second chance that we believe he deserves!

Otto's adoption fee of $250 includes: vet exam, heartworm test, DAPP (distemper combo) vaccination, bordetella vaccination, rabies vaccination, microchip, deworming and neuter.

Pinto (WP-D-4295)

This little bean is Pinto. He is 1-2 years old and weighs in at 8 pounds. Though he's small in stature, he's big on personality. He is playful and enjoys petting and lap sitting. He's very sweet, but, typical of his breed, needs a quiet, calm environment. He will not do well with a lot of noise and commotion, and, because of his small size, no very small children, please.

You can meet Pinto at his foster home: Wilmette Pet Center, 625 Green Bay Road, anytime during store hours seven days a week (847-251-6750). Please understand that though you may want to take him home with you at that time, that you will first have to go through the application process.

Pinto's adoption fee of $325 includes: vet exam, heartworm test, DAPP (distemper combo) vaccination, bordetella vaccination, rabies vaccination, microchip, deworming, dental cleaning and neuter.

Rags (MC-D-4293)

Rags is a 2 year, 22 pound old terrier mix who looks like Toto's big sister. She is one outgoing, loving, cheerful little dog! She is house-trained and well mannered inside and out, and prefers to sleep in her crate at night. During the day she loves going on long, vigorous walks, and playing with other dogs. She has spent time with golden retreivers, border collies, as well as 100 pound dobermans, and gets along with all breeds, all sizes!

Her foster mom says she is great with kids, and doesn't have a mean bone in her body. She needs leash training and a brush-up session on overall obedience, but Rags is one smart dog and learns very quickly.

If you are looking for a playful companion for another dog, or a fast walker to join you for your daily walks, Rags is just a doll!

Rags' adoption fee of $300 includes: vet exam, heartworm test, DAPP (distemper combo) vaccination, bordetella vaccination, rabies vaccination, microchip, deworming and spay.

Stella Roo (JK-D-4254-R)

This is the talented Stella Roo. She appears to be Chihuahua with a little terrier and, judging by her ears, a little kangaroo mixed in! She’s 11 pounds and about two years old. You’d never know she was left to fend for herself in an abandoned apartment. She was skin and bones when a nice family rescued her. She’s a little timid at first, but when she feels safe, her talents shine. You can’t help but smile when Stella Roo's near. She loves her stuffed animals and can toss them in the air or across the room to play fetch by herself. She hides her bones all over the house and can remember exactly where everyone is when it’s time to play with them. She loves to run. Depending on her mood, she’s fast and graceful like a gazelle, or playful and bouncy like a little kangaroo; hence her middle name ‘Roo’. When it’s time to settle down, she’s a master snuggler. She loves to burrow under the covers next to you, or sprawl across your chest.

Stella plays wonderfully with the dogs and cats in her foster home. She loves to go on walks with them, and is perfect on the leash. She prances along nicely, enjoying every moment and every passing smell. As a bonus, her radar ears will warn you of low-flying aircraft! She’s 90% potty trained and 100% crate trained. She actually loves her crate - it has become her little bedroom. She buries treats or toys in the cover on her bed to save for bedtime.

Stella Roo is a joy and will bring endless happiness to a family that has patience and lots of love. Due to her small size, she would be best with older children. She is still young and has puppy energy. Stella is learning ‘sit’ and ‘stay’, and would do wonderful in an obedience class. She is a smart girl and will make a wonderful companion and family pet.

Stella's adoption fee of $325 includes: vet exam, heartworm test, DAPP (distemper combo) vaccination, bordetella vaccination, rabies vaccination, microchip, deworming, and spay.

Traveler (MCON-D-4238)

Hopefully this little guy's traveling days are over! Little Traveler found himself in a rural central Illinois county pound and he immediately became the staff favorite. He is very loving and the first dog to greet you. We transported him up to safety and he is now looking for his forever home that will keep him inside, safe and sound. He's a cute little spaniel mix with a smiley demeanor, bursting with personality. We estimate him to be middle aged, at least 5 years old, possibly up to 7 or 8, and he weighs in at a nice, manageable 29 pounds. 

Traveler gets along with other dogs nicely, and is very active and playful. He has tons of energy; loves to go for walks, play fetch and tug-of-war. Once he is finally tired-out, he likes to snuggle close to have his soft fur petted and his tummy scratched. Traveler is house-trained, and a true people lover. He has shown a great liking for playing with children (of all ages). 

All in all, he's just a happy-go-lucky fellow who will make someone a great little pet. 

Traveler's adoption fee of $275 includes: vet exam, DAPP (distemper combo) vaccination, bordetella vaccination, rabies vaccination, microchip, deworming and neuter.