Lively Missy

Who is Missy?

Missy is approximately 2 years old.  She is a short-haired black and white mongrel.  She is a medium sized dog who is already micro-chipped and will be neutered before she goes to her new home.

Why did Missy come into the Home?

Missy came into Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in April 2006 as her previous owners were absent from their home for too long throughout the day.

What is Missy like?

Missy has been described as a hyperactive Duracell bunny and this description is not far from the truth!  She has masses of energy which owners are going to have to provide for. She is a very bright spark with excellent training motivations.  It is important that she has activities, training and mental challenges to channel this energy into.  This dog also loves people, there is no greater, more stimulating reward for Missy than a pat of encouragement.  

Why has Missy been seen by the Behaviour Unit?

Missy has spent time with the staff of the Behaviour Unit primarily for basic self-control purposes.  This is a dog with high energy levels which drive her boisterous and uncontrolled behaviours like jumping up or barging into people.  This lack of basic control can escalate if approached the wrong way by the handler.  Future owners must have worked with enthusiastic characters before and be confident in dealing with over the top behaviours in a consistent fashion. 

Owners should also be able to take advice on how to structure her games, to possibly introduce her to some agility activities or varying feeding methods as techniques for challenging her and keeping her active.  Remember, her main drive is always  to please you so she will learn quickly.  This should be rewarding for both dog and owner.   

Finally Missy has handling issues.  Handling really over-stimulates her, she is a complete fidget and fights restraint so owners will need to work on a calm approach to handling at the right times.  Staff will advise on this.

What kind of home is Missy looking for?

Missy cannot live in an urban or built-up area.  Large, nearby exercise spaces will be key, some for burn-offs and others for more focused training.  Owners will need a big enough home so that there are areas where Missy can spend time on her own and have chill out time, like a utility room or a space in the garden. 

What kind of owners is Missy looking for?

Lifestyle is far more important than any breed experience but owners should have had dogs before and be confident at handling them and maintaining them in a home.  Owners must have active, rural-based lifestyles.  There must be sufficient burn-off walks and activities to help her achieve a state-of-mind where she'll concentrate.  A patient attitude will also be essential as the jumping up will test you.  Older teens could be at home but they will have to be on board in terms of the consistency Missy will need.  Missy would benefit from living with another dog, male or female.  She is great with other dogs and loves to play.  This would not work if the other dog has similar control problems though.

I Think I fit that criteria, what should I do next?

Contact a member of the Behaviour team on 02076277884, or email [email protected] and quote the reference 2006/01988.  Missy will need some further training in her new home. To receive advice and guidance regarding this training from the Behaviour Unit staff that have worked with her, potential owners should be prepared to come into the Dogs Home for a minimum of two visits.

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