SURFER* Boxer Mix Tucson, AZ

Surfer may seem like an odd name for a dog living smack in the middle of the desert without an ocean in sight, but the principles of hanging loose are universal. Surfer is just riding the waves of life until he finds his forever home. Cowabunga!! In all seriousness though, Surfer is an incredibly smart dog who finds life in the shelter extremely challenging. He has spent too much time here at PACC and urgently needs to find a home. He spent time in an incredible short term foster home and did amazingly!! Heres what his foster said: Surfer is a young, smart, and vivacious pup who finds kennel life quite frustrating. I took him for two weeks where he was able to show his awesome potential in a home-like environment. Initially, he was nervous when left alone but he was never destructive and learned the routine, settling more and more quickly each time. He spent his time sleeping the day away either on the couch or inside the crate with the door open, occasionally playing with toys or chewing on a bone. He is also largely housebroken. He regularly went on walks with two of my like-size female dogs. He really wants to find a playmate with the same playful, energetic style. He listens quite well to verbal cues from the handler, even recalling well when out on a walk. Surfer really started learning how to play and then how to relax. We often took naps together and I took him to my moms house where he was initially cautious and a little reserved but became comfortable after about 20 minutes. Surfer needs someone who can continue working with him on being the best boy he can be. I know with patience and consistency, he will be an awesome companion. If I didnt already have seven dogs with different degrees of issues, I would add him to my family. Surfer also has tons of fans at the shelter- heres what some of them have said: Surfer is one of my favorite adventure companions. He has a lot of energy and is really smart. Once outside, we make a dash for the play yard so we can practice some fetch, tuggy, and chase-me. We also practice sit and paw. He has recently learned to sit on his back paws with both front paws up and forward (cute!). A particularly good smell will trigger some rolls in the grass, often accompanied by a belly rub. Surfer is an extremely intelligent and athletic dog who will need a firm handler to keep his enthusiasm directed towards positive activities. He will make a fine companion for the right person. Another wonderful time spent with Surfer this morning! We headed down to the wash for some new scents and exploration. Surfer investigated every bush with great enthusiasm but checked in regularly with great focus. Surfer would love to find a permanent adventure buddy! Surfer has become a wonderful hiking companion and loves to explore all the sights and smells in the wash. He checks in regularly with good eye contact, sits patiently for treats (gentle mouth), and is comfortable with touch. Surfer is an intelligent and active dog who would do best with an experienced partner who can help him channel his energy in a positive direction. Surfer has shared his kennel in the past and has been social and playful when meeting other dogs in playgroup. After such a long stay in the shelter, hell need some decompression time before fully integrating with other dogs in the home. If you have an active home and can keep Surfer on the move, grab your long board and head to PACC to meet him today!!