This dog is on our "Call to Action" list because his handlers are limited to our most skilled staff and volunteers. This level of handling is necessary for the safety of the dog, volunteers, and staff - but it also means his opportunities for enrichment and social interaction are unfortunately restricted. The need for skilled handling stems from extremely fearful body language and defensive aggression.

Our staff and volunteers are working on getting to know him and helping him come out of his shell. They will exercise general caution with this dog while we get to know him. Dog has bite history, minor injury - dog bit a staff member during impound/vaccine process while attempting to place a muzzle on the dog for everyone's safely. Dog has continued to display fearful body language. If progress can not be made in shelter, dog could be eligible for humane euthanasia.

For the safety of the dog, volunteers, and staff - and to give him the best chance to decompress and succeed - we urgently need a foster or rescue placement. A calm, stable home setting will allow him to de-escalate, lower his arousal, and show his true behavior more reliably than what we are seeing in the shelter. While we work hard to find him a successful placement, we also welcome additional trained volunteers who are comfortable stepping in to help handle him.

Rescue transfer is prefferred for further evaluation and rehabilitation - Rescues please contact vcar.rescue@venturacounty.gov.

However, if you would like to foster or adopt this dog, please reach out to animal.care@venturacounty.gov