This dog is on our "Call to Action" list because his handlers will be 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 a bite incident that occurred while he was being walked by another dog in kennel. Based on the context and behavior observed, the bite is believed to have been a redirected response - a stress-driven reaction commonly seen in high-arousal shelter environments, rather than an intentional attempt to harm.

We will take steps to reduce the likelihood of this happening again, including modifying handling protocols and minimizing exposure to known stressors. However, the shelter environment continues to create significant strain for him, and remaining here increases the risk of repeated incidents. If we are unable to provide him with handling and enrichment or his stress levels continue to elevate, he may become a candidate 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, adopter, 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.

He will be under a quarantine observation until 2/24/26.

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 after his quarantine period.

Update 3/1: Dog did have a poor evaluation with other dogs and did not display pro social behavior with handlers. During observation, some medical concerns have been noted for further evaluation by our veterinary team. Dog remains under evaluation for safety of placement, we welcome dedicated interest in adoption or rescue in the meantime. Urgent pleas have been sent to rescue partners, but no committment to date.

The dog he came in with is also at risk of humane euthanasia, please see https://animalservices.venturacounty.gov/viewan-2/?ida=A876041 and let us know if able to take together.