Introducing Walker, a BTRC Foster dog

Let me introduce you to our new foster dog, Walker. Walker is a 1 year old neutered male. He is half Boston Terrier (mom) and half (we believe) Boxer. He has been in foster care his whole life as he, his mom and his 6 brothers and sisters all had Demodectic Mange. While everyone else has long been adopted, Walker remained in his original foster's care all year. His foster parent could no longer look after him and asked that someone else take over. Due to being "substantially similar" in Ontario, I was contacted and agreed to take him on.

Walker came to me Saturday night from Toronto via an airline who shall remain unnamed. The dog that arrived was not sweet and happy. I'd expected some nervousness due to the trauma of leaving the only people he has ever known, and being shoved into a noisy airplane for hours, to be greeted by strangers. However, Walker was VERY unhappy and fear-aggressive. We can only imagine what kind of trauma he experienced on the trip, whether it was the trip itself or the way the airline may have (man)handled him.

With many thanks to two trainer friends of mine (one who is very experienced with working with fearful dogs), Walker finally left his crate late the next morning. For the next several hours, we kept things slow and calm, working on confidence building so that he would know he is safe. He would not come near me much at all, until I was the only person left, and then he began his bond with me.

Walker was quite "soft" and submissive during play with Brosa the first 24 hours out of his crate, but by Monday afternoon, his confidence was back and he engaged play completely. The crate is no longer a place of fear once again.

We begin training Tuesday evening to work on his social skills and obedience training, in preparation of adopting him to his real family who is waiting for him out there, somewhere!

Walker is a medium to large size dog, with terrier & Boxer energy. He will require a home that has the energy and commitment for him. Walker is good with other dogs and seems to be okay with cats. His original foster home had children who loved him as well. He is a love bug who is also a bit wary/cautious of strangers.

If you or someone else you know may be interested in adopting Walker, please read all of the information/links on this page, then complete Boston Terrier Rescue Canada's adoption application.