Gizmo (Shelton)
***GIZMO is only available to CT Residents. Submit an online application to adopt a dog to apply.
Sweet little GIZMO has only known a very small world.
At just 13 months old, GIZMO has spent nearly his entire life confined to a crate — no bed, no blanket, no comfort — with only a urine-soaked tray beneath him and kibble scattered in the mess.
He wasn’t allowed out, wasn’t shown compassion, and wasn’t given the chance to simply be a dog. When his owner attempted to surrender him to the Pound, Animal Control reached out to us instead — because a sensitive, frightened soul like GIZMO did not belong there.
GIZMO is understandably overwhelmed by people. He is terrified of being picked up; his little legs flail and he sometimes poops out of fear. But despite everything he has endured, he has never once growled, snapped, or shown aggression. He is a gentle, fragile-hearted boy who simply doesn’t know yet that humans can be safe. Once he is in your arms, he relaxes and will even settle into your lap — a small but powerful sign that he wants to trust.
In foster care GIZMO is slowly learning that life can be kinder. He shares his foster home with four other dogs and does well with them, although he prefers a dog his size. In fact, having another confident, friendly dog around seems to help him feel more secure. He tends to retreat to his open crate when he feels unsure, but he comes out on his own terms and allows his people to reach in and bring him out.
One encouraging sign: GIZMO is eager to go outside to potty — even in the snow — which strongly suggests he was never allowed outside of his crate in his former life. Inside, he will use a pee pad if he must, but he clearly prefers the outdoors when given the chance.
GIZMO came to us significantly underweight. He’s a picky eater, but loves the Stella & Chewy freeze-dried raw coated kibble and that is what we feed him. He will require regular grooming.
GIZMO requires a VERY kind, patient adopter with a secure, fenced yard and at least one other confidant, dog-friendly dog to help show him the way. GIZMO is not a dog who will be ready for busy environments, lots of handling, or loud households. He did live previously in a home with children, but for now he needs understanding, time, and gentle guidance — a quiet, stable home with no young children.
For the right person, watching him slowly come out of his shell will be incredibly rewarding.
GIZMO is neutered, vaccinated, negative for heart worm and tick born illnesses, and microchipped. He is being fostered in Shelton, CT.
