Ruff Ruff! My name is O'Reilly

O'Reilly, a 6 year old, 9 lb Italian Greyhuahua (Italian Greyhound/Chihuahua hybrid) was a "practice baby" who was abandoned when his family had a human baby. O'Reilly was beaten severely when he nipped at the baby, and based on his behavior he was likely beaten often. He suffered multiple injuries and is slowly recuperating. After several days at an animal clinic, Homeward Bound Canine Rescue and Rehabilitation asked World Animal Foundation to assist with his recovery and re-socialization. O'Reilly arrived at WAF frightened of everything...any sound, movement, animal, person. He spent the first couple of days cowering in the back of a crate, trembling when anyone came near him. He would snarl and lunge if anyone came close. After a couple of days he began to slowly and cautiously take treats from his foster parents, and by the third day he would come out of his crate for treats and food. O'Reilly then immediately bonded with his caretakers and began following them everywhere. He cautiously allowed them to pet him, jumped onto their laps and gave them "kisses." Unfortunately he experienced pain from gentle petting due to his injuries and thought he was being hurt by a human again. He hid under a bed for hours, cowering and shaking. Eventually he was coaxed out and has not left the side of his foster parents since. O'Reilly is still timid and easily frightened from the abuse he suffered, but has made tremendous progress. He is very gentle and well behaved. He loves to cuddle, be held, carried and likes to sleep under the covers with humans. He gets along well with other dogs and cats and is beginning to play with his canine companions. He learns quickly and is now housebroken and leash trained. Since he has had time to recover from his experience and adjust to his new surroundings, he shows no sign of aggression and is actually exceptionally gentle and unlikely to bite anyone unless he feels threatened. O'Reilly is the type of dog who wants to be with his humans 24 hours a day and will follow you everywhere. Once he heals he will make a very devoted companion for someone who understands and appreciates the nature of Chihuahuas and Italian Greyhounds and is patient with his timid personality. O'Reilly is neutered, up to date on vaccines, good with dogs and cats. O'Reilly's adoption fee is $150.00. If you are interested in him, please contact Homeward Bound at 859-490-0486  or e-mail us at homewardbound1818@yahoo.com.