Albert (blue and white) is a large 8-year old altered male. He is a very cuddly Italian Greyhound. Due to a break that was not set properly several years ago, Albert hasn't had the use of his back leg since he was a puppy and there was debate if he was in pain or not, although x-rays showed that he had significant arthritis in the leg. So, we decided it would be best to have his leg removed to ensure he wasn't in any pain. (He didn't really use the leg much except for touching it down sometimes anyway.) This does not stop him, or slow him down. He can run as fast as most IGs who use all 4 legs. Also, Albert has a scar from a surgery just forward of his right rear leg. This was reported by his previous owners to be from a hernia repair, but the vet records show it was from the removal of a tumor. There are no apparent ill effects from this other than the scarring.
[We have given Albert quite a bit of exercise as well - he arrived at Joes much heavier and we have shaved even another 1.5lbs off of him - not because he’s fat but trying to keep his weight down to take any pressure off his body as he is only using 3 legs - He does after long days have some slumping of the right back leg - we also observe this the morning after he has a long day - his weekends have been quite busy going to upstate NY and after playdates with a dog down the hallway in NYC]
He is playful, spry, and sometimes vocal (especially when outside). He enjoys close contact with his humans while napping. He is generally good-natured toward other Italian Greyhounds, although he sometimes gets possessive of his humans and will growl when another pup approaches during his cuddle time.
[We have never heard Albert growl - but we do not have other dogs - we noticed some possessiveness the day we took in Tater down the hall to work on Alberts anxiety - but he is easily talked out of it and engaged great with Tater - however we get the distinct feeling you have to be right on top of him - Greyhounds are a stubborn lot and you don't want behaviors to `set’] Albert is particularly so. He arrived vocal and he was easily trained to not bark for a treat - although he sits pretty readily - he will test you - He also wanted to be first out the elevator and all doors but now easily waits - so he will test you and gladly comply when you take charge]
Albert was surrendered because his family could no longer afford his care. They claimed that he was been prone to seizures, but none have been observed since he has come into rescue. Albert tested negative for heartworm. He is up to date on his shots and has had a complete dental. While he only has a few remaining healthy teeth, he can eat all canned food, small kibble, and treats without difficulty. Albert has several red marks on his underside and hindquarters. Although the vet was originally concerned these may have been caused by a clotting issue, the marks were later determined to be “cherry angiomas” which should have no impact on Albert’s overall health. As a precaution, he was placed on a vitamin K regimen which he has completed.
[We observed no seizures and agree with Joe it could have been unhealthful conditions - especially food quality - we continued feeding Albert the same diet as Joes family - he eats readily although we have not had much success making him sit for dinner - although he finally stopped barking for it after two weeks - progress]
Albert is very intelligent and loving. He is well house-trained and very rarely has accidents. He readily accepted wearing a belly band indoors to help prevent marking, so using one is recommended. Albert is also crate trained. He willingly goes into a crate when directed. Albert does suffer from separation anxiety whenever his humans leave him; however, he generally calms down after a short time. Crating him is recommended so he will not injure himself during his periods of anxiety. It was reported that he will get nippy when someone attempts to clip his nails. They were done during dental.
[We think Albert is an Einstein. He is up for and ready for anything - however we have not had much success leaving him without his whining, crying and eventually barking. He can go for hours we suspect - we have tried it in and out his crate - we tried it with and without distractions, sound machines, fans - actually we have a complicated training system in progress - but it will take someone with great time and dedication - he is after all use to living with many other animals. To us he seems calmer when they are around - we have not had a chance to have him spend time with his actual brother (Ice/Freddie) but he generally enjoys being with Tater a friend down the hall - I work from home all day so I test and work with him dozens of times a day and the longest I can leave before you need to correct is about 4.5 minutes] I think - I know he will get it eventually but he will get it better with another dog in his pack that he can rely on to be there and be distracted with].
Albert is what we call a “Biggie Iggy”. He is a sweet boy who loves pettings, cuddles, and giving an abundance of kisses. He enjoys running in the yard and barking at passersby. If you crave doggie affection, Albert is the dog for you.
Please feel free to contact us with any additional questions or concerns.
