Socialization/training: Monika loves all people, adults and children. She can “talk/roo” nearly any dog to chase and play with her. She quickly wiggles her way into the hearts of everyone that meets her. She’s the size that’s loved by all, bigger than a puppy but half the size of an average Setter. She was difficult to house train and still has an occasional “accident” in the house. She learned the doggie door all on her own. She loves treats but is so wiggly that it took a while to learn “sit” but masters it now. She knows her name and has pretty good recall, unless of course she’s distracted by a bird or rabbit in the yard. She has also taught herself how to open lever type door handles and can reach the countertops despite her tiny size, all when you’re not looking, of course. All of that in mind, she has been trusted in the house a few hours alone with two foster siblings and done well. She seems younger than her stated age and is still learning the house rules.
Crate trained: Monika is not fond of the crate but once in, she is okay for a few hours. She definitely would prefer to sleep with her foster siblings at night.
Leash trained: We are still working on leash walking. She is quite the hunter and very aware of her surroundings. She pulls, which at times can be a bit much despite her tiny size, but she really enjoys a walk and walks 3+ miles a day. She wears a harness for walks.
Activity Level : Monika is very high energy, almost that of a puppy which is why I believe she is much younger than her estimated age. She seems more like a year old. She likes to play with her foster siblings from the time her eyes open and for hours at a time. She is very vocal when she wants to play, consisting of a fabulous roo and bark mixed! She loves to run and chase and be chased by her friends at the dog park. She also loves all dog toys.
Fence: A 5’ fence at a minimum is required. She almost scaled a 6’ block wall trying to get a bird. Supervision in the yard is also recommended.
Behavior: Monika has a puppy like playfulness. When you need her to calm down she is easy to scoop up and snuggle and she will quickly melt into your neck and arms and soak up all the attention. She is a very loving dog.
Medical History: Monika had some gastrointestinal issues in Greece and for many weeks while in foster care. She is currently on a prescription food that has finally seemed to cure the issue. She also chewed her feet a lot when she arrived but was given a CytoPoint injection (allergy shot) which has totally cleared that up. If the chewing were to start again she may need another injection. She is spayed, microchipped, up to date on vaccinations, and on monthly heartworm prevention. Her next leishmaniasis test is due December 2024.
Monika originates from Greece where Leishmaniasis is endemic. She tested negative before coming to the USA, but the parasite can remain dormant in the system for many years, so potential adopters must be willing to commit to annual testing for the next 7 years. Typically, the test needs to be sent to a special lab, but any regular vet can draw the blood and send it to the lab. The cost of the test seems to vary widely by area, but is approximately $150-$250 or if your vet is willing to send the test to a veterinary college lab, cost can be as low as $80.
Foster Comments: If you love that “puppy size” that’s Monika! She is definitely Pocket Size at a mere 22 lbs! You can scoop her up and love on her very easily. Even though she still has occasional potty accidents or chews up the landscape lights you just look at her face and all is forgotten! There is something about this petite little girl that will instantly win your heart. She is entertaining the way she interacts with her foster siblings and can coax dogs that have never played before into playing with her. My pups and I have really enjoyed her company.
Foster Location: Florence, AZ
Volunteer transport can be arranged in the Continental US within a 1,000-mile distance between adopters & foster home. If interstate transport is provided for your adopted dog, there will be an additional charge of $50.00 for the required Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (“Health Certificate”). Typically, we are able to transport your adopted dog to within 2 hours of your home. *Dogs can be adopted outside the 1000-mile transport distance; however, adopters must be willing to either fly their adopted dog, drive to a location within the 1000-mile transport range, or make independent transport arrangements for their adopted dog. Transports to far Western states, from Eastern states, may have additional restrictions.
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