Sarah Is A Lethal White

Sarah is up to date on all her shots, and she is spayed. She is housebroken and crate trained and ready to roll right into a new home when you are ready to swing her in your home.

Sarah After A hard Play Outside

Sarah being a typical Australian Shepherd, loves to play, she instantly fit into her foster home of 4 others, including a cat and guinea pig. She will play with the others all day long and is sometimes found at the bottom of the pile.

Sarah Fits Right In

Sarah has a very sweet and snuggling disposition, seen wagging her tail all the time and of course as the shots will show, she seems a bit of a tom boy, as she is always dirty.

Tomboy Anyone?

Sarah is ready for a forever home, and will fit into any situation, be it another dog, cats, kids (of all sizes) she is what we call one of our bullet proof dogs.

Sarah is being fostered in Rochester Minnesota. To adoption this sweet pea, complete an application at Aussie Rescue Midwest Adoption, reference ASRM 0021.

Complete Our Adoption Application

Meet sweet little Maggie, a 8 week old lethal white blue merle female Australian Shepherd. She came to us after being removed from a situation that was not ideal, with the summers 100+ heat, she had only a little bowl of water, and she was covered in fleas. A kind Samaritan saw her crawl out from under a blanket. She was starved and had been taken from her mother at 4 weeks old.

Maggie Puppy 10 Weeks Old Blue Merle Female Lethal White Australian Shepherd Illinois

Maggie Puppy 10 Weeks Old Blue Merle Female Lethal White Australian Shepherd Illinois

Maggie is what comes from the breeding of 2 blue merle or red merles and the end result is a puppy who is mostly white, usually deaf and sometimes blind. Maggie is just deaf, and seems to see just fine. She has striking blue eyes, she loves to be held and snuggle with anyone that will let her.

Maggie Puppy 10 Weeks Old Blue Merle Female Lethal White Australian Shepherd Illinois

Maggie Puppy 10 Weeks Old Blue Merle Female Lethal White Australian Shepherd Illinois

Maggie will stand her own with the big dogs in the house, loves to drag bones as big or some twice as big as she is. She loves to herd at the age of 8 years old, so be ready for all your cats to be rounded up in a hurry, or the kids in the neighborhood.

Maggie is being fostered in Bloomington Illinois. To adopt this soft, caring little girl, complete an application at Australian Shepherd Rescue Midwest. Reference ASRM 0020

Subiaco is a 10 week old blue merle Australian Shepherd male mix with solid black legs. Subiaco is a cuddler. Subiaco will sleep on your chest for his afternoon nap and likes to stay with close to his pack leader when out in the field. Subiaco is very friendly with all people he meets. Subiaco is the more dependent on people for companionship than his siblings are. Subiaco does like to play and roughhouse with his brothers. Subiaco is up to date on all his shots and is ready to land in someones home today!

NS 1015 Subiaco

NS 1015 Subiaco

Subiaco is located in Central Illinois. Complete an application at
New Spirit 4 Aussie Rescue. Reference NS 1015 Subiaco.

Stirling is a black tri Australian Shepherd male mix puppy. Stirling is the smallest of the boys. Stirling likes attention and kids. Stirling also loves to roughhouse with his brothers and is more of a homebody. Stirling will stay outside for a little while with his siblings then run back in to the air conditioning, with this summer who blames him? Stirling is up to date on all his shots and is ready to land in someones home today!

NS 1014 Stirling

NS 1014 Stirling

Stirling is located in Central Illinois. Complete an application at New Spirit 4 Aussie Rescue. Reference NS 1014 Stirling.

Kalgoorlieis is a 10 week old black tri Australian Shepherd Male Mix puppy. Kalgoorlieis is a big teddy bear at heart. Kalgoorlieis is very affectionate. When you walk up to Kalgoorlieis and start talking to him he gets all excited and wags his whole butt. He loves spending time with people but is also happy to go off and romp around in the field with his siblings. He is a little shy at first with new people but is soon in their laps giving kisses. Kalgoorlieis is up to date on all his shots and is ready to land in someones home today!

Kalgoorlieis is located in Central Illinois. Complete an application at
New Spirit 4 Aussie Rescue. Reference NS 1012 Kalgoorlieis. ]]> http://www.aussierescueil.com/ns-1012-kalgoorlieis-10-week-old-black-tri-australian-shepherd-male-mix-puppy-illinois/feed/ 0 http://www.aussierescueil.com/ns-1011-joondalup-10-week-old-blue-merle-male-australian-shepherd-mix-puppy-illinois/ http://www.aussierescueil.com/ns-1011-joondalup-10-week-old-blue-merle-male-australian-shepherd-mix-puppy-illinois/#comments Mon, 01 Aug 2011 23:11:43 +0000 David Thurman http://www.aussierescueil.com/?p=5018 Continue reading →]]> ADOPTED! Joondalup is a 10 week old blue merle Australian Shepherd male puppy. Joondalup is a confident pup who likes the attention of people but also likes to go exploring and be independent at times. Joondalup loves playing with his siblings and is friendly with everyone who visits him. Joondalup is up to date on all his shots and is ready to land in someones home today!

NS 1011 Joondalup

NS 1011 Joondalup

Joondalup is located in Central Illinois. Complete an application at
New Spirit 4 Aussie Rescue. Reference NS 1011 Joondalup.

Red Rock loves going on walks, he loves rides in the car, possibly his nirvana? He is great with other dogs and ignores cats and loves everyone he meets and thinks the dog park is just the bomb! He is house broken, treat motivated and has a great recall to his name (Rocky). Red Rock is also very velcro to whom ever he has decided is his leader.

[frame_left src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/NS-1028-Red-Rock-B-400x265.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/NS-1028-Red-Rock-B.jpg"]NS 1028 Red Rock[/frame_left]

He does have a few dislikes, don’t we all? He doesn’t enjoy the crate though he will go in when it’s required, he wants to be near a human. He is a little bit of a picky eater, and will turn his nose up to certain foods. He hasn’t mastered playing with toys but is all about pleasing you.

[frame_left src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/NS-1028-Red-Rock-A-400x265.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/NS-1028-Red-Rock-A.jpg"]NS 1028 Red Rock[/frame_left]

Red Rock is currently being fostered in Central Illinois. Complete an application at New Spirit 4 Aussie Rescue. Reference NS 1028.

Meet Bootsie, a older black tri Australian Shepherd we had helped rescue from an elderly person who was no longer able to care for her. Bootsie was excellent when I met her and she was all set and ready to jump into the back seat of my car, and rode excellent all the way to meet her new foster family.

Boostie is now ith the MARS rescue group, they specialize in mini Aussies and Bootsie is what I would consider a mini, she loves to play ball, chase frisbees and go for walks. When you first meet this lady you would think she won’t run to catch a treat but that is not the case, she is all action undert that exterior.

Wangaratta NS1018

He will come to vibration (we stomp our foot or clap loudly) and can also sit and down. He is so exceptionally smart, that I think he would out do Wanderoo if he wasn’t a little limited with the vision. He is also very laid back, mellow, and just a fluffy lover boy. I think he could definitely learn to follow your scent on a walk, and he is able to navigate a full flight of stairs with no problem. Because of his underdeveloped eyes, he might have to be watched in the sun, but other than that he is very healthy (and a terrific eater!).

NS 1018 Wangaretta

NS 1018 Wangaretta

He is the biggest of the bunch- a week ago he was 15.1 pounds. I really think given his personality and his smarts he will make a very, very good pet, so don’t count him out. Unlike most Aussies, he would likely do well in a small house or apartment. He spends lots of time sitting in my lap as I work on the computer- and that might become a problem when he reaches his full 45-50 pounds!

Special Needs/Lethal White Information

• Lethal Whites
• Yahoo Groups for Special Needs
• Amazing Aussies
• Living with Handicapped Pets
• Deaf Dog Activities
• Deaf Dogs
• Blind Dogs
• Lethal White Rescue (Yahoo Groups)

Wangaretta is being fostered in Central Illinois. Complete an application at New Spirit 4 Aussie Rescue. Reference NS 1018.

Wogonda is a very sweet and somewhat timid lethal white blue merle Australian Shepherd male. He has lots of blue merle spots, so he resembles his sister Wanderoo quite a bit, without the colored ear.  He has good vision in one eye and some vision in the other, and of course he is deaf.

He is very laid back, but will allow Wanderoo to lead him into trouble. Being timid, he tends to be quite vocal when out of his element or afraid- his howl is loud, but he is very quickly comforted with a quick hug or bet of reassurance. Even though he is timid, he is a very quick learner- again, he can come, sit and down already.  He would be best with a gentle older dog rather than another rambunctious dog, and a home that is not super active but somewhat active. , He would be a good dog to walk with and take around town. He seems to be a good candidate for riding in the car, and if it involves a stop at the Ice Cream shop, well all the better!

[frame_left src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Meany-or-Wodanga-NS1017-B-400x265.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Meany-or-Wodanga-NS1017-B.jpg"]NS 1017 Wogonda[/frame_left]

Special Needs/Lethal White Information
[star_list]

[/star_list]

[frame_left src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Meany-or-Wodanga-NS1017-400x300.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Meany-or-Wodanga-NS1017.jpg"]NS 1017 Wogonda[/frame_left]

He also LOVES to cuddle and is a great little puppy! His favorite position is on his back in your arms, as if you were cradling a baby. Wogonda is being fostered in Central Illinois. Complete an application at New Spirit 4 Aussie Rescue. Reference NS 1017.

Wanderoo is a lethal white blue merle female who will grow to around 45-50 pounds. She has a docked tail and is covered with blue merle markings.

She is deaf, but sees just fine. She has one black ear and lots of spots. She is as sweet as can be- loves to cuddle and lick your face and is just all sweetness. She is also exceptionally smart (will come, sit and down already). Because she is so smart, she tends to get herself into a bit of trouble- she likes to escape through the fence (and every time I think I have her outwitted she wins again!). The good news is she sticks around and doesn’t wander TOO much. She does seem to find each and every burr in the woods and get it into her fur. 

[frame_left src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Eenie-Wanderoo-NS120-400x300.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Eenie-Wanderoo-NS120.jpg"]NS 1020 Wanderoo[/frame_left]

[frame_left src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Eenie-Wanderoo-NS120-B-400x265.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Eenie-Wanderoo-NS120-B.jpg"]NS 1020 Wanderoo[/frame_left]

She can find any contraband in the house (electrical cords, etc.), and is maybe a little too adventuresome for her own good.

She is definitely the leader of the litter! She will be more active than the others. She would make a great agility or obedience dog.

Special Needs/Lethal White Information
[star_list]

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Wanderoo is currently being fostered in Central Illinois. Complete an application at New Spirit 4 Aussie Rescue. Reference NS 1020.

Please be aware that we already have a list of wonderful families on our waiting list for Aussie puppies, so feel free to apply, but be ready to know they may already have homes.

NS 0860 Rosalie Red Merle Australian Shepherd

Rosalie is a great companion, she loves attention and loves to roll on her back and get the most Aussome belly rubs, she is said to stay there all day awaiting them. Rosalie gets along well with everyone and other dogs. She would be best with a fenced in yard and another dog as a companion to help her know when to alert or to know that there is another living thing in her world, you see like many lethal whites, companionship is a very important item in their lives.

NS 0860 Rosalie Red Merle Australian Shepherd

Special Needs/Lethal White Information

• Lethal Whites
• Yahoo Groups for Special Needs
• Amazing Aussies
• Living with Handicapped Pets
• Deaf Dog Activities
• Deaf Dogs
• Blind Dogs
• Lethal White Rescue (Yahoo Groups)

NS 0860 Rosalie Red Merle Australian Shepherd

Meet Mildura, a 2 year old Australian Shepherd female. Mildura is a red trio and weighs around 45 pounds. Mildura is completely up to date on her shots and is house broken. When her foster family comes home from school or work, Mildura is always there to great them with squeals of delight and assume tail wags.

NS 0987 Mildura

Mildura loves a special stuffed toy, a stuffed cow and loves to play chase the flashlight. Mildura is tolerant of other dogs but would probably be best as an only dog, though with the right training and attention should do fine in a multi-dog home.

NS 0987 Mildura

Mildura loves car rides and to go for walks, she is learning not to pull on her leash and is crate trained. Mildura is like many Aussies that seem to develop a thunderphobia, she doesn’t bark, she just looks for her family to be near.

NS 0987 Mildura

To adopt Mildura, who calls Northern Illinois her home, complete an application at New Spirit 4 Aussie Rescue. Reference NS 0987

[frame_center src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Sarge-1-400x298.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Sarge-1.jpg"]NS 1004 Sarge[/frame_center]

[frame_center src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Sarge-2-400x298.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Sarge-2.jpg"]NS 1004 Sarge[/frame_center]

Sarge walks well on a leash and is housebroken, he is being taught to spend time in a crate which he is slowly learning to enjoy. Sarge rides well in a car and knows basic commands.

[frame_center src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Sarge-3-298x400.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Sarge-3.jpg"]NS 1004 Sarge[/frame_center]

If you want a smart Sarge in your command, then our Sarge is your Aussie. Complete an application to at New Spirit 4 Aussie Rescue. Reference NS 1004

[frame_center src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Moyne-Daphne-2-360x400.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Moyne-Daphne-2.jpg"]NS 1003 Moyne[/frame_center]

[frame_center src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Moyne-Daphne-3-400x306.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Moyne-Daphne-3.jpg"]NS 1003 Moyne[/frame_center]

Monye is housebroken, rides great in car and gets along with her other foster home siblings. She does like to chew and should be given a Nylabone to keep her busy. She walks good on a leash and knows basic commands.

[frame_center src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Moyne-Daphne-4-400x266.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Moyne-Daphne-4.jpg"]NS 1003 Moyne[/frame_center]

To meet Moyne, complete an application at New Spirit 4 Aussie Rescue today, reference NS 1003.

Cody Giving His Love

Cody was always shy of the camera and would turn his head or hide when he thought he was getting his picture taken, we thought he might have been a dog from a home in the witness protection program, but we did get pictures and he is a beautiful Australian Shepherd.

Cody On Squirrel Patrol

Over the weekend of the 8th of May, Cody began to not eat and was becoming lethargic, and having trouble breathing, within just 2 days the worst news of all came, he had cancer and it was impacting his lungs and ability to breath, sadly he passed away on the operating table and now were joy and happiness rained, is a large hole where his presence is no longer.

We all will miss this gentle man, and know he is waiting at the bridge to be reunited with Katie and her family.

[frame_center src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/IMAG0033-239x400.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/IMAG0033.jpeg"]NS 0983 Wagga Wagga[/frame_center]

Wagga Wagga is one of those perfect dogs, rides quietly in the car, walks excellent for a puppy on a leash and she gets along with everyone in the home, other dogs, the cat and the Guinea Pig, she will pounce on the cat, but all in good fun, she will always be tracking the cat but again to engage in play. She does try to heard the older female dog in the home, so her herd instincts are strong.

[frame_center src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/wagga-wagga-016-400x300.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/wagga-wagga-016.jpg"]NS 0983 Wagga Wagga[/frame_center]

We are told she has the softest fur they have encountered yet for a puppy and she will bark for a few minutes when crated for the night.

[frame_center src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/wagga-wagga-014-400x300.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/wagga-wagga-014.jpg"]NS 0983 Wagga Wagga[/frame_center]

To adopt Wagga Wagga, the beautiful black tri Australian Shepherd, complete an application at New Spirit 4 Aussie Rescue. Reference NS 0983.

[frame_center src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Pumpkin-Indiana-4-400x225.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Pumpkin-Indiana-4.jpg"]NS 0995 Pumpkin[/frame_center]

Now that Pumpkin is in a foster home, she is now returning to a happy, and content girl, who has years left to show love and affection to whom ever will allow her to finish her years content and happy.

[frame_center src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Pumpkin-2-400x221.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Pumpkin-2.jpeg"]NS 0995 Pumpkin[/frame_center]

Pumpkin walks perfect on a leash and LOVES to go for walks, tolerates other dogs, is good around children and will stay off furniture and the beds. She is afraid of thunderstorms and as such will try ti go under the bed, showing only her tail as proof she is around, but when you say her name, the tail becomes animated and shows her understanding you are there for her.

[frame_center src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Pumpkin-1-400x300.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Pumpkin-1.jpeg"]NS 0995 Pumpkin[/frame_center]
To adopt this special Pumpkin Pie treat, complete an application for this Blue Merle Australian Shepherd at New Spirit 4 Aussie Rescue. Reference NS 0995

Rocket is a 62 pound, 5 year old, black and white Border Collie. Though he is not an Aussie, Border Collies share many of the same traits (highly intelligent, trainable, etc.). He is completely housebroken with no accidents since he was a young pup. He has been crated in the past, but currently is gated in the back room of our house when he can’t be out and about.

[frame_center src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Face-400x300.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Face.jpg"]NS Private Rocket[/frame_center]

Rocket is an unusual Border Collie in that he isn’t high energy and he doesn’t require a lot of exercise. He enjoys playing fetch, but is equally content lying down near the humans. He is very trainable and learns commands quickly – usually within 20 minutes or so of repetition. Due to his size and minor hip dysplasia, he is not much of a jumper, so could not learn agility, but he retained most basic obedience commands learned in his training as a pup. He knows tricks such as “sit pretty” (sits on hind legs and puts front paws on your knees), “high five”, “say hello” (nose to hand), and “paw”. We give Rocket Cosequin for his hip and he seems to have no pain or problems whatsoever. He is neutered and incredibly healthy in all other respects with his shots updated every year.

[frame_center src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Smiling-400x300.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Smiling.jpg"]NS Private Rocket[/frame_center]

Rocket gets along fairly well with his 9 year old Border Collie/Austrailian Heeler sister, Darla. Unfortunately, he has started fights and had some resource issues in the past so cannot be left alone with her unwatched. He doesn’t actively seek companionship from Darla and would be happier in a home without other dogs or pets. We went to a trainer with expertise in Border Collies and she thought that he could be trained out of his dog/resource aggression.

[frame_center src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/RocketRight-400x316.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/RocketRight.jpg"]NS Private Rocket[/frame_center]

Rocket is very obedient in the yard and will come when called 99% of the time. With a little training, it could be 100%. He is very food motivated, and is very gentle when taking treats. True to his name, he has occasional fits of energy and runs around our yard like a rocket. Then he takes a nap in the sunshine. He would be very happy in a home with a fenced in yard where he can play fetch and run.

[frame_center src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/BicycleBoy-400x300.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/BicycleBoy.jpg"]NS Private Rocket[/frame_center]

Rocket is very good with new people when they are properly introduced. He is not fond of people who seem to be intruders. If he is in a yard, it should be secure from unannounced visitors and especially from children. Rocket does not seem to know what they are and is afraid of them. He showed fear of kids from the time we got him as a young pup. Since we didn’t have any young children at the time, or know any, we didn’t have an opportunity to acclimate him. We hoped that he would grow out of this fear, but we just don’t trust him with our 6 month old son and consequently have kept him in a separate part of the house unless we can give him our full attention or our son is in bed. This is unfair to Rocket, so we’ d really like to find a better home for him where he can be himself and be free to roam.

The best place for Rocket would be one with someone who is home most of the time and would like a companion. Rocket rarely barks and is generally a great guy to have around. He will play if you feel like it, but he won’t pester if you don’t. He generally just wants to be in the same room or close by to nap or roll on his back like a cat. We call him bicycle boy when he does this because his legs pump up and down like he is riding a bike.

Rocket is located in Chicago Illinois, but will travel by car within 4 hours distance for a good home. We expect him to lead a long and happy life with the right family. If you think you could be Rocket’s new best friend, please complete an application at New Spirit 4 Aussie Rescue, Reference Illinois Rocket.

Aunt Aussie

Dear Aunt Aussie,

My 5 month old male Aussie has been getting increasingly harder to control. He doesn’t come when he is called, he walks away when I’m trying to teach him and among other ill behaviors he is nipping at me and my children. I took him to a professional trainer and was told he is becoming dominant aggressive and in order to gain his respect I need to establish dominance. The trainer said that I need to lay him down, roll him over and pin him to the ground when he misbehaves. I’m not a trainer and in fact this is our first dog, but something just doesn’t sit right with this method for me. Is this the best way to establish dominance?

Signed,
Confused and concerned in Canton, OH

Dear Confused,
I wish I had a bone for every time I overheard a well meaning individual say “that dog thinks he’s an alpha and you need to get dominance over him, you need to do an alpha rollover – throw the dog down onto their backs to ensure that your dog will accept you as leader.” Way too often gaining dominance means getting physical and aggressive with your dog. While not all dogs respond aggressively to a physical assault, some can and will. The misdiagnosis of dominance aggression and the all too common bad advice about the “alpha rollover” does lead to trouble, lots of it, and sometimes the results can break your heart. A well socialized, healthy dog does not pin another dog to the ground. Submissive individuals initiate that posture themselves. This posture is a display signal from one animal to another, a signal of appeasement, not the result of a wrestling maneuver. Forcing dogs into submission and screaming into their faces is a great way to bring out defensive behavior. Performing the “alpha rollover” and the mandate to “Do it because I told you to, and if you don’t, I’ll hurt you” are archaic training methods getting left behind for the more humane positive reinforcement methods with an emphasis on compassion, communication and an appreciation of the dog’s perspective. Good communication and mutual respect are key for the success of any relationship. Now before you roll your eyes and think that Aunt Aussie has gone all love and peace, let me assure you these methods work. Dogs of today are opportunists and look at most situations as What’s in it for me? Most importantly most dogs will eat anytime, anywhere, so treat training is a win-win situation. Calm consistency is the method and treats are the reward. Even the most unwilling dog can be convinced with treats. Does it really matter why a dog does what you ask as long as he does it? Basic obedience and house manners can all be taught with treat rewards and eventually phased out if you feel the lure of treats should not be the only reason your dog obeys. While I can bet it’s not the only reason, it sure is a good one.
As for the nipping behavior, we are aussies and it is in our nature to herd things. Without any other outlet this behavior can become obsessive. Be sure your dog is getting enough focused exercise (long walks, jogs or a game of fetch) and include interactive toys for him to play with. Treat dispensing toys work wonders in tiring out our minds as well as bodies. Some of my favorites are a Kong, Linkables or Tug-A-Jug.
A happy aussie is both mentally and physically challenged as well as treated with consideration and respect. Put aside the thoughts of dominance and submission, instead ask for cooperation. Owning a dog should be a partnership, your dog will thank you for it.
Happy Training!
Aunt Aussie

May Aussome Facts

Sometimes they are called “Lethal” Whites because being born with vision or hearing impairment can be lethal to them. Although they may not have any other physical defects, many of these pups are killed at birth, dumped in shelters or by the side of the road where they can die lingering and painful deaths. Others are sold without informing the new owner that the pup is deaf and/or blind. Depending on the home they end up in, this can also lead to death.

May Aussome Facts

Sad to say, there are many animal lovers (like we were) unaware of what exactly a Double Merle means. It is information like the foregoing that prompted our adoption of a “Lethal” White. After we adopted our two “normal” Aussies, I still kept up with the postings on the website and noticed more lethal whites appearing. So we did our research and we were rudely awakened to another area hit by man’s greed and irresponsibility. After realizing there were so many homeless lethal whites, we started looking for a deaf lethal white that would fit into our family. We met one young lady that was just wonderful and we would have taken her home; however, at the time we had an older lady that wasn’t having anything to do with another female in her home. So the hunt was on for a male, and after a short time Jack (aka Ace) appeared on the website. We set up a meeting and took our two current Aussies along. Jack received their paws of approval.

Training Jack has been more of an issue for me than for Doug. My feeling sorry for him (I believe) was a detriment to my ability to communicate with, and control Jack. After recommendations from Doug, emailing David and other sources for suggestions, I have become calmer with him, more firm when needed, and he is watching and responding to my hand commands. Patience and diligence in training are the keys to success. Having a “normal” Aussie (or two) has been a big help to Jack (and us) to learn the house routine; he has picked Parker to be his primary buddy.

A common concern for many is a deaf dog will startle when awakened suddenly. From the start, we have been very lucky with Jack. When he was a puppy I loved to gently touch his face and watch him wake up like a little kid. We would have to carry him down the stairs at first until he caught on to the routine, because all he wanted to do was go back to bed — this was an interesting training issue. Now we tap our foot on the floor to wake him up and he jumps up and goes down the stairs shoulder-to-shoulder with Parker.

We have also learned that Jack shows no fear. Because he cannot hear the warning growls from our other 2 dogs or the hisses from our cats, he sometimes boldly goes where he shouldn’t — and has some minor battle scars to prove it. When we can, we try to help him and the cats, in particular, as he wants to play but they don’t.

We have found that Jack’s training is only limited by our imagination and creativity to find ways to communicate. Jack is helping us learn a new language (sign) and he is helping me realize he can learn as well as a hearing dog, just differently. We both continue to talk to him, just like we do with Pete and Parker. Our facial expressions also communicate what is going on. We use our own hand signals, plus those from the American Sign Language book. Communication for dogs has always been far beyond sound; our deaf dog causes us to embrace that fact.

Unfortunately, it’s not only pups with “excess” white that are killed at birth. The Australian Shepherd breed standard does not require dogs to have any white at all. Regardless, some breeders (unfortunately) feel pups with little to no white are not marketable and will kill them. Solid black males fall victim to this most often, even though their color is acceptable. In some breeds, certain colors or patterns are not permitted by the breed standard. The reasons are not always logical; particularly to the layman (especially since the colors may be allowed in other breeds, and often have no adverse health consequences for the dog).

Doug and I look into Jack’s crystal blue eyes and wonder, how could anyone consider destroying such a beautiful creature. Captain Jack has grown into a smart, beautiful, loving, big character. Remember, the only disability deaf dogs have is their hearing, not their mental capacity to learn, and certainly not their ability to love you unconditionally. Raising a well-adjusted deaf dog can be a noble and rewarding experience.

May Aussie of the Month Sophie

Sophie’s lack of socialization as a pup had left her suspicious and fearful when encountering strangers and new situations. She also has low vision, which is not correctable, but should not get worse, and does not impede her as she navigates her world. It does however impact how quickly she is able to process information in her environment. After a long, slow introduction in her foster home, and lots of bacon, (thankfully, Sophie is food motivated like me), she has become a loving, affectionate, and attentive companion.  She is ‘velcro’ and snuggly and loves to go for walks. She is always carrying a stuffed animal around in her mouth hoping to engage the other dogs in her foster home in play.

May Aussie of the Month Sophie

Sophie is devoted to and protective of her family, and because of this, we are looking for an adult-only home for her, one lacking in drama, with a separate room for her to go and hang out in while guests are visiting.  Another Aussie for her to romp and play with, would be wonderful. We are requiring a physical fence to keep her safe.  Although she is young, only 14 months old, she is exceedingly well behaved in our home and doesn’t counter surf or tip over the garbage. She is 100% housetrained and completely trustworthy not being crated and knows how to sit, come when called, and rides quietly in the car.

Sophie is hoping you understand that new people and experiences will probably always make her uncomfortable and worried.  She, like each of us in our own ways, is flawed. But also like each of us, hopes there is someone out there willing to love her in spite of her herself.
Blessings, Susan and Sophie

Sherry with Toby - May Volunteer of the Month

Sherry devotes much of her time and energy to the rescue daily as a foster mom to Holly (Holland). Holly has been with Sherry and her family for nearly a year now minus a few months and I know that each and every one of her family loves Holly dearly, but do hope to find a permanent home for Holly soon.

Sherry started working with New Spirit just about a year ago, following David Thurman from another rescue. He made an immediate impression on Sherry, and she knew that she wanted to work with someone who had such a love for the dogs.

Sherry has set up many fundraising events over the past year as well, the largest being a booth at the 3 day Scarecrow Festival last October in St Charles, IL. Her whole family showed up each morning to set up the booth, and donated most of their weekend to the festival. Sherry also currently sets up and runs weekend events at her local Petco, and recently received a $1,000 grant from Petco for New Spirit. Sherry has also devoted many hours to transporting fosters from points A to B in the Northern Illinois area.

Many fosters have come through the McInerney door, some staying days, weeks or months and each has been loved by all. Each time a foster is adopted, Sherry feels like a proud mom and knows that even if though it is difficult to let the dog go, she has done her job and saved a life. Many tears have been shed for her fosters and I have even shared in her tears when Holly came close to being adopted last fall.

But as those of us who foster know, the tears are worth it when you see that new family’s eyes light up at the sight of their new furry friend and the furious wag of the tail as your foster finds his new home.

Please join me in saying “Thank You” to Sherry and her family for all of the love, support and time that they have graciously given to New Spirit and it’s fosters.

[frame_center src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/ponchodown-400x300.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/ponchodown.jpeg"]NS 0982 Poncho[/frame_center]

Tri-Shark Triathlon – Saturday , June 4

8 am start time
sprint distance: 600 yard swim/13 mile bike/5k run
700 participants and an estimated 500 spectators and volunteers

Comlara County Park/Evergreen Lake, Hudson, IL

[frame_center src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Milo-05-400x267.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Milo-05.jpg"]NS 0923 Milo[/frame_center]

Milo gets along great with other dogs, in fact he is in a home with 3-4 other foster brothers. Milo is learning the leash and what it means to ride in the car. He is a good greeter and is a quick learner.

[frame_center src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Milo-07-400x266.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Milo-07.jpg"]NS 0923 Milo[/frame_center]

Since Milo is a pup at heart and age, he is in that chewing and getting into mischief phase and will need a home that understands the needs and energy of a puppy. But once Milo is past all that and has taken his obedience classes and worn out, he will be your typical, velcro Aussie.

[frame_center src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Milo-06-400x266.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Milo-06.jpg"]NS 0923 Milo[/frame_center]

To adopt this 6 month old red merle who calls Central Illinois home, complete an application at New Spirit 4 Aussie Rescue today. Reference NS 0923

Meet Seir, a 1 year old blue merle lethal white female, who weighs around 15 pounds. Seir still has a beautiful full, flowing tail. Seir gets along well with other dogs and once she has settled in will play and run.

Seir 1 Year Old Mini

Seir will need time to warm up at first, as she was used as a breeder dog, and since she didn’t work out, was on the list to go away, we ended up with her and she needs to learn to trust us humans again.

Seir 1 Year Old Mini

Seir is deaf, and is slowly learning hand signals and is also housebroken, walks on a leash and is awaiting a great home.

Seir 1 Year Old Mini

Seir is currently being fostered in Pekin Illinois. Complete an application at New Spirit. Reference NS 0971

[frame_center src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Scrappy-01-400x265.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Scrappy-01.jpg"]NS 0958 Scrapper[/frame_center]

[frame_center src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Scrappy-11-400x265.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Scrappy-11.jpg"]NS 0958 Scrapper[/frame_center]

Scrapper walks well on a leash, but he has excellent recall and is always walking along side of his foster family and his foster pack. He rides well in a car, and loves to play with other dogs, gets along with the foster cat and seems to be a very well rounded young man.

[frame_center src="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Scrappy-06-400x271.jpg" href="http://www.aussierescueil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Scrappy-06.jpg"]NS 0958 Scrapper[/frame_center]

Scrapper is currently being fostered in Bloomington Illinois. Complete an application at New Spirit. Reference NS 0958