I want to share Roy’s story, but it’s complicated. Roy is our latest foster dog. He’s been with us for about six weeks. He came to us bleeding, just a few days after having his front right leg amputated after a gunshot wound. He was scared, in pain, and still needing more medical care. We held him and slept with him for days as his bleeding finally stopped and he started to heal. Still, he was on medicine and follow-up care for another 10 days. During that time, a bond developed between Roy and us. I’ve had dogs almost all my life. We have two wonderful, loving dogs now, both rescues. But no dog has loved me and been devoted to me like Roy. And he adores Susan. He’s also a deeply sensitive dog. He wants to please and he gives us those sad, deep brown eyes when corrected.

Remember I said, “It’s complicated.” Well, Roy at times has also been the most aggressive dog I’ve ever been around. Again, not to us. With us, he’s a puppy dog. But he’s shown aggressive behavior to our standard poodle mix, Dino, and to visitors to our home. When he decides to strike, it’s like a cobra. No warning. Quiet and lightning-fast. 

With us, he cuddles. He kisses. He plays fetch. He does well on the leash. And we’ve made progress with crate training, “stay,” and reducing separation anxiety. He’s smart, food motivated, and has the capacity to learn more. But his aggression may not be something that can be trained away. It may have to be managed. That’s why currently we’re also working on muzzle training. 

It may be that Roy sees Susan and me as the people who pulled the thorn from his paw. Regardless, his devotion to us is touching and our love for him is deep. We’re not giving up on Roy. But he also can’t stay with us indefinitely. 

Roy needs a special owner. Likely someone who lives alone, or possibly just the right couple, with no children, and no other dogs or cats. Someone who will show him patience and affection, but will also be firm in continuing to train him and manage his potential for sudden aggression. Susan and I believe that person is out there. We just need to find them and connect them to Roy.

When we do say goodbye to Roy, I will cry hard and long. My hope is that these tears will be a mix of sadness and joy. Sadness, at watching this amazing indomitable dog leaves our lives, and joy because we’ve found that special person who will care for Roy and enjoy his companionship for many years. Even when we say “goodbye” to Roy, it will be complicated.