We got an update from Zeus’ new owners:

Zeus (who we’re calling Marley now) is settled in and bonding well with my wife and I. He loves to have his belly scratched, and charms everyone he meets. After a walk or run he’s usually happy to sack out in his pet bed, though we’ve gotten him to play with some stuffed toys. He loves the park, and has seen most of our neighborhood by now.

Posted on May 30th, 2008 by michele m
Filed under: Zeus | 1 Comment »

Zeus is a male cream Shiba who is around 25 lbs. He was given to us when his owner was deployed overseas by the military and there was nowhere else for Zeus to go.

Foster Mom Angela says:

Zeus is extremely shy when he’s in a new surrounding, but shows no aggression whatsoever. He is very loving and playful when he gets to know you. He is relaxed at most times. He gets excited when you come home. He barely barks or makes a sound, and is very agreeable, not stubborn like many Shibas. Zeus might bark once if he hears someone in the hallway or when he wants to go outside he will start whining. This is rare.

On walks he is a bit more perky. Zeus does well on leash and he will perk up when he sees animals and will try to chase them, but to a controllable degree. Zeus does not interact with other dogs, he keeps to himself, but when he sees dogs on the streets, he doesn’t act aggressive, he just remains stationary and shy. Zeus likes humans more than dogs as he likes to be petted, and doesn’t mind being petted by strange children. When Zeus gets nervous he freezes up or shakes. When we are at the park and he gets nervous he hides behind us or just stands there.

Zeus is initially aloof and nervous but has become very attached to his caretaker. He likes to be scratched and will thus, always try to be at your side. He is curious at times, but less than other Shibas I have met. After he gets to know you, he will always like to be in the same room as you. He goes into his crate occasionally, more so now than when he first arrived, it’s like his comfort zone. Now he sleeps on my couch.

Zeus behaves well alone, and has been left alone for up to 8 hours on end and has been fine. Zeus doesn’t have much interest in toys, he likes to chew on his bone, but rarely.

Overall, Zeus is delightful to be around, loves new people and wins people’s hearts over with his shy and harmless demeanor. He can be social (with people), but will not initiate play. I think he would be OK with other dogs and children. He seems to do well in my apartment, so he could manage in small spaces.

Posted on April 20th, 2008 by michele m
Filed under: Zeus | No Comments »