harvey

Harvey (aka "Little Dude") resembles a ripe peach. He is sweet, fuzzy, orange, and sort of round. He is a great companion: quiet, charming, and handsome. He has one wonky ear that points sideways, while the other points up.

Harvey is an excellent car buddy, settling himself quietly on his booster seat and paying close attention to be sure that his human is following the GPS and driving safely. He is happy to snooze on a dog bed while his human works, watches TV, or sleeps. During meals, he stands quietly, not begging but just hoping for a lucky piece of chicken to fall.

Harvey gets along with other dogs and does not try to steal anyone else's food or guard his own. He is curious about cats but not aggressive. When a cat rudely swats him in the face, he does not respond in kind, but cries for help from the nearest human.

Harvey likes receiving pets and scratches and will respond with gentle kisses. He likes to have some lap time every day, but he isn't demanding about it. Five minutes or so at a time is sufficient. He is generally a quiet dog but occasionally will have something to say (we're not sure about what). He will sometimes wake himself up barking or growling, look confused, and then go back to sleep quietly. Harvey would be happiest in a home where he isn't left alone for long periods of time.

He has interesting taste in food. He likes chicken, salmon, cherries, cheddar, and muenster cheese. He does not like provolone or cream cheese, pill pockets, peanut butter, or liverwurst. He believes that all meals should take place at night. Treats may happen all day long, but if the treat might possibly be hiding a pill, it's a hard pass.

In terms of housetraining, he seems to understand that, in a perfect world, pottying should take place outside. That said, if no one is home (or not paying attention), he will do what he needs to do, and he won't necessarily communicate his needs in advance. Fortunately, he is potty pad trained (with excellent aim) and accepting of wearing belly bands when needed. He benefits from a regular schedule of potty breaks every few hours during the day and at least once in the night. Following a good walk, he will typically not need a potty break for 4 hours or so. Sometimes on his backyard potty breaks, he is more interested in sniffing the breeze than relieving himself.

Harvey enjoys slow walks or sniffaris around the backyard (except in the rain). He likes to stand still and listen to the birds. He appears to have passing familiarity with commands such as come/let's go/follow me, as well as leave it, settle, and no. That doesn't mean he will necessarily obey promptly, but at least he knows what you're trying to say.

Harvey has an enlarged heart and a heart murmur which will require ongoing medication and periodic vet visits. He has a bit of a related cough, for which he also takes medication, which seems to help.

Harvey has cataracts that render him mostly blind. He does not let that stop him from getting around. He wanders confidently around the house, on leash, and in the yard. He is very good about following a voice to get around and also enjoys exploring on his own. He can go up a small number of stairs and the curb but would prefer to have help going down.

Harvey is a delight to have around. If you're looking for a quiet, orange shadow, come meet him soon!

Harvey is approx 10 years old and 11 lbs.
Fostered in Falls Church, VA.
Please apply at mirishaven.org.