Gabe in Rogersville, MO

Meet Gabe! Gabe is a sweet-natured, quiet dog who came to Cavalier Rescue USA through another rescue organization. They were at capacity, and asked Cavilier Rescue USA to help out. And, of course, we said “Yes!”

Gabe is a twelve-year-old senior pup, born on November 23, 2012. He enjoys hanging out with his foster Mom and Cavalier housemates. Most days, Gabe is relaxing on a blanket and dozing the day away. Although Gabe’s hearing is fine, he is a quiet gentleman who does not bark at doorbells, TV, strangers or loud noises. He is shy of newcomers, but will greet them timidly. As someone approaches, Gabe may shy away or respectfully lie down. He does not rush to greet people or jump up on anyone. Once acquainted, Gabe is friendly and willingly lets people pet his face, ears and neck. He enjoys taking treats and eagerly approaches if a tasty morsel is offered. However, he does exhibit some of his shyness and skittish behavior.

Gabe knows his name and will come when called. He walks politely on a leash and enjoys going outside for a stroll. Nevertheless, Gabe is content to return home and resume his place on his pillow. Gabe is working on obedience commands, such as “sit,” “down,” and “stay.” He sleeps in a crate at night, and will signal by pawing if he needs to go outside. If the time is pre-dawn, Gabe goes back to sleep either in his crate, or on his foster Mom’s bed. However, Gabe’s preference would be on the bed. Gabe is not a snuggler, but does enjoy being close.

Gabe occasionally shows interest in toys, and will play tug-of-war with his Cavalier housemates. He does, however, enjoy chewing on bones and especially likes a bone with peanut butter on it. He has a healthy food drive, which will help in transitioning Gabe to a forever home.

Gabe does very well on scheduled potty breaks. He had a few accidents in the house when he initially arrived. Now that he has adjusted to the household routine, he is reliable. Potty breaks should be every three to four hours to ensure Gabe remains accident-free.

Gabe does have one concerning health issue. He has a grade 4-5 heart murmur, which is unfortunately common in Cavaliers. Gabe takes two medications with meals for his heart. However, he does not show any signs or symptoms of heart problems such as shortness of breath or coughing.

When Gabe first came to foster care, he had significant gingivitis and dental disease. Subsequently, Gabe had a dental cleaning and a few back teeth removed. Since the procedure, Gabe has good dental health, and can now chew his food without pain.

Since his first days in foster care, Gabe has overcome his initial fears. Gabe loves treats, and licks cheese or peanut butter from his foster Mom’s fingers. He plays with his Cavalier housemates and enjoys walks.

Although Gabe has improved, he remains cautious with people, and tends to avoids touch. He has not shown any aggression or possessiveness while in his foster home. He is an intelligent boy, learns quickly, and has a strong food drive, which makes adjusting to his forever home easier. Time and patience are essential to Gabe’s progress and future success with new experiences.

Gabe will make an ideal companion for a family with the time and patience to work with Gabe on his people skills, manners and basic obedience. He will do best in a home with established routines and another easy-going, mature dog.

If you can provide Gabe with a loving, forever home, please fill out our online application (if you haven’t already.)  Then email Sarah Noebels at cavalierrescuesarah@gmail.com to let her know you are interested in Gabe.
Online Application