Sage

Sage is an approximately 3 year old, 45 pound Labrador Retriever and Standard Poodle mix who has come an incredibly long way, but she is not a typical adoption dog.

PLEASE READ BEFORE APPLYING:

Sage is a semi feral, extremely fearful dog and an extreme flight risk. She is not comfortable with strangers, sudden movements, unfamiliar environments, loud noises or the unpredictable activity of the outside world. While she has made incredible progress, her fear of people remains significant, and she needs an adopter who truly understands what that means.

Sage needs a very specific kind of home.

She needs a quiet, predictable home with no young children she wouldn't harm them but they are SUPER SCARY. Children and their sudden movements, noises, and activity are frightening to Sage, so a home with young children would not be appropriate for her.

Sage is also not a dog who can safely go on walks, hikes, dog parks, outings, or adventures. Her flight risk is extreme. This is not an exaggeration. Even after her spay surgery, Sage escaped from her veterinarian's office when her kennel was opened and immediately bolted. Because of this, her safety must be taken extremely seriously.

Her ideal home will have a secure, fully enclosed backyard where she can enjoy life without being put in situations that frighten her. She does not need a busy social life or a calendar full of adventures. Her adventures can happen right at home, where she feels safe.

And if you have a pool, Sage will think she has hit the jackpot! ‍♀️ She absolutely loves to swim and would happily spend hours swimming, playing fetch, and enjoying her backyard. A pool is not required, but it would be an incredible bonus for this special girl.

Sage also absolutely loves other dogs, and we strongly believe she needs a confident, well adjusted canine companion in her forever home. Another dog can provide her with security, companionship, and an example of how to navigate the world. We are looking for a home where she can have a dog friend who will help her continue becoming more confident.

Sage does not need someone who wants to take her everywhere. She needs someone who is perfectly happy letting her stay home.

She needs someone who understands that earning her trust may take time. Someone who will not force affection, rush her, or expect her to eventually become a social butterfly. Someone who can celebrate the tiny victories that most people might never notice: a tail wag, a playful zoomie, choosing to stay nearby, taking a treat, coming closer on her own, or simply feeling safe enough to relax.

And when Sage feels safe, her silly personality starts to come out.

We're seeing more and more of the goofy girl underneath all that fear, from harmless kitchen "shopping" to playful zoomies and curious little moments that show us she is finally learning what it means to just be a dog.

There isn't a mean bone in Sage's body. Her challenge is fear, not aggression.

Sage doesn't need someone to fix her.

She needs someone who will accept her exactly as she is, protect her from the things that terrify her, and give her the freedom to grow at her own pace.

Sage is looking for a very specific adopter, and we know that person is out there.

If you are looking for a dog who can accompany you everywhere, go for walks and hikes, meet new people, attend outings, or easily adapt to a busy household, Sage is not the dog for you.

But if you are looking for a deeply rewarding relationship with a special dog whose trust must be earned, if you have a calm and secure home, a confident canine companion, and the patience to let Sage become comfortable on her own terms, you may be exactly the person she has been waiting for. ❤️

If you are interested in adopting, please visit the I.C.A.R.E. Dog Rescue website and complete an adoption application: www.icaredogrescue.org/ready-to-adopt

Adoption fee includes: spay/neuter • shots up to date • micro-chip • fecal and vet check

Breeds and age are not guaranteed.