
"Harpo, Chico & Groucho"
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RED & WHITE BORDER COLLIE/GOLDEN RETRIEVER BOYS (PA)
"Harpo, Chico & Groucho" were rescued at 8 weeks from a horrible kill shelter. They were supposed to be purebred border collies, at least their mother was. Now that they've grown up and after consulting with many BC people, based on their broader faces, physique and exceptional coats, they are most likely part Golden Retriever. Since those are considered to be the two most intelligent breeds, that is certainly a nice mix! It also means they are less high strung than some BC's, although they are still very active dogs. They would be good flyball or agility candidates, and great for active owners.
They are extremely healthy, fit young dogs (now just over 11 mos. old), current on shots, heartworm negative, and will be neutered at placement (or pre-arrangements may be made with an adopter's veterinarian). After we took them, they immediately came down with parvo - no after effects, of course, and probably they now have lifelong immunity.
Groucho is a bit shy with strangers at first and quiet, Harpo is nearly his twin in looks and personality but a bit more outgoing, and Chico, beside having the most outstanding coat, is the most impish and inquisitive of the three (the ringleader). They were raised with numerous other dogs and cats (they'll chase cats that run, but won't hurt them, and will play with or ignore cats who show no fear of dogs).
They've spent most of their life with us on an enclosed porch with free access to a fenced yard. Rather than that making housebreaking more difficult, I think they have a strong preference for going outdoors. When we bring them in the house, they want right back outside, but that's only a "group" thing. After they are separated they are going to be very responsive to training and will quickly adapt to the new owner's lifestyle.
These boys are VERY social. They would be miserable individually with a working couple where there is no other dog for companionship. They are also strong and rowdy and I wouldn't place them where there are under school age children unless the parents are experienced dog owners and know how to bring up pups and kids together. A fenced yard is required and obedience training is STRONGLY recommended.
These boys have a lot of pep and spunk, need exercise, and I wouldn't recommend them for timid, inexperienced or "lazy" owners. I don't want to scare anybody away, but if you know BC's or Golden Retrievers, you'll understand what I mean.
As particular as we are about the boys going to the right homes, there may be some urgency because we could be moving overseas, probably not before Sept. References will be checked, a homecheck where possible, an adoption contract - all the usual. We're not insisting on a particular adoption "fee," but would appreciate a donation (we've spent a small fortune on these boys) - the priority is getting them to the right homes!
The best way to contact us is by e-mail. Our home phone is (724) 587-0347 and we screen out telemarketers, so leave a message (and we're often outside with the dogs). Good times to reach us by phone are usually 7:30-8:30 a.m. and 7:00-8:30 p.m. We're in PA, 40 miles southwest of Pittsburgh.
Note: Harpo & Groucho are inseparable and must be placed together.
Jim Willis & Nicole Valentin
Willis/Tiergarten Sanctuary Trust
(724) 587-0347
Pennsylvania
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