About Balto

Few things wound us as deeply as the sight of a magnificent and powerful dog, diminished by lackluster owners. Our beautiful German Shepherd, Balto, found himself in a jam, after his owners abandoned him to NYCACC. He arrived during a string of OMG Nor'Easters, and the wistful expression in his eyes reminded us of Marlon Brando's great quote in On The Waterfront, 'I coulda been a contender!' Indeed, Balto could have been a noble service dog, a search and rescue hero, or even a fearless bomb sniffer, but his owners were at a loss to develop his magnificent potential. Instead they made him a couch potato, left him under exercised and under stimulated which led to understandable anxiety. An unemployed Herding dog without a purpose can be one of the most verklempt creatures on the planet! When Balto arrived, he seemed alarmed at his new surroundings, and he struck us as a jittery soul, wondering what fate had in store for him. Immediately, his anxiety got the better of him, and he began to chew his tail. We were able to redirect that anxious behavior into more productive activity, and Balto has blossomed beautifully. Now he is ready to live his best life alongside a human companion who can provide the strength of leadership and training that he has missed up until now. Balto is typical German Shepherd, and has the classic black and tan short coat with saddle bag markings. He is petite for breed standard, weighing just 70 pounds. He is a bit underweight, after a bout of intestinal parasites, and could easily carry another 10 pounds. We recommend that he maintain a lean physique for optimal health. He is on a high protein, grain free diet, with omega fats added. Balto is an amazing dog, who exhibits the loyal, protective and extremely intelligent nature that is characteristic of the breed. He's a dog who needs sufficient exercise and mental stimulation to feel at peace with the world. He would be the ideal companion for an active couple, single, or a retiree, who can spend a lot of time with him. Balto craves human connection and bonds deeply. He's not a good candidate for a family dog: frantic young children and cats might try his patience. The best fit for Balto would be a quiet, yet active home, with folks who love to spend time outdoors. Balto has responded beautifully to his training regimen, and he seems to find great comfort and purpose in the work. He now knows all his obedience commands. He now heels nicely and pays close attention to his handler, looking for direction. Balto loves the training regimen, and can easily move forward, in the hands of motivated adopters, to earn his Canine Good Citizenship certification, and beyond. Balto is in excellent health, and is neutered. He is vaccinated for Rabies, Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parvo, Parainfluenza and Coronavirus. He has been dewormed, and has tested negative for heartworm, lyme, earlichia and anaplasmosis. If you are interested in Balto, please write to [email protected], or call/text Denise at cell: 860-908-9738 for an adoption application.

Windham County
Canterbury, Connecticut