About Opie (west)

Hi, my name is OPIE - ID#A4421207. I am a neutered male, white and brindle American Pit Bull Terrier. The shelter staff think I am about 2 years and 2 months old, and I have been at the shelter since May 24, 2020. Opie is one of those dogs who just can't cope well with shelter life. He needs an experienced handler who can give him time to decompress and is willing to work with him if he needs some extra guidance to be successful. OPIE is a great dog, but needs some help. Opie was pretty beat up when he arrived at the shelter, and was also sick. He has since healed from his injuries, and recovered from a cold. He has apparently always been a street dog, and it will take time to train him. Here are some recent notes from staff about Opie: 7/4/2020 OBSERVATION Canine has started to show signs of deterioration with leash level; placing on daily enrichment and marking as needs out daily. 7/13/2020 OBSERVATION High arousal in kennel; constantly barking and jumping while in adjacent yard. when pulling canine was aroused, slightly difficult to leash due to movement, once out settled, on return to kennel attempting to redirect on leash while walking to his kennel. 7/17/2020 OBSERVATION High arousal in kennel, pulled dog for meet/greet with a man and his older (teenager) son; strong puller on leash; initially growled on first approach to two customers, exited, explored, high arousal; eventually started to settle on leash, approached to take treats, eventually each customer was able walk dog in yard on leash; at one point, dog jumped up, repeatedly grabbed as leash, but settled when modified harness used; customers were able to pet, interact with dog. Opie is showing signs of kennel deterioration. This happens to all social animals eventually when they have been incarcerated for long periods of time. They need social interaction whether with other dogs or people. Unless Opie is adopted this week, he will face euthanasia. 'URGENT' If you have no breed restrictions, please call ASAP = 520-800-4633 PLEASE NOTE: You must have an appointment to go to shelter to meet this dog. With the COVID-19 situation continually changing, we are currently only scheduling appointments about two weeks in advance. Although your preferred date and time slot may not be available right now, we are constantly receiving cancellations and attempting to update the sign-up list as frequently as possible. Please check the sign-up link often as availability changes throughout the day. Thank you for your patience and understanding. Please make an appointment by clicking on this link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050d45afae29a1fb6-mcacc After doing this you will: 1. Get paired with an Adoption Counselor at your appointment time. 2. Meet the pet of your dreams. 3. Complete the adoption paperwork. 4. Go home with your new best friend!

Maricopa County
Phoenix, Arizona 85009