About Roux

Roux originally belonged to one of my clients. They did not get to know her before buying her off Craig's list. I am a dog walker, and had taken care of their cat before. When they got Roux, they asked me over to see if I could help her with her fear, and maybe get her to eat. It took several months, before I could even pet her. She was just terrified, of everything. Her people told me she was very attached to them, especially the woman. I saw the woman hitting her, and both of them increasingly impatient with her fear. They wanted to have a big, friendly dog, and a social life. Even then, Roux would be terrified and fearful, (starting to manifest as aggression), and scare people off. I couldn't get her to walk past the parking lot of the building. Fast forward a few months, and several trainers who say they can't help her. Roux's people decide to euthanize her. I get them to surrender her to me. I sure she was glad to get away from being swatted. I can't get her to be less aggressive, but she seems to like other dogs. And she'll run and play on the levee near my house. She's good with my dog. I'm giving her lots of love, good food, and vet care. Still, she is terrified of people, and frightens them. My brother lived on some acres in the middle of nowhere in Texas, and he agreed to take Roux. I figured not being around people in the city would help her, since there was no changing her. Roux became very attached to my brother's wife. Then, my brother died. Long story short, my brother's widow sells the property and goes on a binge, moving to New Orleans and landing on my doorstep. Roux is even more aggressive, tries to attack me for a few days, and cannot be around my dog. They used to get along all right! Once Roux figures out that she knows me, we get along fine. Which brings me to today. Roux is very aggressive towards other dogs, not just mine. She snarls and snaps at every person she sees. I can't have another person in the house at all. Not for repairs, household help, not socially. Roux has become increasingly possessive of me. I give her all the love and attention I have to give. I walk her on the levee very early in the morning so she gets to run, get fresh air and sunshine. My dog is elderly, and it is to her I owe this time and attention. I also feel increasingly impatient with Roux, but try to hide it. I would never, ever hurt her. I just can't live like this. My former sister-in-law is not responsible enough to have Roux. I have 'ownership' papers from the previous owner's surrender. Roux sleeps a lot. She does not destroy architecture, or anything else. She's a great cuddler, and deep down, just a lovely girl. I live in three rooms. Roux has to be kept separate from my dog. You can imagine the acrobatics I have to go through to keep everyone safe. I am at a loss. I don't know what to do, or where to turn. Is there anyone out there who can help? I have 200.00 listed as the cost to adopt her, but I would waive that fee if a home with a great deal of tolerance and dog behavior know-how can take her.

Orleans Parish
New Orleans, Louisiana