About Austen

Hello all! My name is Austen and I'm looking for a very special person who'll offer me a forever home. Not much is known about my background because I was found in a park in Bangor, Maine and brought to the local shelter. I didn't like it there, so they asked Australian Shepherds Furever if they could take me. I am neutered, have my shots, and everyone's best guesstimate is that I'm 5-6 years old. But you'd never know it because I'm a very energetic guy who likes zoomies with a female doggie friend about my size. I'm on the small side for an Aussie, but pretty strong for my size. I LOVE to hike in the woods and go exploring all the smells and sights. I can hike on my long leash all day! I also like to ride in the car... especially if it involves fast food like chicken nuggets or hot dogs when I'm a good boy. Now here's the 'special' part. I'm not very trusting. Must be my lousy previous life. My foster mom says I'm the most independent Aussie she's ever seen. I like who I like. I trust who I trust. And mostly that is women. I don't like strange people reaching for me. And I'll let them know they need to back off and give me a chance to decide if they are trustworthy. Just ignore me and I'll figure it out for myself. Don't tell me do stuff. Just ask me nicely. I'll probably be happy to cooperate... especially if it involves hot dog bits. I think I could be someone's partner if they have a patience to work with me. I can happily be on my own in my crate. If you work 8 hours, not a problem. I don't bark a lot. I do react to cars if we're walking along the road. But I'm working on that with my foster mom. I'm not much of a cuddler, but I do like it when my person is around and lets me sit quietly next to them. I wouldn't mind a doggie sister to keep me company and to play with. My ideal home would be in a rural area with lots of walking and hiking trails to explore. I'd like one or two ladies to adopt me. If one was retired and around a lot to go hiking, I'd really love that. I'd like a quiet household without a ton of visitors and new people coming and going all the time. I HATE CATS! (I was attacked by a huge Maine Coon Cat which didn't end well for anyone.) Older girls also might be OK in the household. I'm being fostered near Bangor, Maine. And will probably require more than one meet & greet. So that's going to limit my possibilities I know. But I'm going to know 'MY' person when I meet them. My foster mom has said she'll trust me to do the picking! I just know I'll be a great companion when I find the right person. Only experienced Aussie people will be considered who have the time and patience to continue to work with Austen to build trust and confidence. If you think you are up to the challenge of this handsome boy with a mind of his own, please submit an application: https://www.australianshepherdsfurever.org/adoption-application Veterinarian and 3 personal, non-family references are required and will be checked. We will also ask for photographs or videos of your home and yard. All fees are used to rescue more at-risk Aussies and pay their medical expenses.

Contact

Piscataquis County
Atkinson, Maine 04426

Contact Person:

Australian Shepherds Furever

Email