Name: Gonzo - approx. 4 1/2 y/o
How long has Gonzo been in the family? Spring of 2013
Family Members: Kelli & Jax- 11 y/o Shepherd- mix. I lost my beloved Bodie (Am Staff mix) in October – he and Gonzo were incredibly bonded and it has been difficult for all of us.
Profession: Occupational Therapist
Location: West Midtown
Nicknames: Gonzilla
5 of the best words/phrases that describe Gonzo?
- Eager
- Energetic
- Snuggler (my little spoon)
- Foodie - loves to be near the kitchen when I cook so he can be thrown veggie scraps
- Intelligent
What makes Gonzo unique? Gonzo has never met a stranger. He loves people! He gets very excited with visitors and requires us to put dog training on point until he calms and acts like a gentleman.
Gonzo sporting his Falcons gear!
Rescue Story: I had been fostering dogs for a few years so when neighbors found a stray puppy (5-6 months old) they brought him to me. He was a highly energetic puppy and I had to seek additional training advice on how to work with a puppy like him…beyond the traditional training. At the time, I was fostering through You Lucky Dog Rescue. They agreed to accept Gonzo if I agreed to foster him. I truly had my hands full at the time but he needed a place to stay. I eventually succumbed to Foster Failure and formally adopted him. We were meant to be together.
I have always said Gonzo has been an adventure but, he is truly my favorite adventure.
Found a home!
What is your favorite pastime as a family? Gonzo is very athletic and he loves to run, jump, leap for his favorite toy.
I am a big Atlanta Falcons fan and named him after my favorite player (now retired) Tony Gonzalez #88
What is life like since you rescued Gonzo? Gonzo and I have learned a great deal from each other. I need to show him leadership and he has shown me that my state of mind has a great effect on him. If I get flustered or frustrated, it shows in his behavior. I compare it to a dance…we communicate each other’s mental state and physical energy ; we work to be in sync. When we stay in that mutual state, I fall in love all over again.
Photographers Note: I was really excited to meet this sweet boy after I learned he was named after one of my favorite football players as well. Being able to capture him in his Falcons gear was such a treat. Kelli made mention that he has a favorite toy, which is a red plastic bone. Turns out he will do anything for that bone, treats not needed to get this one to pose. Just hold that bone over your head and that is where he is going to look for as long as you have it there!