Hi! My name was Marlin but that was too hard to say, so now I go by “Marley,” but I don’t resemble the mischievous yellow lab from the book. I am happy that ESRA helped me – where I came from, well they really didn’t care about us, me and my dog buddies, as I spent almost all of my time outside with little contact with you two-legged guys. It took me a couple of days to feel comfortable in my foster home, but now I am very comfortable. My foster dad is awesome and I get along well with my foster big brother and sister. I would really like to have another dog or two to hang out with.

Even though I never lived in a house before, somehow I knew that I should go outside to do my business. My foster dad says that I’m pretty smart as I learned how to use the doggie door from my foster brother. I come when I’m called because it is fun and I get lots of praise and love when I come running! And I love to go for walks and I even know not to pull on the leash! But, I’m still working on basic commands as this is all new to me. I get a bit nervous when I hear new sounds, go to new places, or meet new people, but my confidence is growing every day! I still get a bit nervous when I'm riding in a car, but I love it when we get to where we are going. Now when I go to the dog park, I like to run and explore, but I never go too far or am out of sight of my foster dad. I have got some things to learn, but I can do it if you help me -- I promise!

I’ve been told I’m a very handsome young guy. My foster dad says that I am sweet and very affectionate - I guess that is because I like to snuggle up as close as I can to him. I like to follow him everywhere and it makes me happy to be included in everything that he does. If you the patience to help me learn, a doggie buddy I can hang with, and a welcoming heart, I would like to meet you

Please note that an approved adoption application is the first step in a more thorough interview process that is designed to match each dog to exactly the right family, and that the final decision rests with the dog's case manager.

Please read the Adoption FAQ and get an Adoption Application approved before inquiring about Marley.

Contact: Laurie Schirger Laurie.ESRA@q.com .

Posted: 3/10/10

I love to play with tennis balls!

Don’t let Stanley’s age fool you – this handsome fellow has the energy of a dog half his age. He loves to play ball and go for long hikes where he can run around and explore. His foster parents are amazed at how easily Stanley keeps up with the younger dogs in the house. He doesn’t even take a nap in the car after a long walk like the younger dogs do!

Stanley is very much a gentleman. He is housetrained and rides great in the car -- anywhere you want to go, Stanley will happily ride along. Stanley loves his toys and enjoys carrying one around with him. He has quite a personality and really likes to talk to you. Stanley would be happiest as an only dog in his Forever Home. He would love a family that will play ball with him, take him on daily walks and hang out with him at the end of the day. Stanley is a sweet boy who has much love yet to give.

Please note that an approved adoption application is the first step in a more thorough interview process that is designed to match each dog to exactly the right family, and that the final decision rests with the dog's case manager.

Please read the Adoption FAQ and get an Adoption Application approved before inquiring about Stanley.

Contact: Laurie Schirger Laurie.ESRA@q.com .

Posted: 5/28/10

Emme is a very sweet dog. She gets along well with other dogs, cats, and all kinds of people. She knows Sit, Lie Down, Play Dead, and she gives great hugs -- just ask her for one. Emme loves to play fetch. She is completely housetrained, likes to sleep in the bed with you, and is very mellow in the house. Emme also enjoys car rides.

Emme is completely blind; however, she is intelligent and adjusts well to any new situation. Her blindness was caused by a genetic condition of detached retinas. There is no cure for this condition. However, at this time it is painless. She has been blind for over two years.

Please note that an approved adoption application is the first step in a more thorough interview process that is designed to match each dog to exactly the right family, and that the final decision rests with the dog's case manager.

Please read the Adoption FAQ and get an Adoption Application approved before inquiring about Emme.

Contact: Coordinator, Nadine Van Alstine nadineesra@yahoo.com .

Posted: 4/03/10

Hi! My name was Marlin but that was too hard to say, so now I go by “Marley,” but I don’t resemble the mischievous yellow lab from the book. I am happy that ESRA helped me – where I came from, well they really didn’t care about us, me and my dog buddies, as I spent almost all of my time outside with little contact with you two-legged guys. It took me a couple of days to feel comfortable in my foster home, but now I am very comfortable. My foster dad is awesome and I get along well with my foster big brother and sister. I would really like to have another dog or two to hang out with.

Even though I never lived in a house before, somehow I knew that I should go outside to do my business. My foster dad says that I’m pretty smart as I learned how to use the doggie door from my foster brother. I come when I’m called because it is fun and I get lots of praise and love when I come running! And I love to go for walks and I even know not to pull on the leash! But, I’m still working on basic commands as this is all new to me. I get a bit nervous when I hear new sounds, go to new places, or meet new people, but my confidence is growing every day! I still get a bit nervous when I'm riding in a car, but I love it when we get to where we are going. Now when I go to the dog park, I like to run and explore, but I never go too far or am out of sight of my foster dad. I have got some things to learn, but I can do it if you help me -- I promise!

I’ve been told I’m a very handsome young guy. My foster dad says that I am sweet and very affectionate - I guess that is because I like to snuggle up as close as I can to him. I like to follow him everywhere and it makes me happy to be included in everything that he does. If you the patience to help me learn, a doggie buddy I can hang with, and a welcoming heart, I would like to meet you

Please note that an approved adoption application is the first step in a more thorough interview process that is designed to match each dog to exactly the right family, and that the final decision rests with the dog's case manager.

Please read the Adoption FAQ and get an Adoption Application approved before inquiring about Marley.

Contact: Laurie Schirger Laurie.ESRA@q.com .

Posted: 3/10/10

This smile is just for YOU!
 

I can't stop smiling! I'm having so much fun!

What a smile!

As you can see, Axel is a fun-loving boy. He loves to play with his foster brothers and sisters, but he loves his people too.

Axel may be a young Springer, but he sure has learned a lot since coming into foster care. He knows how to use the doggie door, goes in and out of his crate like a gentleman, is working very hard on his house manners, and nearly has housetraining all figured out.

Axel is a sweet boy that has not had a lot of direction so far in his life, but he is anxious to please and learns quickly. Axel does need a family that will devote time to obedience training, as this will help with his self confidence and be a great way to bond with his new family.

It is not clear what Axel's previous life was like, as he can be very timid and cautious. Axel will do well in a home that understands that he needs a little time to adjust, has a few things still to learn, and that he likes to play. He will thrive in a Forever Home that includes him in their everyday life and one that will love him for the wonderful Springer he is.

Please note that an approved adoption application is the first step in a more thorough interview process that is designed to match each dog to exactly the right family, and that the final decision rests with the dog's case manager.

Please read the Adoption FAQ and get an Adoption Application approved before inquiring about Axel.

Contact: Laurie Schirger Laurie.ESRA@q.com .

Posted: 5/22/10

Snoopy is the sweetest Springer boy you will ever have the good fortune to meet. He loves his people and wants nothing more than to be your shadow and share in all you do.

As you can see from his pictures, he is a shy and timid boy. Snoopy is a handsome young Springer whose start in life was not a kind one. This Velcro Springer has settled into our home nicely and gets along great with the other dogs. Snoopy still does get frightened of everyday happenings and noises, but he has made tremendous progress with his self confidence. He is completely housetrained, crate trained and rides well in the car. His leash skills are improving. It’s not that he pulls, it’s just that Snoopy simply sits and does not walk. We continue to take him to new places to help him with his fear of new people, places and things.

Snoopy will need a home that is quiet and where his family is home more than they are gone. His Forever Family will need to have patience and time to continue to show Snoopy that the world can be a kind and loving place where he is welcome and safe. Snoopy has those “Springer ears” that will need regular cleanings and attention. He may have mild allergies, so we have him on a grain-free dog food to help keep his ears healthy.

Please note that an approved adoption application is the first step in a more thorough interview process that is designed to match each dog to exactly the right family, and that the final decision rests with the dog's case manager.

Please read the Adoption FAQ and get an Adoption Application approved before inquiring about Snoopy.

Contact: Laurie Schirger Laurie.ESRA@q.com .

Posted: 7/08/10

MAVERICK
Arnold, NE
 

I am an older boy who does not consider himself so. I am your buddy and best friend. If we take a walk together, I will follow you anywhere. Where will you take me?

Fondly,
Maverick

Maverick is such a good boy. He is a lover and just wants to be there with you. He is not too happy about being left alone, and he sings sad Springer songs when he is. "Woo, woo! Won't you stay home with me?" He loves going for car rides. The destination is not as important as the ride. This big boy is housetrained and invisible-fence trained. He is good on the leash and is fine with other dogs. He loves people of all ages. Snuggling on the couch with you is one of his best skills.

Maverick qualifies for the Seniors for Seniors program. He has bad hips that may slow him down as he ages. Right now he just walks stiffly. We have checked into surgery for him, but it was not recommended due to his age. He certainly does not consider himself a senior and is determined to enjoy as many things with you as possible. Keeping him trim and making sure he has daily exercise will help him feel his best. People who have been through this themselves should understand. Maverick needs you as much as you need him.

We certainly would enjoy chatting with you about this great dog. Please contact his foster family to learn more.

Please read the Adoption FAQ and get an Adoption Application approved before inquiring about Maverick.

Contact: Julie and Clay Mohr mohr4you@gpcom.net .

Posted: 4/12/10

Here's looking at you, kid

No, you are not seeing things. It's Beau, again looking for his perfect Forever Home.

From Beau's foster mom: Beau is one of our all-time-favorite fosters, and he has made a point to prove it by coming back to us a couple of times! It seems that we have not found just the right Forever Home for this sweet, goofy boy. His story is filled with circumstances beyond his control. He was found as stray, living as best he could in a rural area. Once he was taken into rescue, he quickly adapted to the good life and loved everyone that he came in contact with. He was adopted by a great family who had another young male dog Beau's age. Once in his new home, Beau and the other fellow decided that they were not going to play nice, so Beau came back to us.

At that point, we discovered that he was not quite the same dog as when he left. He was a bit crankier, so to the vet we went. It was discovered that he was fighting ehrlichia, a tick-borne disease. Treatment was started right away, but the disease is a pretty mean one, and he ended up losing an eye to it. After a year of treatment and tests, Beau was deemed ready for adoption again. This time he went to another great home. He was loved by his family and he loved them, especially the children. However, around Christmas time he decided to become a "Sprinkler Spaniel," watering the Christmas presents and other objects around the home. Again he came back. We quickly discovered that Beau had a urinary-tract infection. We have treated that, and he is once again a dry dog. So that's his story. He's a very loving dog in need of a very loving home.

Beau is invisible-fence trained and crate trained. He is very good in the car. He likes to have fun outside, but he adores your lap and company inside. He snuggles with the best of them. He loves treats, bones, people, and going for rides in the car. He is good with submissive dogs. He is okay on a leash, but he's better with a harness. He knows basic commands. He does have a problem, if you consider it to be a problem, with jumping up to greet you. He has so much love to give and happiness to share that he just can't help it!

Beau is very special to us, and he should also be very special to the family who adopts him. Beau does not come with a guarantee of perfection; he only comes with unconditional love. If that is enough for you, and if you can return that love, contact us.

Please read the Adoption FAQ and get an Adoption Application approved before inquiring about Beau.

Contact: Julie and Clay Mohr mohr4you@gpcom.net .

Posted: 3/01/10

Is this an end-zone dance?

This handsome boy is Buddy. He has been on a tour of the Midwest in search of just the right Forever Home. Perhaps it is yours?

Buddy is a sweet boy, but he is very sensitive to stress and to people's emotions. He wants everyone to understand that meanness will not be tolerated. He thinks he should take charge in these situations, and he will do so if given the opportunity. For this reason we will not place him in a home with children, as this could be a problem. In every other situation Buddy has been a gem. He is good with the other dogs and snuggles with them. He is housetrained, crate trained, invisible-fence trained, and is Springer-normal on the leash. He rides well in the car. He kennels when asked to do so, and once he realizes that he will not be in there forever, he is a quiet boy.

Buddy is right at home in the field. He was bred to be a working dog and is happy when doing a job. We certainly will prefer a home that can give Buddy the opportunity to be a working partner. Training Buddy should be a breeze due to his attentiveness to his people. He is smart!

Please contact Buddy's foster home to learn more.

Please read the Adoption FAQ and get an Adoption Application approved before inquiring about Buddy.

Contact: Julie and Clay Mohr mohr4you@gpcom.net .

Posted: 6/28/10

LeRoy is a sweet, playful two-year-old boy. He loves attention. He is a puppy seeking a family that appreciates the fun of a young dog learning the tricks of the perfect doggie trade. He loves to please and, like a sponge, he is soaking up all the new lessons in his foster home.

LeRoy is crated trained and settles down nicely in his crate for a good night’s sleep.

He enjoys children ten years old or older and has fun with his dog friends in his foster home. LeRoy is much too interested in cats to live with them.

Please note that an approved adoption application is the first step in a more thorough interview process that is designed to match each dog to exactly the right family, and that the final decision rests with the dog's case manager.

Please read the Adoption FAQ and get an Adoption Application approved before inquiring about LeRoy.

Contact: Coordinator, Suzanne Zutter zutt1991@yahoo.com .

Posted: 7/17/10

Koda

Sadie

Sadie and Koda

Koda

Read about bonded pairs and the benefits of adopting these special best friends.

Koda and Sadie are a bonded pair that we would like to keep together. Koda is a black and white male that is very sweet and well mannered. He likes to go on walks with his sister and fetch tennis balls. Sadie is liver and white, very sweet, and such a lady. They were well loved by their family but were left behind when the family moved to South Africa.

Both Koda and Sadie are very good with cats and children. They are very good in the park when walked off leash and very good when hiking up the Wasatch. They are easy to walk -- you really do not even have to call their names, as they tend to stick close to the human they are walking with. They are both housetrained and are peaceful in the house.

Koda and Sadie are the perfect duo and will fill a home with double the fun and love.

Please note that an approved adoption application is the first step in a more thorough interview process that is designed to match each dog to exactly the right family, and that the final decision rests with the dog's case manager.

Please read the Adoption FAQ and get an Adoption Application approved before inquiring about Koda.

Contact: Coordinator, Suzanne Zutter zutt1991@yahoo.com .

Posted: 6/02/10

Oly has lived outside for most of his life. However, he is housetrained and is truly enjoying being a house dog. He is a quiet dog who gets along great with the other animals in the house as well as with guest dogs and people. He loves to have his belly rubbed. Oly is a morning dog, and he gets the day started just right with a great morning greeting. Each morning he is all wiggles and is very verbal about being touched and petted.

Oly is almost blind and has trouble going down the stairs, but he can go up the stairs with no problem. Oly is new to the foster program, so please watch for updates as we learn more about him and his blindness. At this point, we know that it does not affect his ability to love and be loved. He has also adapted well to being in his foster home.

UPDATE 6/28/2010: Oly is in good health (he has great teeth!) except for issues with his right eye. His left eye has similar problems, but the right seems the worst. He has no signs of glaucoma. Oly will need to see a vet eye specialist.

Oly is the sweetest of dogs. He has taught himself to use the doggy door, but even before he did that he never had an accident in the house.

UPDATE 7/7/2010: It was previously reported that Oly had a condition called Lens Luxation. However, his foster home took him to a dog eye specialist and we have determined the real cause of Oly's eye troubles. Oly has a detached retina in his right eye that has caused complete blindness in that eye. He has a cataract in his left eye and still has vision in the left eye. He does not have glaucoma; however, he will need regular check ups throughout his life for glaucoma. Oly is not in pain with his current condition and he is such a great dog -- and super handsome too!

Please note that an approved adoption application is the first step in a more thorough interview process that is designed to match each dog to exactly the right family, and that the final decision rests with the dog's case manager.

Please read the Adoption FAQ and get an Adoption Application approved before inquiring about Oly.

Contact: Coordinator, Suzanne Zutter zutt1991@yahoo.com .

Posted: 6/21/10

Max is a two-year-old puppy. He is good with children and all dogs, housetrained and he knows how to use the dog door well. Max does not chew and he likes cats. He is good off leash and he knows basic commands. Max can be left alone with other dogs in the house. Max has the energy of a typical young Springer, so he would like an active home so he can have a running, hiking, and walking partner.

Max is seeking an exceptional home that will provide love and companionship. In return, you will be the recipient of unconditional love and lots of puppy kisses.

Please note that an approved adoption application is the first step in a more thorough interview process that is designed to match each dog to exactly the right family, and that the final decision rests with the dog's case manager.

Please read the Adoption FAQ and get an Adoption Application approved before inquiring about Max.

Contact: Coordinator, Suzanne Zutter zutt1991@yahoo.com .

Posted: 7/02/10

Meet wonderful Haze! He is a very intelligent, eager-to-please, very active ten-month-old puppy. His owners were moving and couldn't take Haze, which is how he came into ESRA's care. He knows how to Sit, Shake and Roll Over, for a treat of course! He is housetrained, doggy door trained and is learning to stay in his crate while his foster mom is gone.

Beautiful Haze would like a Forever Home with a young dog buddy to romp and play with and an active mom and dad who would take him for long walks or hikes.

Haze loves to sleep on the bed but he is content on the floor, too. He loves to sit on your lap and be by you. He is rambunctious so he would do best with a young, big dog to play with. Haze is a little shy with strangers, so his foster mom is taking him to work with her to help him get used to new people and places. He would benefit from obedience classes and leash training. Haze is eagerly awaiting his Forever Home.

UPDATE 4/10/2010: Haze is a really great dog! Since he has been in his foster home, we have found that he loves children and will pay tug until someone gives (usually not him). He is so sweet and loves a good belly rub. He is happiest right next to you. He does not need to be the alpha dog and he is the perfect dog to bring to work. Haze is walking better on the leash and is neutered, microchipped and heartworm negative. Haze loves his toy box and will empty it one toy at a time and sometimes he even puts them back in the box. Haze has been playing a lot with the two resident Springers and a beagle, who is his favorite. He is ready for his Forever Home!

Please read the Adoption FAQ and get an Adoption Application approved before inquiring about Haze.

Contact: Coordinator, Nadine Van Alstine nadineesra@yahoo.com

Posted: 3/31/10

Wesley is a happy dog that loves people and gives great hugs. He knows Sit, is crate and house trained, and comes when he is called. Wesley is active and enjoys a good time in the yard. When he is in the house, he is quiet and enjoys sleeping in the sun. Wesley takes treats gently. He gets along with all dogs. He is a good dog for bathing and nail trimming. Wesley can be a bit shy at first with new people and dogs; however, he warms up quickly. He is also learning about car rides and that they are not so scary.

Wesley will enjoy a Forever Home that will include him in family activities. He loves people and wants to be around for good scratches and cuddles. He is active and will need a home that will take him for walks and/or runs. He may make a good hunting dog because he is interested in birds and has the energy level to enjoy the sport.

Wesley does have a full tail and knows how to use it.

Please note that an approved adoption application is the first step in a more thorough interview process that is designed to match each dog to exactly the right family, and that the final decision rests with the dog's case manager.

Please read the Adoption FAQ and get an Adoption Application approved before inquiring about Wesley.

Contact: Coordinator, Suzanne Zutter zutt1991@yahoo.com .

Posted: 6/16/10