Welcome Ignatius, a gorgeous 6-year-old purebred Golden Retriever who previously weighed 120 pounds and is now down to 93 pounds after his recent vet visit. He will be neutered on the 20th of this month. Ignatius is named after St. Ignatius and was a companion to an older, mildly autistic woman until she and her caretaker mother needed to go to a care facility. He currently resides in Olivia, MN, with another Golden named Rusty (12 years) and his foster.

Ignatius has had many changes in the last few months and has had to adjust to being around people and places, as he spent his whole life indoors and only went out for walks and few rides. He had a trainer who worked with him and used positive reinforcement. He has only known lots of love.

These are some things Ignatius needs. He needs an elevated feeding dish, or he refuses to eat, and he may need food like squash added so he eats his dog food. He can have NO scissors around his face, or he may show aggression. A muzzle may be needed for toenail clipping and grooming. He can't be crated, as he will chew on the bars and has a high separation anxiety at this time. He will pick up dropped objects and has been known to do a stare-and-freeze, and he will snap if you try to take the objects away or if he is grabbed by the collar. He must be redirected and asked to back away so no one is hurt when this happens. He did have a couple of pee accidents while left with the other dog in the house, and he needs more work on this anxiety issue. He was used to Dutch doors in his previous home, so a gate that is covered would probably work, or he is good with free roam. He needs patience when being introduced to new settings, as he gets very frustrated and confused, having never been left alone for 6 years.

Here are some positive things about Ignatius. He walks without pulling on his leash or harness. He loves peanut butter, yogurt, squash, and green beans. He loves attention and petting, and sleeps on the floor by the bed or wherever his person is during the day. Ignatius loves to go in a little pool and sometimes plays with the hose when running.

He is learning to love to be outside and would love to have a playmate to play with to help with his weight loss. He knows the commands "sit," "stay," and "down," and he will raise his paw if asked if he wants to vote. He rides nicely in the vehicle and will lay down. He only barks when people knock on the door. He gets along with the cat in the household and doesn't chase him.