Chris and I took Sami and looked at a Rattie from Rat Terrier ResQ. His Name is Jack but they have him listed as Rocky. He was rescued from a shelter in Norco. He spent two months with his foster parents and then was adopted for two months. Unfortunately, his adopted Mom lost her job and has to move by the end of the month and can't keep him.

We filled out an application and met Jack and his Mom at a local park. He's a real sweetie. He's got a great personality.  He's 20lbs and very strong. Sami took to him fairly well. But she gets scared around bigger dogs and he's a little big.

We're just not sure what to do. It's been so tough losing Bob. It kind of feels like we're trying to replace him. I thought we'd wait a bit to get another dog, but we saw Max/Rookie from San Diego on the website a few weeks ago and went down to adopt him. (He was at a County shelter so we felt some urgency.) Turns out he got adopted the day before. YAY! But it got us looking at Ratties who need homes. And we absolutely love the breed.

It's harder with Jack. Even though his adopted Mom is giving him back, he's not in any danger. It feels like we're taking him from his home. He's obviously attached to her and it's going to be a rough one on him. (She seems like a good mom and says that it's been a very difficult decision.) So basically we wait for the home visit and approval.

We appreciate any words of wisdom. Everyone here has been so kind and supportive helping us through this difficult time with the passing of our Sweet Boy Bob. It has meant so much to both of us. More than you all know.

Love,

Lori and Chris

Jack/Rocky's pics and info...

http://s148.photobucket.com/albums/s22/ocsurfgirl/JackRocky/?albumview=slideshow

http://www.ratterrierresq.com/available_response.php?resultpage=2&category=adult&location=&name=&sex

(He's at the bottom of the page.)

He's beautiful!!!  I think in time Sami will learn that Jack isn't going to hurt him.  Mocha was scared of everything when we brought her home, and she has really blossumed.  SHe has the best, most happy-go-lucky personality now.  I think you can never replace an animal that you lost, but that void can be filled, and you save another dog.  Jack will adjust just fine to his new home in time.  The dog whisperer says that dogs live in the here and now, so don't feel sorry for him, just move forward.  Hope this helps....

Good luck with your decision.

Thanks for the support everyone. It truly helps!

We're going to see Jack aka Rocky again tomorrow morning but it's not looking good. After a lot of soul searching, discussion, and tears we feel he's just a little big for us and Sami. Turns out he's 24lbs. And he's a complete stud. He's put on a lot of muscle. The older pictures don't really show that. Rat Terrier ResQ put him up as the featured dog on their website over the weekend so we're hoping someone puts in an application.

So now I feel completely horrible. I'm missig Bob terribly today and add to that my feelings about Jack. He really has a great personality so I'm feeling even worse because we're not taking him just because he's too big.  

Lori