Ricco is a beautiful black and tan long haired German Shepherd male around 2 years of age. . Ricco had spent his life confined to a small outdoor pen occasionally escaping which is when he eventually got claimed by animal control. Ricco did not have a kind start to his life but is looking forward to having a home of his own.

Ricco has not had many positive human interactions but is learning to trust with each new positive interaction. Ricco has a kind soul and is very gentle with his foster family and the volunteers who have handled him. He can be aloof and weary when meeting new people but is quickly won over with some tasty treats. Ricco turns into a big cuddly lap dog with those he knows and has a very sweet, goofy demeanor. He loves getting pets and burrowing into your arms to be held. It takes him a while to realize new people are safe places for attention but once he feels safe he is a big lover. Ricco has been around older children and would probably be okay in a home with kids 10 + years of age who can respect his boundaries as he gets to know them. Ricco does well for bathing, brushing, and blow drying although they aren't his favorite things in the world. Ricco does enjoy car rides and hiking however he enjoys napping on the couch a bit more. Ricco does well both loose in the house or crated. 

Ricco is fostered with other large dogs and does very well. Ricco will sometimes play with the other dogs but he mostly enjoys throwing a Jolly Ball around for himself - he can truly provide himself with hours of entertainment with a Jolly Ball or Giggle Ball. The more persistently rambunctious dogs in his foster can get him to play chase games though which he enjoys until he starts trying to be the fun police. Overall, he does well with the other dogs in his foster home and is generally appropriate when meeting new dogs. Ricco has been fostered with cats and done very well with them. Every now and then he will give a bark when they go zipping through a room but he is also okay when they want to take a nap on the favored couch with him. Ricco has not been around small dogs. 

Ricco does struggle with hairloss and skin irritation that the vet has attributed to seasonal allergies. He is currently doing better with the help of Bravecto in addition to steroids over the summer but we have no way of predicting how his body will respond to the change in seasons come Spring. Ricco may need allergy shots in the future or more extensive allergy testing. 

Ricco is searching for a compassionate and patience home that will give Ricco the structure and guidance a Shepherd needs to flourish in a trusting and loyal companionship. If you're the home for Ricco email Tierhavenrescue@gmail.com for an adoption application or visit Tierhaven.rescuegroups.org for FAQs