Contact Toes O'Riley the Very Special Puppy's Caretaker/Foster Directly: Wendy Christy (hootershooter22@hotmail.com), (407) 359-6920, (407) 782-5393

Description:
Toes O'Riley is a very special puppy. Now, yes, I know that all puppies are special, but he is Extra special. Why? I'm glad you ask.
Toes was found, a wee little thing, in a ditch on the side of the road. He was missing some back toes, removed either intentionally or bitten off. And he was almost starved to death. We found that he could not eat even when bottlefed, so Judy had him X-rayed. Sure enough, his esophagus was twisted, preventing him from keeping any food down. After a successful surgery, it was straightened out and he has begun to gain weight. He may continue to have some eating issues, but oh the joy he will bring to his family! According to his foster,
"After being with Riley for awhile, you forget all problems because all you can see is a puppy just striving for love. He is great around people, kids, and just loves playing with other dogs. Cuddling in your lap or close to your face is one of his favorite past- times. Riley is almost potty trained and it shouldn't be long before hes got it. He doesn't really like being caged alone in a room but should probably grow out of that. If i could keep him, i would in a heart beat. Who ever adopts Riley will truly be a lucky person."

12/16 Foster Update:
I have been Riley's Foster Mom for 2mo. & want to give you an update..He is gaining weight, 'bout 20lb. I still have to feed him small portions 4-6 x a day so he won't vomit even though he had a successful surgery.
He is a very playful, active puppy & is growing in length, but still all legs. He has learned to sit on command (sorta) & will play fetch although sometimes it becomes "keep away"..He will drop the ball for you when told.
He is housebroken now & sleeps in his crate with no problem. He does like to go & bark at my Lab when she is sleeping on her bed, but she graciously lets him have the bed or sometimes he will curl up with her in it.
When evening comes, he can't wait for me to sit in the recliner so he can curl up in my lap, his head on my chest to cuddle--he can't get close enough & is quite a lover! I think he is very special & would make a great pet!!

12/19 Foster Update:
I spoke to the Vet this am when I dropped him off. She did his surgery on his esophagus & said the esophagus above the stricture had stretched out because the food got hung up there & may not go back which means he would have to have small feedings the rest of his life--unsure at this point. It is a small price to pay for a great puppy who is sooo worth it.

According to www.dogbreedinfo.com, the Boxer's ancestors were two German mastiff type dogs, the Bullenbeiszer and the Barenbeiszer. They were later crossed with the powerful ancestors of the Mastiff and Bulldog. Early on, these dogs were prized for hunting, bull baiting, and for pulling carts. A bit farther down the family tree, Boxer ancestors became cattle dogs, and were used to round up livestock. They were also popular circus and theater dogs because they learned tricks so easily. Breeding was rather indiscriminate until the first Boxer studbook was started in 1904, stabilizing the breed standard. In spite of its German origins, "Boxer" is an English name that suitably describes the dog's punchy fighting style. Though early Boxers may have been quite ferocious, the breed today is a very gentle, loving family companion. Some of the Boxer's talents are watchdogging, guarding, police work, military work, search & rescue, competitive obedience, schutzhund and performing tricks.
The Boxer is happy, high-spirited, playful, curious and energetic. Highly intelligent, eager and quick to learn, but can be stubborn and sneaky. The Boxer is a good dog for competitive obedience. Constantly on the move, bonding very closely with the family. Loyal and affectionate, Boxers are known for the way they get along so