Vance came to us from a local animal control where his time was almost up.  Physically, Vance looks like a black labrador, but his coat is sometimes fluffy like he might have some Flat-Coat Retriever in him.  Vance also has a crooked tail.  It seems that his tail may have been broken when he was a puppy and no one ever bothered to have it fixed.

Foster Update:  We brought Vance home with us yesterday afternoon.  He was scared when we met him at the shelter but once he got in the car he was fine.  He rode really well in the car.  When we got home he fit right in with our other dogs, 3 year old Lab and 11 year old Lab.  He is a very mellow and sweet dog.  He is housebroken and stands by the door when he wants to be let out. This morning he was running around in the backyard with the younger lab and they had a blast.  We have a pool but he didn't seem interested in going in so I don't know how well he swims.  I gave him a bath afterwards and he stood there calmly.  He walks well on a leash and is not possessive of bones or toys.  He does like his crate and slept all night without any issues.  Vance is a super dog that would make great companion!

Foster Update:  Vance has been with us for a week now.  We have learned a few more things about him ... He isn't afraid of loud noises, the New Years Eve fireworks didn't bother him at all.  He doesn't get on furniture or attempt to get any food off the counter top. He hasn't tried to chew anything other than dog toys or balls.  We leave the door to his crate open and he goes in and out as he wants.  He listens well.  The other day on our walk he went to chase a squirrel and when I said "no" he stopped dead in his tracks.  He tried a couple of his foster brother's favorites this week, carrots and green beans.  He didn't like them at first but once he saw the other two enjoying the treats he decided he liked them also.  He is a really great dog.  Very calm considering he is only 2 years old.  He has been a joy to have around!

Like many dogs in the South, Vance is heartworm positive, but don't let that stop you from adopting a great dog.  We are treating him with monthly heartworm preventative, our preferred method.  Many heartworm positive dogs go on to lead long and healthy lives.

*** According to www.dogbreedinfo.com, the Labrador Retriever is a loving, affectionate, lovable, patient dog. Once known as the "St John's Dogs," the Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular breeds in the United States. Originally from Newfoundland, Canada the Labrador was trained to jump overboard into the icy waters to haul fisherman's nets to shore. Specimens were brought to England in the 1800's by English ships coming from Labrador, where the dog's fine retrieving instincts were honed and developed. One of the best family dogs and canine companions because of their gentle, loving disposition, the highly trainable Labrador also excels in drug detection, as a guide for the blind, and service dog for the disabled. The breed is also an outstanding obedience and field trial competitor. Highly intelligent, loyal, willing, and high-spirited. Lively and good-natured, they love to play, especially in water - for they love to swim. They have an excellent, reliable, temperament and are friendly, superb with children and equable with other dogs. They crave human attention and need to feel as though they are part of the family. Labs are easily trained. These dogs are watchdogs, not guard dogs, although some have been known to guard. They have a life expectancy of 10-12 years.