Copper

My story

Copper is an approximately 3-year-old Rhodesian Ridgeback mix who arrived at the shelter as an unclaimed stray, and he’s been quietly learning that the world can be a safe place ever since. When Copper first came in, he was a very timid and nervous boy who would retreat to the back of his kennel when staff approached. Everything felt overwhelming, and he needed time to decompress and adjust at his own pace. With patience, consistency, and gentle care, Copper has started to show just how much he is capable of growing. Today, Copper is beginning to truly shine. He can now often be found at the front of his kennel with a softly wagging tail, ready to greet familiar faces. He moves in and out of his kennel nicely and has shown that he is comfortable with handling and care, remaining calm even during more invasive handling such as having multiple ticks removed. He has also been comfortable being rotated alongside other dogs, continuing to build his confidence in a social environment. While Copper is still a shy boy when meeting new people, his progress is clear. He now approaches cautiously with a relaxed body and a gentle tail wag, warming up much more quickly than before. Volunteers have noted that once he is away from the shelter building, his confidence grows significantly and his true personality begins to come forward. Copper already knows several basic commands including sit, paw, other paw, and down, suggesting he has had some prior training. He appears to be house trained and keeps a clean kennel. With continued positive reinforcement training, he will benefit from further work on leash manners, confidence building, and socialization. His volunteer friends have had many wonderful things to say about him: “Loves treats and cuddles.” “Lovely boy, super affectionate, walks well on leash, very gentle when taking treats.” “Initially a little shy and nervous but warmed up really quickly, liked to be petted and touched.” On walks, Copper enjoys exploring and engaging with the world, though he can still be strong on leash at times and may be easily distracted by squirrels. Even so, he settles well overall and continues to improve with guidance and reassurance. After a recent walk, he returned with a loose body, wide wagging tail, and an open, relaxed expression — a beautiful sign of how far he’s come. Copper will need a patient, understanding adopter who can provide a calm, structured home and prioritize ongoing training, secure handling, and gradual socialization. He can startle easily and may be a flight risk in unfamiliar situations, so safe containment and careful leash management are very important. He would also benefit from continued positive reinforcement-based obedience classes to help build confidence and strengthen his skills. Copper is still a work in progress, but he is already showing what a gentle, affectionate, and promising dog he can be. In the right home, with patience and kindness, Copper has every opportunity to blossom into a deeply loyal and loving companion. If you think you can provide a home for Copper please submit an application using the link below: https://www.hamilton.ca/home-neighbourhood/animals-pets/adopt-or-foster-pet/adoptions Copper has a future appointment to be neutered. He will be ready to go to his forever home after he has recovered from this surgery. Animal adoptions and viewing are by appointment only. This allows our Adoption Staff to spend quality time with each potential home to ensure the most successful matches are made between the animals and their new families. *Please note: we only adopt within Ontario

If you have any questions or would like to adopt Copper, please reach out to the adoption group directly. PetSmart Charities does not facilitate the adoption process. Thank you.