Derby was helped under our Collies Helping Collies program in a temporary foster home while his mom was going through a hard time. While with us, Derby became very ill and spent some time in “doggie ICU” in an oxygen chamber. Our supporters were all praying for him and sending their best wishes for his speedy recovery, and we are happy to report that Derby has recovered and is back to his normal self.

At the end of January, he returned home and we had hope that his mom would be able to continue to care for him while she continued working to establish a more conducive and stable environment. Sadly, Derby’s mom has made the difficult decision that he needs to be rehomed to a forever home that can give him everything that he needs to thrive as the wonderful collie that he is. Now we have the opportunity as a community to help Derby one more time.

Derby is eight years old, mature but not “old.”

Derby is fully house-trained

Derby is crate trained

Derby walks well on leash.

Derby is current on all of his vaccinations and is already neutered.

Derby is ready for his forever home!

Derby came into his current situation when his original owner passed away, and he is used to living as an only dog. Derby has spent time in doggy daycare and done just fine, however we have also seen him get grumpy around other dogs who wanted more interaction than he was willing to give. So we would like him to be able to keep his status as an only dog in the family. He is a large dog at approximately 85 lbs. He has not been tested around very young children, and we think a home with no children or older children would be best for him. We have not tested him with cats. His foster parents adored him, and he adjusted to their home very quickly.

Derby has the following special needs:

Derby has never navigated a full flight of stairs, so his forever home would ideally be a rancher or home with enough space on the first floor so that he doesn’t feel penned in. He was able to learn a split flight of steps leading up to his foster home very quickly, but even so never attempted the full flight up to the second floor.

Derby showed apprehension navigating a new smooth floor (tile or hardwood) but learned very quickly with patience and positive reinforcement.

Derby has been diagnosed as hypothyroid and is doing well on daily medication. The rescue will work with anyone who has concerns about that but is otherwise a good fit.

Derby isn’t a fan of being groomed. A few months ago his coat was cut short to make up for lack of grooming in his recent past. He will benefit from a groomer who is well versed in FearFree techniques.

When we first met Derby, he was fully unwilling to get into a car, however, he did do fine once we managed to coax him into the car. During his time in foster care, he made wonderful strides in that area and was happily jumping into the back of a hatchback by the time he went home. We expect there may be some adjustment depending on the type of vehicle.

If you think you have what is needed to give Derby his happy ever after, please download and submit an application. We know there is a wonderful home just waiting for him.