Ford

Cockalier

5mo/  DOB 05.15.25

11 Pounds

Neutered /Microchipped 

UTD on vaccinations 

Heartworm / Flea Preventative

Adoption Donation: $600.00 (tax deductible)

INSTRUCTIONS for ADOPTION:

• Please read the bio in its ENTIRETY. 
• If you feel your family is a perfect match, please send a completed application to gateway4paws@gmail.com. 
• Applications & FAQ regarding adoption can be found here on our website. 
• Only completed applications that meet requirements will be reviewed. 
• Since we are 100% foster-based rescue, only approved applications will be contacted. 
• We do not allow shipping & do not transport. 
• You must live within 350 miles from Maryville, IL & be able to drive to the foster for a meet & greet.   

Ford came from a facility where the licensed breeder passed away & we have been working to get all the dogs to rescue. He had quite a learning curve to tackle when he landed in his foster home. Puppies are a commitment. They don't have any manners, they don't listen, they explore everything. And we mean EVERYTHING. It is up to you, his family, to have patience, make time, and train him to be a member of the family. He will be happy & you will be happy if rules are set & established.

This little guy has had tons of fun in his foster home. He plays with the resident dogs.  We have been able to provide ample opportunity for socialization while he's been in foster care. It is vitally important for puppies to have this experience when they are young, as it sets the stage for their ability to properly respond and interact as they grow older.  Ford is learning acceptable behavior with his foster siblings, they teach him correction & what is acceptable. 

Ford is in the toddler stage of his development. He loves to put things in his mouth. It is very important that items are not left around for him to ingest, as they can pose a serious health risk to him. Foreign object obstructions are dangerous and extremely expensive to treat. It is much better to make sure items are not accessible to your puppy.

Ford has not had much opportunity leash training, but he does love to run in the secure physical fenced yard with his other foster friends. We will accept applications from families who do not have a fenced yard. But we will insist on you having a plan for a safe area where Ford can do his potty business without being stressed or startled. If you do not have a fence, he will need play time either in the home or a good walk. If you do have a fenced yard, your fence must be very secure, with no gaps.  NEVER EVER should he be outside off his harness & leash when not in the fenced area, NEVER. Additionally, no puppy should ever be left in a yard without supervision.  We will do a physical inspection to help identify safety concerns, and we absolutely will not approve invisible fences or shock collars. 

Ford is still working on his potty training. He does follow his canine foster siblings in & out when it is time for potty breaks and looks to them for guidance. It is a process that will require commitment & patience, as puppies have a puppy bladder. Remember, in a new home, a new environment means that new habits will have to be established. Please give him time to get used to a schedule & set him up for success! 

Ford will need to be supervised, and the best way to do that is to have a dedicated space set up for him. This area will be a part of the home where he can see activity & observe, but it is a place that is puppy proofed. Where he can play, lounge, or nap when his family is not directly engaging. Playpens, 4-squares, or x-pens are excellent tools to make this possible. They are easily mobile if you want to move them around, too.  If you have interior stairs, please have a plan to keep your puppy off the stairs unsupervised. Additionally, please be aware of the stair railing & the distance between the spindles.  Small children, anyone unsteady on their feet, and large dogs could be a safety hazard for Ford. He is quick to get under your feet. So please consider that when making the decision as to him being a good fit for your family.

Bringing home a new puppy is a huge responsibility. It requires lots of patience & time! But it is very rewarding if everyone is invested. Please apply if you meet the requirements & would like to adopt a wonderful new friend.  Please don’t apply without speaking to your spouse/partner first.