Say hello to our sweet lady Ruth! Ruth is a one-year-old border collie mix from northern Manitoba, where she was rescued by our friends Manitoba Animal Alliance after being abandoned at a spay and neuter clinic. Ruth is a little on the shyer side, though her confidence continues to grow each day! Ruth is looking for a patient and loving family to give her the forever home she deserves!

It’s no wonder our girl was named after the one of the most iconic and important female leaders of all time (Ruth Bader Ginsburg!) – like RBG, Ruth is very smart, naturally hardworking and even sports a few patches of white fur around her neck à la RBG’s famous dissent collar! Ruth is a naturally shy girl who takes time to warm up to her environment. She is nervous around new people, though she still shows enough curiosity to eventually move past the acquaintance phase. Once she’s familiar, she settles right down. Ruth loves to follow her foster around and prefers to be in her company than on her own, so it’s clear that she is eager to form a strong bond with whoever is caring for her! She’s a very snuggly girl who often seeks out her foster for some affection and cuddles! Ruth has met older children (12-18): she was initially anxious, but once comfortable, she loves nothing more than a good cuddle!

Ruth would make a great addition to any family, but would do best in a home with slightly older, dog-saavy kids, especially since she’s not a fan of being startled. As for cats, Ruth likes to do a bit of chasing (… border collie, amiright?) but can easily be told to “leave it!”

Ruth is currently being fostered with other dogs, which means she’s participated in lots of pack walks! She’s taken tips from her fellow pack walkers and does very well on the leash, walking in heel. In classic border collie fashion, she has a herding instinct which can show up during walks.

Introductions to new dogs should be handled with care: Ruth has some startle tendencies (territory based), which can cause her to bark, so slow hellos are key for her.

Once settled, she is playful, calm and submissive! She would do well in a home with other dogs, but could easily thrive as an only-pup. Ruth would even enjoy living in a condo, provided she receives enough physical stimulation throughout the day. Right now, she goes on two walks a day and spends lots of time playing in the backyard. She loves to play with her fosters and is learning how fun it is to engage with toys! Ruth knows “sit,” “wait,” “come,” and has excellent recall. She’s received rave reviews about her intelligence, which means she has eons of potential to continue learning new skills!

Ruth is potty trained and crate trained. She doesn’t mind spending time in her crate and has not exhibited any separation anxiety.

Ruth is spayed, microchipped and up to date with her vaccines! She is currently being treated for Giardia and Cystoisopora.

Though Ruth’s story is heartbreaking, it’s clear that she was destined to find a home where she can receive the care and attention that she deserves! She is ready to start a new chapter in a good home and continue to blossom more and more each day!

SOCIABILITY: Humans (adults and dog-savvy kids) and dogs

ENERGY: Medium

QUIRK: Her silly smile!

TRAINING NEEDS: Continued basic obedience, continued socialization

WEIGHT: 40lbs

MEDICAL NEEDS: Currently being treated for Giardia and Cystoisopora

FOSTER LOCATION: Toronto