River in Maryland- UNDER APPLICATION REVIEW!
RIVER
LOCATION: DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia area)
AGE: 4 years
SEX: Female/Spayed
WEIGHT: 19.8 lbs
KIDS: Yes but children ages 10+
OTHER DOGS: Yes
CATS: Unknown
BIRDS & OTHER SMALL ANIMALS: No
AVAILABLE AS OF: 09/22/2025
ADOPTION FEE: $600
Meet River: Your Future Couch Companion & Soulful Sidekick
River is a 4-year-old, 19.8 lb bundle of love who’s ready to trade her past for a future filled with belly rubs, cozy naps, and unconditional affection. Once a retired breeder, River came to us as an owner surrender due to untreated allergies that led to skin infections. But don’t let her rough start fool you—this girl is a fighter, and her transformation has been nothing short of inspiring.
Thanks to a dedicated allergy regimen (Apoquel, prescription food, and medicated baths), River is thriving. Her cherry eyes have been surgically corrected, her skin has healed beautifully, and her spirit is blooming. She’s mellow, affectionate, and happiest when curled up beside you—whether on the couch, the bed, or just following you from room to room like the Velcro pup she is.
♣ What Makes River Special:
- Temperament: Quiet, gentle, and deeply loving. She warms up quickly to new people and dogs and has been a perfect companion to her foster doggie sister.
- Energy Level: Low to moderate. A couple of daily walks (1–2 miles) keep her content and sleepy.
- Training: 100% house-trained, excellent in her crate, and great on leash (she’s more of a lagger than a puller).
- Living Situation: Apartment-friendly, stair-savvy, and not a barker. She’s a dream for city dwellers or anyone seeking a peaceful pup.
- Kid-Friendly: Though she hasn’t lived with children in foster care, her previous owner reported she was great with kids 10+ years of age.
- Car & Vet Visits: She’s a champ—calm, cooperative, and easygoing.
♠ Health Notes:
River does have ongoing allergies, but they’re manageable with her current routine: Royal Canin HP food, Apoquel, and medicated baths 1-2 times a week. Her fungal and bacterial infections have resolved, and she’s been a trooper through it all. She’s not a fan of eye drops but we are hopeful she won’t need them too much longer since having cherry eye surgery. She tolerates grooming like a pro, though.
♥ Quirks We Love:
- She pees on grass but prefers to poop in the street (hey, we all have our preferences).
- She snores adorably depending on her sleep position.
- She’s a loud chewer who adores Benebones and Nylabones—stuffies beware!
- She’ll lock eyes with you in a way that makes you feel like the most important person in the world.
Ø Not a Match For:
- Homes with small pets like gerbils, birds, or other pocket-sized animals. River has a prey drive and will alert on squirrels and rabbits, so tiny companions aren’t ideal.
River is more than just a dog—she’s a soulful companion who’s overcome hardship and is now ready to give her whole heart to someone who’ll love her back. If you’re looking for a quiet, cuddly, low-maintenance best friend who will melt into your life and your lap, River might just be your perfect match. Make sure to apply!