Enzo's Story

This 'forever home' story almost didn't happen. Enzo came into rescue about October, 2021. I agreed to foster him, understanding that he had a history of food aggression and biting. He was three years old and had been in two different homes already. The odds weren't looking good. They got worse.

Less than 24 hours after picking him up, he bit me. The first of many bites that occurred along the way. They were always finger bites, and always drew blood. The things that kept me coming back for more were important. He was a beautiful dog, very well mannered, well trained, well socialized, loves to snuggle. There was a lot to like about Enzo, and I did not want to believe that this one flaw, a major flaw, could not be fixed. I worked hard with him; hand feeding, positive reinforcement, trust exercises. It sorta, kinda worked and he got somewhat better. I talked to trainers, a doggy shrink, tried different medications, and still got bit. Kept trying. He bit me one Friday evening and I'd had enough. By Monday I was back pedaling. Maybe it wasn't that bad, blah, blah.

I tried one more vet. The new vet put him on Prozac, and while it wasn't a miracle cure after about five weeks Enzo turned a corner. He wasn't as snarky about his food, didn't snap at me over treats. Soooooo, I figured we could work something out. There are very rigid rules about feeding him and I don't vary the routine. I still work on training. I can now stand about five feet away with my back turned and he'll eat without issue. My goal is to stand looking at him while he eats.

Other than the food issue I have a wonderful dog. I don't believe he's adoptable so I've kept him for myself. We'll never know why Enzo has food aggression. He may never get over it completely. I'm willing to live with it so we have great times together, and try to understand each other. 

May 1st was his fourth birthday. He had pizza, from my hand, and half a cookie for dessert. Went on a great hike and snuggled to sleep that night. My fingers are intact, but I'm very aware, there's always a chance he may bite again.

Rescue dogs are often an unknown quantity. Most have some issue or other that owners work around (dogs are pretty good at training people). Enzo's problem is more extreme and has required patience, understanding and lots of consideration.

P.S. The daily Prozac is given in a dollop of flavored cream cheese. The whole glob is slurped off my fingers and disappears down his throat without a hitch. He even licks my fingers clean. ;-)