Hi! My name is Ruby Red, but you can call me Ruby.

I was brought into the shelter as emergency boarding after being rescued from a hoarding situation. Typically a hoarding situation is simply a case of someone wanting to do right and save us all but they got in over their head and couldn’t take care of us properly.

Because I was living with so many other dogs and only one person, I have okay dog-to-dog skills but my dog to people skills are lacking. When I was brought in I was very scared so I was transferred to the rescue to help me with my shyness so that I could find my new forever home. And boy has my personality really started to shine!

I really want to love and be the center of the world for ONE person. Right now I will do anything to be that for my foster mom. I almost work too hard to get her attention and forget there are a few others here that I have to share with. I am not at all fond of, interested in, or trusting of my foster dad. It's not that he is a bad guy, he's a great person actually and a great guy, I'm just terrified!

My foster mom says 'Ruby is a sweet dog that loves to snuggle and be around her person. She knows 'sit' and 'come here. We go on three walks a day and multiple play times throughout the day.'

I lived in a home with one woman and many, many dogs. That’s all I have known. At this time I would do best in a single female home as the ONLY pet, at least until I can get out and learn to trust other people more, which I am currently working on.

Why do I need to be your only pet? While I love playgroups I sometimes have trouble controlling my excitement and impulses and I have a tendency to be a bit pushy and can play a little rough. I just get so excited I don't realize I am knocking others over. Some don’t take kindly to that so I would need a friend who knows it’s just play.

On the other hand, if I think another dog is not playing and is targeting me, I will defend myself even if it's not necessary. This means my person has to know canine body language and keep their eyes on me at all times when interacting with other dogs. This is also why being an only dog would be good for both of us.

So because of my initial experiences, when I first meet new people I am bashful, shy, and a bit scared. I really need you to take it slow with me. If you go too fast I fear that you may hurt me and I will warn you to back off, though it’s not something that I hold on to, I am willing to try again if you are. Treats and a calm environment helps.

As you can see it takes me a little bit of time to become comfortable with new situations but I am getting better with each new encounter but once I am comfortable, lookout! I become happy-go-lucky, carefree, engaging, adaptive, and cheerful! What I am trying to say is I am looking for someone who will be patient with me and will help others be patient with me too until I know I am safe! Someone who knows when too much is too much for me. And someone who will love me as much as I will love them!
Oh and one more thing that may be obvious but needs to be said, I would do best in a home with no children.

Some things will take me longer to get used to and some habits may never change. For example, while I will let you pick me up, and I really want you to, I may cower to the floor as you reach for me, unsure of your intentions. But once I am in your arms and I know you are my person I will snuggle close and even give you kisses.

Life as a member of a hoarding situation taught me how to survive and fight for my survival. I've done it for years, it's going to take me time to learn that I no longer need to use those types of tools. Are you willing to allow me that time and space to get to be the amazing loving companion that I know I can be?

IF you can be patient and help me with my few insecurities, I can be the best pup you have ever known! I'm loyal, loving, and full of life when I feel safe and secure. I truly want to be your best friend ever!

If you think we may be a good match, or you would like to get to know me better, please click the Adoption Application button below and you will be contacted by one of the adoption counselors!

PLEASE NOTE: Due to home introductions that are part of the adoption process, we can only accept applications from interested parties who are in or near San Diego County, California at this time.