Rodney

Hello… I’m Rodney 🐾
(Professional cuddle enthusiast, part-time ball thief, full-time affectionardo)

I’m five and a half years old, which I think is the perfect age — old enough to know how lovely a comfy sofa is, but young enough to still do joyful bouncy zooms when I’m excited (which is quite often, if I’m honest).

I’m an English Pointer, so I’ve got long legs, a waggy tail, and a heart that’s… well… a bit bigger than it knows what to do with sometimes.

My story (the short version, because I prefer happy chapters):

I was adopted when I was about 18 months old but life changed — smaller home, three spaniels already on the team — and there just wasn’t enough space for a big lad like me. Before that, I had a bit of a wobble in my past — I was attacked by a small dog when I was younger. So now, when I see tiny/small dogs, I don’t feel very brave… I might shake or try to keep my distance. I’m not being silly — I just remember, and I worry it might happen again.  I can’t stand the thought of being hurt like that again.  PTSD – (Particularly Traumatised By Small Dogs!)

The important stuff about me (aka “What makes Rodney, Rodney”):

• 🎾 Fetch? Oh yes, I LOVE fetch.My version is: you throw the ball… I run… I get the ball… and then… I keep it.This is the game. I am winning the game. I find it a lot of fun!
• Other dogs?Big dogs? Yes please, they might be my friends!Small dogs? I’d rather not, thank you very much. They look at me funny I am sure of it!
• Cats?I live with three. THREE.  Yep.. wearing that one like a special badge! And I curl up with them like a big spotty cushion. So yes, I am officially cat-approved.
• Food time = sacred timeI like to eat in peace. In my earlier life, mealtimes weren’t always calm, so I can get a bit worried and might growl to say “please give me space.”I’ve never done anything wrong — I just need a quiet spot where I can feel safe and learn that no one is going to bother me. I promise I’ll relax once I know the rules are kind.
• Chews are my therapy snacksSometimes, when I feel a bit anxious, I’ve been known to chew… myself. Not ideal, I know.  Plus I don’t think I taste as good as treats!But give me a nice safe chew and some good exercise, and I’m much happier and more relaxed.  My present circumstances are causing me to be anxious as I am not getting the exercise I need.   In the right home that I deserve and need I am sure this wouldn’t happen.
• Walks & my “herding hoomans” skillIf a stranger gets too close, I might bark — just doing my job, you see.I also have a very special move where I circle around you and lean into you… like I’m gathering up my little pack. It’s protective. It’s affectionate. I need to make sure my hooman is gonna be ok too.
• Training? I’m trying!Recall? Not really my strong suit yet.BUT — hold a treat just above my head and I will sit like the smartest boy you’ve ever seen.With patience, kindness, and maybe a bit of pâté… I could learn loads.

What I really need to thrive:

I want a home that understands I’m a soft-hearted lad who’s not had the start in life that I deserved.

• Proper exercise (I’ve got energy to burn!)
• Gentle guidance
• A safe, calm place to eat
• Love… lots of love and snuggle cuddles
• And someone who thinks my weird little habits are charming (because they are…obviously)

Final thoughts from me, Rodney:

I’m bouncy.
I’m affectionate.
I’m a bit quirky.
I might wrap you into you like a burrito if I love you too much.

But underneath it all, I’m just a soppy boy who wants to feel safe, run freely, and curl up next to his hoomans (and maybe a cat or two).

If you’ve got patience, kindness, and room in your life for a slightly silly, deeply loving dog…

…I think we might be perfect for each other 🐾

Love always… Rodney x