Zena and Zora
 Zena
(blue coat) and Zora (pink coat) are basenji sisters originally from South
Dakota, now living in southern Michigan. They are petite, and shy, but
curious. They both like to cuddle with humans and are learning to enjoy
human touching. Zora will give a loud "roo" if she thinks Zena is getting
more than her share of the attention, or if they are separated. They are
learning to walk on a leash, are both crate-trained and now almost
completely potty-trained. They enjoy playing with their two basenji brothers
and have been shown by them how much fun it can be to shred paper.
Both girls have good appetites and will readily try new
foods. Sometimes they have tried to eat things they shouldn't (like the
toilet seat) and items that the foster family forgot to put away. They
should be crated or kept in a basenji safe area when their caretakers are
not able to supervise them as they are like two very curious puppies when
exploring their environment.
They are healthy and completely vetted. Though Zora was
quite skinny when they came to BRAT, she has now filled out and looks great!
 Although
they are doing well with potty training, their new "pawrents" must have them
on a schedule and watch for signs they need to "go" as they have not yet
learned to tell them. They do not mind going out in the rain and as long as
they are taken out regularly, accidents are rare. They will respond best to
a calm and patient human to provide them with positive training and
reinforcement. Neither of the girls are grumpy when awakened, however Zora
gets a little cranky and selfish when cuddling. She does not want the other
dogs to interfere with her snuggle time.
Zena will initially protest when crated, but they both
will settle down and rest quietly after a few minutes. They will not come
when called, even indoors, and will bolt if given the chance. Care must be
taken that they do not escape the safety of the home or fenced yard as
getting them to come back to you back would be difficult.
Their ideal home will be one familiar with dogs who have
not received early socialization and training. Prior basenji experience is a
definite plus as well. They will not be separated for placement unless each
is able to find a home with a basenji brother to keep them company and teach
them the house rules. I prefer not to place them with young children because
they are easily frightened of sudden movements and loud noises. A home where
they will not be alone or crated 40 hours a week is preferred.
If you think you could provide Zena and Zora with love,
activity, training, and evening cuddle-time, please read the data sheet
below carefully, and contact BRAT coordinator,
Bill and Elizabeth Newton. The coordinator's link will take you to a form that will
ask you your name, e-mail address, the city and state you live in, why one
or both of these girls are perfect for your family, a
typical day in your household, and, if applicable, how you plan to
transport them. |
