Gizmo is a deaf, one year-old, 27-lb Australian cattle dog currently being fostered in Neptune Beach, FL (Duval County). Gizmo is a lover. He's all about the fun and cuddling. He loves people and loves other dogs even more. He is high energy when outside in the yard but calms down nicely inside. He really enjoys running around the yard with sticks and balls and playing keep away with other dogs. Being deaf, having another dog around gives him a connection to who he is: a dog. He does really well with children of all ages and plays gently with them. After a day of getting his energy out, he enjoys an evening on the couch.

Gizmo knows some hand signals, and once eye contact is made, he will sit on command and come when motioned to do so -- even from across the yard. He will willingly get in a crate (although it is not his preferred place) and often go right to sleep. He will instinctively nip at heels when he's excited, but he NEVER uses a bite force. It's gentle like the wind!

Gizmo needs to improve his social skills a bit. He is still very much a puppy and really just lacks life experience. He tends to jump up when overly excited. He also barks at new or unexpected people, which is resolved by the person getting down to his level and showing him they aren't a threat. Treats help too. Gizmo barks out of fear but never aggression -- a behavior that's easily overcome with more socialization and exposure to new situations. 

Gizmo is still learning to understand shadows and movement in the distance. The shifting of light at night gets his attention and he will focus on that. It's possible he may have a slight vision impairment at night. He is completely disinterested in cats and appears to have no prey drive, but does like to taste a plant every so often.

Gizmo has super soft fur, is house trained, neutered, and up to date on vaccines. He will need a home with a fenced-in yard and another playful but kind packmate to be his best self. This sweet boy's deafness shouldn't be a dealbreaker -- there are many tools, tips and other resources available to help rescuers of deaf pups, and there are advantages too -- like no fear of thunder or fireworks!  

For more information on our adoption process, visit the Adoption Information page of our website: ewenityfarmsbch.com