Energetic Smudge Seeks Rescue Support!!! - Baltimore, MD
Smudge(Mugsy): altered female, 3y6m, 50.8lbs
Smudge returned to the shelter on 4/30 and is currently on behavior hold while she receives further evaluation and support. She is in need of placement with a rescue partner at this time.
Since her previous stay on 4/7/25, Smudge has gained a significant amount of weight. She remains an energetic, playful dog who is always ready for activity, especially anything involving squeaky toys. She loves to chase, toss, and engage in play, and once she has an outlet for her energy, she is more than happy to settle in and relax with her people.
Smudge is crate trained, housebroken, and walks well on leash, though she can become easily distracted by her environment. She is a high-energy, high-arousal dog who benefits from structure and consistency.
During her dog test, she entered quickly and enthusiastically with full wiggles and pushy greeting behavior. With time, she was able to settle and coexist appropriately within the group, including deferring to a correction from a grumpy senior dog.
Smudge will need continued work on impulse control and leash manners, as she can jump on handlers and pull strongly when excited.
Resource guarding over water bowls has also been noted in a dog-to-dog context within the shelter environment.
There is a significant behavior history involving prey drive. Smudge should not be placed in a home with small animals, including cats or small dogs. A previous incident in a home setting involved immediate contact with a cat without acclimation, resulting in the cat being grabbed and shaken. Because the extent of injury is unknown, extreme caution is strongly recommended, and she should only be considered for placements without small animals.
Smudge appears otherwise healthy, and a full medical summary can be provided upon request.
She will do best in a structured, experienced placement that can provide clear guidance, management, and appropriate outlets for her energy while continuing behavior support. Smudge has strong potential in the right environment with consistency, structure, and boundaries.
Please let us know if your organization can help!
Thank you,
The BARCS Rescue Team
rescue@barcs.org
Baltimore Animal Rescue & Care Shelter (BARCS)
2490 Giles Rd, Baltimore, MD 21225
rescue@barcs.org