by Lee Juslin

At eleven and a half, Bentley is certainly a senior Scottie, but since no one had explained that to him, he looks and acts like a puppy.

An owner turn-in from a family who had gotten him as a puppy, Bentley had no big health issues when he came into NY/NJ Scottie Rescue. However, he was not up to date on his vaccines and he had several bad teeth that gave his mouth an unpleasant odor. Erica from the rescue took him into the group’s vet. They did a full work-up on Bentley including X-rays to see if there were signs of any hidden masses or problems, and a full blood panel. Bentley passed with flying colors.

Bentley

“We wanted to be sure he didn’t have any issues,” said Erica, “as he would need a dental and that requires anesthesia. I’m not clear why his owners released him except they did say their grandson had allergies. I know it will be difficult to place this older boy, but he is a joy and has a lot of love to give.”

Bentley loves long walks, playing with toys and interacting with his humans. Although his haircut is shorter than the usual Scottie trim, Erica says he is a beautiful Scottie and she thinks he came from a breeder rather than a puppy mill.

Bentley does seem to prefer women but is not afraid of or aggressive with men. A good home for Bentley would be one with an older, but still active woman for those long walks that Bentley loves. He needs someone who is retired, works part time or works at home. Bentley doesn’t exhibit separation anxiety and, while he’s not a lap dog, he does seem to enjoy having someone in the house with him. He does like to sleep with his human.

Bentley is always eager to walk but a fenced yard would help for those times when a walk is not possible. He may be okay with another dog, but he would enjoy being an only dog. He does not seem to be experienced with children, but Scotties often don’t do well with young children so a home with only an adult(s) would be best.

Bentley is a happy, tail wagging boy who is a joy to have around!

Author’s Note: We’ve said it before but, in light of Bentley’s story, it is worth saying again: having a dog is a commitment for the life of the dog. If you don’t have the finances or resources to care for a dog as he moves though the various life stages; if you’re not willing to put yourself second for the good of the dog, then you shouldn’t have a dog. Period.

For some people who can not take full responsibility for a dog, fostering for a legitimate rescue organization may be a way to enjoy the company of a dog and, at the same time, help a dog that otherwise might be put down.

Learn more about Bentley and his pals in Scottie Rescue, volunteer, apply to adopt a rescue or make a much needed donation. Rescues, as 501C3 organizations, depend on volunteers and donations from supporters. Visit the Greater NY/NJ Scottie Rescue on their Facebook page or their website.

Check out more animal rescue & therapy animal stories in our Pets section.

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Lee Juslin is a free lance copywriter living in North Carolina with her husband, Scott, and her band of misfits: Tarquin, a Wheaten Scottish Terrier, and three handicapped cats. They can be seen on their website: Hampshire Hooligans. She owns I B Dog Gone, a small embroidery business and is the author of the Nurse Frosty books for children and Frosty’s Story: Tales of a Therapy Dog. She supports a number of national and regional terrier rescue organizations.