I know I've probably posted these before, and her story, but now I see that there is a new thread....and I can't pass up the chance to talk about my youngest pup.
This is Alexandria (also known as Alex). Most people, upon first glance, ask "is that a wolf? Is that a wolfdog? Is that a coyote? What is that..."
Well folks, the SPCA of Central Florida called her a 'Shepherd/Husky' mix. I've started calling her my little Siberian Shepherd (even though I know there are no such things - and no, I'm not one of those that wants to try and turn it into a 'designer breed'), but sometimes I call her my little coyote dog. She sounds so much like a coyote, too, that it sometimes make me double check when she's outside in the yard.
Anyway, enough of my blabbering. Here's her story:
Alexandria and her two sisters (the two sisters highly resembling pure-bred Siberian Huskies, only with a hint of the same sable coloring on parts of their bodies that my dearest Alex has) were apparently found by SPCA investigators upon entering an abandoned, foreclosed home. They were found as seven-week olds, but they were severely malnourished and fearful of everything. After they were fostered, they were placed in the sole custody of the SPCA organization, and spayed when they came of the correct age. It was at this point that all three of them were 'displayed' in the lobby of the SPCA, hoping someone would take in the three cuties. When the largest of the three finally went home (after two weeks of being contained in the lobby), the other two sisters (Alex included) were put in a kennel together. By this time, they were 4.5 months old and teething like beasts.
I'd been looking for a GSD or GSD mix, as I'd always wanted one (dare I even start making an endless list of reasons?). I'm a big believer in saving lives first, then turning to breeders. Nothing against pure-bred dogs or responsible breeders, I'm just a huge fan of mutts and rescues. Anyway, I'd almost turned around and left when I heard a high pitched yip from the corner. Turning to see a little blue-eyed husky puppy, I smiled, not able to resist going over to at least say hi. When a little black and brown mess trotted up from behind the pristine-looking husky pup, I about cried. Seriously, I wasn't sure why, but the funny-looking little dog called to me. I had to have her. After spending some time with the little ball of ugliness, I adopted her. She was so playful with her sister, but extremely timid when they brought her up to me. It took almost a month for that timidity to wear thinner and thinner, and she finally warmed up to me and my family. Now, almost eight months later, she's the mascot of our local Pet Supermarket. She couldn't be more loved.
Oh yeah.....and she's the poster child for my photography. I've only had her since this past October (2010) and I think I've got at least 2000 images I've photographed of her. And those are the ones that have made it past my 'keep or toss' stage. I love my baby! <3
Alexandria on the first evening I had her:
Her first venture in the yard:
My baby today:
Aaaand her famous 'wolf-stare-imma-eat-you-look' lol: