Valais, a four-year-old pit bull mix, is in search of a permanent home after spending significant time in the care of 4 Luv of Dog Rescue in Moorhead. This strong canine, weighing between 80 to 90 pounds, possesses the characteristic strength of his breed, combined with a unique appearance reminiscent of a goat, which inspired his name. The name “Valais” refers to a breed of Swiss goat, the Valais Blackneck, known for its distinctive coloring.
According to Jerad Ryan, a volunteer and building coordinator for the rescue organization, Valais has a striking black eye patch on one side of his face and white markings that run down his chest, stomach, and front legs. His predominantly black body features a small white tip at the end of his tail. Ryan notes that Valais has been in the shelter since March 9, 2023, and has faced challenges in adapting to life in a kennel.
Adapting to Shelter Life
Initially, Valais was housed with other dogs, but his behavior towards them deteriorated, prompting the staff to move him to a separate kennel. Ryan explains, “He’d be going toward other kennels, not politely, and it was difficult to handle him.” This change was necessary to ensure a calmer environment for both Valais and the other dogs.
Ryan, who has volunteered with 4 Luv of Dog Rescue for over a decade, emphasizes the importance of fostering dogs. He believes that the kennel environment, while well-maintained, cannot replicate a home life. “We can’t live at a kennel forever. It can be an issue of deterioration living in a kennel environment,” he said. The shelter adopts out between 400 to 550 dogs annually, with the goal of providing dogs like Valais a chance to find a nurturing foster family.
Despite his size and strength, Valais has shown good behavior when leashed and is well-mannered during group walks with other dogs. Ryan highlights that volunteers conduct pack walks to give the dogs socialization opportunities in a public setting, and Valais has not exhibited any issues during these outings. “I’d say he’s doing really well for how long he’s been here,” Ryan noted.
Valais’s Personality and Adoption Potential
Valais enjoys spending time in his kennel, often sleeping to manage his stress. Ryan believes that in a home without other pets, Valais could thrive, providing companionship with plenty of nap time. “I do think if somebody is looking to go around the block for a walk and then take it easy the rest of the day, this would be the dog for them,” he said. Valais also engages in activities like tug-of-war and puzzle games, showcasing his playful side when he is not resting.
Before dogs are made available for adoption, there is typically a two-week waiting period to allow for recovery from spaying or neutering. During this time, the staff at 4 Luv of Dog Rescue takes the opportunity to learn more about each dog’s personality. Ryan has observed that Valais has a “calm demeanor” and excels at figuring out how to retrieve treats from interactive toys. This combination of traits makes Valais an appealing candidate for adoption.
Individuals interested in learning more about Valais, or about adoption and fostering opportunities, can visit 4luvofdog.org. The organization remains dedicated to finding loving homes for dogs in need, and with Valais waiting patiently, he hopes to be the next success story.
