Kieran Australian Kelpie & Retriever Mix Cincinnati, OH

Kieran is lucky to be alive. His former owner moved, leaving three dogs tied in the yard, castoff like old tires. Thank the powers that be, they were rescued before dying of dehydration, coyote attack or some other unthinkable fate. STAF is grateful to have this neglected young boy safe in our care, where we can start teaching him what it feels like to be loved and cared for.

Recently, Kieran got to spend a week away from the shelter, in the comfort of a real home. Here's some firsthand insight from his host-family: "He's been an amazing companion and will make a great addition to any household. He got along well with the cats, showing interest but respecting their boundaries. (Tho he was very interested in their food!) He made no attempt to jump the fence or get away at all. He was quiet for the most part, only occasionally barking at passers-by. He was well behaved on walks and wonderful on car rides. We think he would get along well with any other pets, especially someone to run around and play with. He adjusted easily and seemed comfortable after only a couple days. He's perfectly housebroken, the only issue was with marking the first day and he stopped after a few corrections. Given his past, he lacks some household manners and would do well with some obedience training and positive reinforcement. He's food motivated and loves treats so I think training would be easy."

Weighing in around 50 pounds and only a year old, this sweet boy is eager and grateful for touch and attention. He likes to venture out and explore the world. If you do, too, and you have an opening for a canine pal, please contact us!

• All of our animals are spayed/neutered and current on shots.
• We do not do same-day adoptions; we ask that you return for a follow-up visit before taking an animal home.
• You must be 21 years or older to adopt from STAF.
• We require a 4-foot-tall physical fence for homes with children under the age of 11. We also may require a physical fence for specific dogs on a case-by-case basis, depending on each dog’s behavior and exercise needs.
• Invisible fences: Due in part to increasing coyote activity/incidents in the area and the difficulty of predicting how a dog will respond to invisible fence training, we cannot adopt to homes with invisible fences unless otherwise noted in a dog’s profile.
• We do request vet and personal references.
• We can facilitate adoptions within a 75-mile radius of our Cincinnati-based shelter.

Please visit www.STAF.org for visiting hours, a downloadable application, and additional information.