Adoption Fee: $850

If you would like to apply to adopt please
download the application form.

If you would like to know more or have problems using a Microsoft Word document please email us.

NB: We do not rehome interstate or to applicants under 25. It is our policy not to rehome dogs in the Sunraysia area. As rescue groups have transported thousands of homeless dogs from Mildura and Sunraysia pounds over the last decade, we do not intend to send any back there.

Breed: Male Jack Russell Terrier
DOB: 24/10/2015
Weight: 6.8kgs
Location: Murrumbeena

Survivor Seeks Experienced Guide

Mighty Hamilton is a survivor of long-term physical and verbal abuse. Sadly, this boy learned to protect himself with aggression and reactivity. He has made impressive progress working with our trainers and carers, but some reactivity remains and may continue throughout Hamilton’s life. He is looking for people experienced with dogs with behavioural issues, who are up for the challenges and rewards of meeting his needs. Victorian Dog Rescue staff and trainers will be available to Hamilton’s adopters; we are all invested in seeing him and his people succeed. Hamilton is a people dog and – with the proper foundations in place – will share love and loyalty with his human(s).

Like most reactive dogs, Hamilton responds best when he feels secure and understands what is expected of him. This requires calm leadership from his people, including clear and consistent rules, respectful instruction and gentle praise and encouragement, and regular routines. These are as much acts of love as are cuddles and heavy displays of affection, and definitely the kind of love Hamilton needs. He seems to respond better to men, although calm and consistent leadership, rather than gender, is the key to winning this boy’s trust.

Hamilton needs a reasonably quiet adult-only home, with his own space to retreat to when he is overwhelmed. He has basic training and understands to go to his bed on instruction, with this technique used to manage his reactivity. Hamilton enjoys his daily walks – two if they are on offer – and is good on lead and crossing roads, only reacting to other dogs if they show aggression. This smart cookie also enjoys rewards-based games at home, and this is a great way to build trust with him. By day, Hamilton is currently spending time in an enclosed outdoor area with access to his carers’ studio. He does not need a huge amount of space, provided he receives regular exercise. Interestingly, Hamilton is an excellent guest at boarding kennels, getting on very well with other small dogs and being perfectly behaved with carers. This gives a hint of how much he values routine and the clarity of understanding what is expected of him.

Helping a damaged dog can be an incredibly rewarding experience, full of small wins that are felt by canine and carer(s) alike. Are you ready to be Hamilton’s life guide?

Thank you to Hamish of Appleby Photography for the fantastic photos of Hamilton.

Adult Home

Microchip Number: 943094320709579
Source Number: RE120211

All our dogs are desexed, C5 vaccinated with intranasal, microchipped, wormed, and flea treated. All necessary vetwork such as dentals, surgery, eye treatment are also carried out. We are no longer heartworm testing as we have not had one positive test since we began in 2006. If a dog comes to us on heartworm treatment this is continued.