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Family Adopted Foster-Dog Even When Vet ‘Cautioned’ That He’s Mentally Challenged

Written by: Dee Michaels
Dee Michaels is a passionate and accomplished writer, renowned for his heartwarming and engaging stories on IHeartDogs.com.Read more
| Published on May 1, 2023

Stanley’s personality was evident from the start, and it was certainly different. However, this was something a little unusual, and the quirks were a little concerning. Stanley’s parents adopted him but began to worry about their dog shortly thereafter. Stanley, a Golden Retriever, was quite friendly, loving, and physically healthy; however, there seemed to be much more to his tale.

Stanley was rescued from the Golden Retriever Rescue of Mid-Florida and was already known to be a bit unusual. When they picked him up from his foster home, he was snoozing on the table.

Image/Story Source Credit: Imgur

 

However, they quickly fell in love with Stanley despite his quirks and decided to take him home. Stanley got along with their kids and the other pets right away.

 

Image/Story Source Credit: Imgur

 

But Stanley’s mom and dad became concerned about their new dog. They had success in the past training other dogs, but Stanley was different. They worried he may injure himself climbing onto counters and tables.

 

Image/Story Source Credit: Imgur

Stanley wasn’t deaf, but he never responded to his name being called. Two trainers were hired but eventually quit on him. And the one suggested the dog may be mentally challenged.

The family took this seriously and studied his behavior patterns even more. They discovered an obsessive-compulsive routine where Stanley would constantly gather a slipper, remote, and stuffed animal together daily.

 

Image/Story Source Credit: Imgur

They decided to test Stanley with a dog IQ test they heard about from a friend, and he failed at getting out from under a blanket, responding to his name, and finding the treat inside a cup.

 

Image/Story Source Credit: Imgur

 

The vet agreed with the assessment and said that the dog’s challenges could result from inbreeding and stubbornness.

 

Image/Story Source Credit: Imgur

 

It may never be revealed why exactly Stanley acts the way he does, but it’s not something for his family to worry about. He’s physically healthy and surrounded by lots of love!

His owner said,

“He may be a bit slow, but his silly quirks, good nature, and odd little personality makes us love him even more.”

 

You must love that Stanley is getting a fair shot at life regardless of his challenges. Every dog deserves love and happiness!

 

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