McIvor

Who is McIvor?

 McIvor is an independent, older Jack Russel Terrier cross. We believe him to be approximately 8 years of age.  He is a black and white short-haired terrier with a few tan patches on his coat. 

Why did McIvor come into Battersea Dogs and Cats Home?

 McIvor came into the Home as a stray in November 2007. He is not yet neutered and will be microchipped before he leaves the Home.

Why was McIvor seen by the Behaviour Unit in the Home?

 McIvor is an older terrier who has shown a level of intolerance around older dogs.  Behaviour Staff feel that he is all for an easy life and when youngsters get too much for him he will look to control the situation with an unmistakable telling off.  That said, he is unlikely to take it any further and looks to avoid them once he has let his feelings be known.  McIvor can be lead-frustrated around other dogs showing this by being vocal.  Also, we feel that when he finds a new home he may show some territorial behaviour and therefore needs to be rehomed as the only dog in the home. A secondary issue is around handling, particularly formal handling.  He shows discomfort with stiff body posture, licking lips and flattening his ears.  Owners should be able to work successfully on this issue and on his interactions with dogs with training programs and advice from Behaviour Staff which owners must take on board.

What is McIvor like?

 McIvor could be seen to have an element of "grumpy old man" attitude about him, but really he is just set in his ways and looking for an untroubled life.  He can be quite aloof when initially meeting people but owners can expect him to become very loyal and to potter around after them.  Furthermore, he can be affectionate and actively seek hands-on attention.

What kind of home is McIvor looking for?

McIvor can live in a suburban or semi-rural environment as long as its parks are not too over-populated with other dogs.  He will need a house which is not overlooking a busy road as McIvor could begin to react towards people and dogs passing by.  He will need a secure garden which he can potter around in.  In terms of exercise McIvor will be happy with a low-activity level, a walk round the block and the garden.

What kind of owners is McIvor looking for?

 McIvor could live with a single carer as long as they have the right facilities and experience.  Owners would ideally have experience of owning older, intolerant dogs before, and to have come across and managed lead frustration issues in the past.  McIvor could live with children aged 14+ as long as they have experience and realistic expectations of him.  McIvor doens't enjoy being pestered so this must be considered.  Finally, owners should be willing to accept advice regarding training and managing McIvor in his new home. 

Owners should not expect to change McIvor's behaviour or character.  What you see is what you get; a dog who is set in his ways, who is often affectionate and resolutely loyal to those he knows.

I think I fit that criteria, what should I do next?

McIvor is at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home in London.   Please call the Behaviour Unit on 020 7627 7884 if you are interested in McIvor or email us on [email protected] and quote ref 2007/05695. To receive advice and guidance regarding this training from the Behaviour Unit staff that have worked with him, potential owners should be prepared to come into the Dogs Home for a minimum of two visits.  

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