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Weight: 33Lbs

Meet Gus — a golden retriever pup with a tender heart and a story that deserves a softer ending. He arrived in early August 2025 from Kokomo Humane Society, hopeful and ready to belong, but after being adopted, Gus was trained with a shock collar. Instead of learning confidence, he learned fear. For a sensitive soul like Gus, that kind of training can make the world feel unpredictable and unsafe, and he’s still unlearning those lessons at his own pace.

Gus needs stability, patience, and positive reinforcement only — gentle guidance is where he shines. He does resource guard, so in a home with other animals he’ll need to eat separately, and it’s important that kids don’t grab at his food or toys. These simple boundaries help Gus relax and feel secure.

Now for the good stuff: when food isn’t in the picture and once he knows you’re safe, Gus transforms into the sweetest, goofiest golden boy. He’s playful, affectionate, and a little treat-motivated (okay, maybe more than a little), which makes training a fun bonding adventure. Gus isn’t asking for perfection — just someone willing to go slow, laugh with him, and show him that love doesn’t hurt. 💛

Dogs: Please bring any pups in to meet him, and keep the resource guarding in mind!!
Cats: Unknown
Kids: Please bring the whole family in to meet him, and keep the resource guarding in mind!!