Nora

About Nora

Nora is an 11-year-old, 53-pound Labrador Mix who is eligible to join the foster-to-adopt program. To express interest, email fostertoadopt@socialteesnyc.org with the animal's name in the subject line. To adopt directly, submit an application at socialteesnyc.org.

Foster Parent's Description

Nora is a delightful senior dog who's stealing hearts wherever she goes. At 11 years young and 50 pounds of pure affection, Nora is the epitome of timeless beauty with her glossy black fur and soulful eyes. Despite her age, Nora's spirit remains as vibrant as ever, greeting you with enthusiastic tail wags that could brighten even the gloomiest of days. She's a true gem who still exudes the energy and playfulness of a puppy, reveling in walks, squeaky toys, and, above all, cuddles. Nora is the ultimate Velcro dog, always by your side and eager to bask in your presence, whether it's snuggling at your feet while you work or keeping watch by your bedside (though she's polite enough not to jump on the bed). Her sociable nature extends to her canine companions, as she gracefully invites playtime with a gentle laydown, signaling her friendly intentions. As a Labrador mix, Nora has a natural affinity for water, adding an extra splash of fun to her adventures. She would be a perfect match for a family who loves beaches or who could take her for a swim, as the water could also be beneficial for her hips at her age. While she could benefit from a few extra pounds and some leash manners, Nora's charm knows no bounds. Whoever opens their heart to Nora will be rewarded with boundless love and endless tail wags.

Daily Routine

• Morning walk: 10-minute stroll at 8 am
• Midday walk: 10 minutes between 12 pm and 2 pm
• Main walk: 20-30 minutes in the late afternoon around 5-6 pm
• Nighttime walk: 10 pm

Experience Level Needed

Flexible. This dog is predicted to be low on the challenge scale with regard to exercise and mental stimulation requirements, but seniors tend to need a lot of help and understanding when it comes to lifestyle and veterinary issues. Seniors usually need quiet, calm environments and routines and do not do well with a lot of bustle, change, and rambunctious movement (kids and young playful dogs, for instance). This dog's adopter will need to be prepared for senior health challenges, which usually come with expensive veterinary bills and time in vet offices. Senior care can also take an emotional toll on their humans. Adopting a mature pup is a wonderful thing to do, but it can also be difficult.

Temperament & Behavior

• Energy level: Medium — Needs a daily 60-90 minute walk in addition to potty break strolls (10-30 min each). Also needs socializing opportunities outside the home and a little mental stimulation at home like tricks training practice or chew items.
• Potty trained? Yes. Seniors usually are, but all will have transitional accidents for the first week or so. Seniors tend to need potty breaks more often than younger dogs though, and they can lose their ability to fully control their potty habits as they continue to age, so willingness to be flexible with cleanup and wee pads if necessary is important.
• Cuddle Bug Level: High — Wants to be in your lap pretty much all the time
• Comfy with strangers? Yep — Wants to be friends with everyone who walks by, super social butterfly, loves anyone who will stop to say hello.
• Good with children? Yes for 12 and up — may be a little energetic or a little skittish, best with older children that can be extra gentle or that are big enough not to get accidentally knocked down
• Good with other dogs? Yes — In a foster home with another dog and has done a great job living with another animal.
• Good with other animals? Yes — Seems to get along with other animals, either tries to play with them or is mostly uninterested
• Mouthy behavior? Low — Little to no interest in chewing on stuff or putting things in its mouth that aren't food. Doesn't try to chew on hands, feet, etc. during playtime, doesn't wreck your stuff, only chews on appropriate things like dog toys and bones.
• Leash manners? Learning how to be a good leash walker.
• Okay in the city? Yes — Seems unfazed by the sights and sounds, they may as well have been born here. Nora's no longer fazed by traffic and definitely more comfortable in the elevator now.
• Jumping on people to say hi? Medium — Jumps up only on people the dog knows when really excited. Stops with correction.
• Separation Anxiety: Low — Completely fine being left home alone. Doesn't cry or do anything destructive when you leave. After settling in for a few days, Nora has stopped barking when we leave.
• Crate Trained: Not at all — Don't even have one, puppy proofed and free range.