Rusty was born to a back-yard breeder in Idaho who sold him to someone who had never owned a Vizsla before. When confronted with the antics and energy of a Vizsla puppy, the owner’s response was to crate Rusty for most of the day and night in the garage, away from the family. This went on for three years until the owner gave Rusty to Vizsla rescue, where he was eventually adopted out to a woman who worked with him. Unfortunately, though, his issues proved to be too much and he returned to Vizsla rescue.

His transition to the Vizsla Rescue Haven was rough because he did not cope well with change. Prozac proved ineffective and his behavior became more erratic. The Vizsla Rescue Haven took Rusty to the behavior unit at the School of Veterinary Medicine at University of California, Davis. After several visits, Rusty was diagnosed as a reactive biter and prescribed Zoloft. The new medicine worked and Rusty was able to enjoy life and accept his new home at the Haven. More than two years later, Rusty gets along well with other Vizslas and loves to play chase and tug of war. And, he now seeks affection and loves belly rubs and ear massages, in true Vizsla fashion.