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Posted over 7 months ago
| Updated over 7 months ago
I found a new home! Plenty of my friends are looking for one too. Check out other pets at this shelter, or start a new search.
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My basic info
Breed
Shih Tzu
Color
Tan/Yellow/Fawn
Age
5 years 7 months old, Adult
Size
Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less (when grown)
Weight
12 lbs (current)
Sex
Female
Pet ID
–
My details
Good with dogs
Purebred
Shots current
My story
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Here's what the humans have to say about me:
In addition to the following profile for this dog, please first read the Adoption Information at http://www.shihtzurescuemn.org/adopt.html to understand the process, requirements and timeline for adoption. An adoption application can also be found in the Adoption Info section. If, after reading that information, you have any questions, please submit your question via e-mail and it will be answered. Please do not request a phone call. A personal phone call will only be made when an adoption application has been submitted and the foster parent wishes to consider the application. Thank you.
Fiona is a sweet, shy 5 year old, 12 pound, female ShihTzu. She came into the rescue as a neglected puppy mill dog. She is nervous and startles easily, but loves to be gently petted and scratched and she is quickly experiencing how wonderful it is to live with a family instead of being caged. She is a very lovable little girl who is learning how to play with her foster sisters. She has begun to chase them, swat at them and engage in doggie play. She loves to snuggle with her foster family on the couch at night, and she sleeps in a kennel at night and is very comfortable.
Fiona would be best in a home with someone who is home most of the day. She has not been observed with small children, and we do not advise that she be adopted by a family with children under the age of ten. An established small dog in the home would be wonderful to help teach Fiona how to become a family dog. She watches her foster siblings and catches on fast, but is still adjusting to a home with humans and other small dogs.
House training is coming along well, but she still has some accidents and her new family must accept this and commit to training her. Fiona needs to be let out on a regular schedule and often! Her new family needs to be patient and comprehend that Fiona was forced to eliminate in her cage, was never let outside, and doesn’t know the difference between “outside” and “inside”. So someone who can be home with her most of the day and can frequently take her outside is crucial to her becoming housetrained. Fiona has much to learn about living in a normal world outside a puppy mill. This includes not just living with a family, but also general activities such as walking on a leash, and being exposed to unknown experiences. A patient, understanding family who will help her learn and feel safe is a must.
The following are requirements for Fiona’s new family:
1. Since Fiona is a puppy mill dog who has had little positive interaction with humans, her new family must be experienced, understanding of fearful dogs and committed to using positive, loving reinforcement training methods.
2. Fiona is unable to navigate stairs or jump on couches/beds at this time (she never learned about stairs in the puppy mill) so her adopters must be able to physically carry her (12 pounds) until she learns to do so.
3. Because Fiona is hesitant and cautious in most interactions, her new adoptive family should be adults only or a home with children (10 years or older) who can understand that Fiona will not be a loud, active playmate. Another small dog would be a great influence and reassuring influence for her.
4. Fiona needs a home where someone is home a lot of the day. She has some separation anxiety, and she will need lots of attention and training in a positive, supportive environment. A family who is experienced with fearful dogs and separation anxiety would be ideal.
5. Family must be able to meet the physical and financial requirements of maintaining a dog, including regular vetting, grooming and continuing to feed her a high-quality dog food diet (no human food).
6. A fenced-in yard is preferred, but not required, but she must always be observed while being let out.
7. Adoptive family should live within 50 miles of the Twin City area so Fiona’s foster mom can visit.
8. Family agrees to attend the annual Shih Tzu Rescue Reunion in September.
Fiona is current on vaccinations, microchipped and on heartworm preventative. She will be spayed and having a dental by June 7, 2024 and will be available for adoption after that date. However, applications are being accepted and recommended before then so that all of the preliminary adoption process can be completed (reference checks, home visit) and her adoption can occur immediately after a brief recovery period. Fiona’s adoption fee is $320.00 plus $27.28 in sales tax for a total of $347.28.
To meet Fiona, please complete an adoption application at the website listed in the first paragraph. Or you can also see her and the other dogs available for adoption from the Shih Tzu Rescue of Minnesota by visiting with us from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM the first Saturday of every month at the Southtown Petco, 7995 Southtown Dr, Minneapolis, MN 55431.
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