Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs,
Needs special attention,
Spayed or Neutered,
Shots are up-to-date,
Story
*Ezekiel**
📍 Location: Decatur, IL
**NO SMALL CHILDREN UNDER 6**
Application: [leiashope.org](http://leiashope.org)
Ezekiel is a little guy surrendered to rescue due to having two open fontanelles. The smaller one has closed and the larger one is nearly closed, but it will likely remain for the rest of his life. An open fontanelle, or “soft spot,” means there is no bone protecting part of his brain, making him more susceptible to injury. Care must be taken to prevent hard hits or punctures (from teeth, claws, falls, or bumping into hard surfaces) to the top of his head.
Ezekiel is also believed to have **mild hydrocephalus** and has recently begun having seizures. He is now on **daily anti-seizure medication** to help manage them. Hydrocephalus affects his ability to be house trained — he is not house trained and frequently marks or has accidents indoors. This is a common side effect of hydrocephalus and not simply stubbornness, though he is otherwise an active, playful puppy who in many ways acts like a normal dog.
This spunky boy loves to play and can entertain himself, but he also enjoys romping with the foster’s gentle dogs. His favorite game is being chased — he’s very fast and sometimes slows down just so they can catch him before zooming off again. He’s especially attached to another toy poodle in the home and will follow him around begging for play.
Ezekiel sleeps in bed with his foster mom but may need to potty during the night, so he wears a belly band. With multiple dogs and puppies in the foster home, it’s challenging to catch him every time, so he’ll need an adopter who is very vigilant indoors.
He is a picky eater and often eats best when he thinks someone else wants his food. He eats in his crate because he is slow and can be food aggressive toward other dogs if they approach his meal. His diet includes a rotation of raw, freeze-dried, and some kibble to encourage eating.
While Ezekiel enjoys some cuddle time, he does not like being carried — he wiggles to get down, which is dangerous given his condition. He should be placed gently on the ground if he wants down.
**Requirements:**
* No small children under 6
* No large dogs in the home
* No mobility issues in the household
* Someone who understands his medical needs and can love him as he is
* Secure home environment to keep him safe
Ezekiel’s adoption fee is \$500. He is neutered, microchipped, current on vaccines, and on monthly flea and heartworm prevention.
📌 **Please Note:**
* We are volunteer-run and application processing can take 7–10 business days.
* All dogs are in foster homes, not at a central location. Approved application required before meet and greet.
* We do not ship or transport dogs — you must travel to the dog’s location.
**Dogs are a lifetime commitment. Please apply only if you can commit to his lifetime.**
