My name is Chaco and I'm a 9 lb., 1 1/2 year old male Shih Tzu/Terrier mix. I've
been in rescue for many months and you might wonder why as I am so extremely cute. I am affectionate,
playful, and fun. My foster family thinks I am awesome. The things I love are: toys, lots and lots of
toys; good bones to chew on; dog treats; my "nest" bed; a lap to snuggle on; a secure fenced yard; and
chasing squirrels. Oh yeah, and just one more thing I love... love to go for rides in the car and behave wonderfully!
Now, before you go and fill out an adoption application for me because I sound like the perfect dog,
my foster mom (who loves me dearly) says that I have to be honest about some of my "issues".
I was not socialized before I was rescued. I am almost perfect in my foster home and I get along well
with my foster family's Golden Retrievers. I have also loved playing with the other foster dogs who
have come to our house - puppies and a young Chihuahua. My foster mom is very careful when she introduces
me to new dogs but, once I accept them, we have a great time. My problem is that I can go into a "red
haze" zone when confronted with some situations and is it unpredictable when this might happen. Thanks
to SBRET I was sent to a wonderful dog trainer at PetSafe Village, Mike Shafer. I can't tell you how
much more comfortable I am now when meeting new dogs. He is teaching me appropriate behavior in a very
positive way. I will continue to work with my new best friend, Mike, and he has agreed to talk with the
family who adopts me. I positively cannot go to a family with children since I am distrustful of them.
We are working on this but I have to be closely supervised.
So, to sum up - I need a forever family who is willing to continue to work with me. I need my
socialization to continue. I would like to be in a family where someone is home a lot, and a fenced
yard is imperative as I am an active dog and need the chance to run around. I am a "work in
progress" behaviorally but have so many wonderful qualities I am worth the effort. I love my people
and promise to be a very loyal and fun companion. My adoption fee is $175.
