LOUISE - Chihuahua (medium coat) Dog For Adoption LOUISE - Chihuahua Female Dog For Adoption in Springfield, Massachusetts, USA

Dog Breed: Chihuahua (medium coat).

Thelma and Louise are a cat and a dog that came to TJO together and have been inseparable! Found huddled together on a porch, they have found comfort and security in each other during this new chapter, and would love to extend their friendship to include a new family. OTHER PETS: Louise came in with a cat and has some experience with other pets in the home. However, she tends to avoid other dogs, so as with any new family member she'll need a slow introduction to a new home. A mellow, well-socialized dog will the best fit for both Louise and Thelma as they adjust. [Case-By-Case (Dogs Must Meet First)] OWNER EXPERIENCE: Experience with positive reinforcement, or willingness to learn would be the ideal match. While Thelma tends to be more open to meeting new people, Louise is what we call a chicken little--a dog that is easily scared by new sounds, people, and objects in her environment. It's important to be able to read body language and recognize fear to help her feel more comfortable in a new home, while giving time and plenty of space. They'll both need time to properly settle into a new home and fully decompress, so limiting guests and keeping outings short and close to home will help them adjust. [Some Experience] KIDS: Louise would likely be able to get along with younger people in the house but as a nervous dog, she would not be a fit for children in the house younger than 13. She also has shown some subtle signs of possible resource guarding of food, so trading up and leaving food alone is safest and will help reassure her she can keep her favorite things. Minors should be actively supervised at all times to keep everyone comfortable and safe. [13+ / Dog Savvy] ACTIVITY LEVEL: Louise loves exploring and spending time with people she trusts. She hasn't shown a high level of energy while at the shelter, but she will still need regular exercise combined with mental enrichment such as food puzzles, games, sniffing, and learning fun tricks to meet her needs and prevent boredom. She also enjoys sitting on laps with those she feels comfortable with, but it's important to allow her to approach and make that choice. Thelma has been very social with the people around her, but so far has preferred spending her time on a comfy chair than running across a room. [Couch Potato / Good Walking Buddy] VETERINARY CARE: Louise will need some dental work before she's fully adopted, which will be done here. After that, regular visits to the vet will help keep her in her best health. Thelma has been given a clean bill of health during her stay at TJO. [Routine] LEVEL OF TRAINING NEEDED: [Minimal] Positive reinforcement will help Louise bond with her guardian and build confidence while learning new skills and fun tricks. GROOMING: Regular brushing will help to reduce shedding in the house. [Minimal]