Paquito FKA Patrick - Chihuahua Dog for Adoption in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Patrick ACCT-A-165897 is a 5-year-old male who came in as a stray on 6/3. The finder noted that Patrick was shy, scared, quiet and tried to bite.

Behavior Notes:

On 6/3 staff noted: Patient is fearful in cage but warms up just fine if you go slow and talk nicely(baby- talk). Patrick was a very good boy for his exam. He was very fearful when approaching his cage. He gave whale eyes but no signs of aggression, just fear. He like baby talk and eventually came over to me. Over a few minutes he became comfortable with me and was enjoying pets, allowed me to pick him up with no reservation. He was skipping around in surgery room with no reservation(no limping noted). Although we muzzled him for his vaccines just to be safe, Patrick did great with no aggressive behavior. He let me manipulate and examine everything and even expressed his anal glands(externally). He got more and more comfortable with me and by the time I put him back in his cage, he was soliciting affection. Still no interest in eating food/treats, only sniffed.

On 6/3 staff noted: Came to see Patrick twice this afternoon. Both times found him curled up for a nap, but easily roused, inquisitive, quiet, slightly tentative. Tail was still (but would wag in response to baby talk), ears mostly down, gaze mostly averted. But he perked up a bit when offered Fresh Pet, sniffing at it in my hand, though not eating any. Finicked a bit throughout, sitting down, laying down, itching at his collar, and sometimes approaching the open door of his kennel as though we was expecting to be taken out. No reactivity / defensiveness noted.

On 6/3 staff noted: Adding adult preferred at this time as Patrick is very growly in kennel and seems fearful

Medical Notes:

On 6/3 during an intake exam staff noted: "Patrick was bright, alert and responsive, scared at first but warmed up after a few mins and allowed me to carry him. Walking around cage fine, no noticeable limp. Light calculus build up on back teeth. FAD along dorsum, live fleas noted, L anal sac expressed externally - was very full (a.gland material was thick). Ambulatory x 4, appears to be "tip-toeing" on back R just slightly, After exam and restraint for vaccines, Pt was ever so slightly holding up L front when in cage but no pain noted on palpation; looks like elbow sticks out a little bit from body

Videos

Patrick and Pickles meet: https://youtube.com/shorts/2UFD91myDJ8?feature=share

The Chihuahua is a small breed famous for its confidence, loyalty, and big personality, despite its tiny size. Originating from Mexico, these dogs are known for their large, expressive eyes and alert, curious nature. Chihuahuas make excellent companions, forming strong bonds with their owners and displaying a protective nature. They come in a variety of coat colors and patterns, with both long and short coats, making them a diverse and adorable addition to any family.

Animal Care & Control Team of Philadelphia is the region's largest high-volume, open-admission animal shelter.  Open every single day of...