Mr. Handsome Chico - Chihuahua and Rat Terrier Dog for Adoption in Ridgefield, Washington

My name is Chico.

I am 5 years old Chihuahua / Rat Terrier mix, weigh just 11 pounds, but I've lived through some pretty big things.

I'm neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, and healthy, but the thing I want most isn't found in a medical chart.
Its found in a family...
a lap...
a warm voice...
a safe place to rest my head.

I am travelling from Southern California to live with my foster family in Ridgefield, WA by the end of June. I also can travel to Vancouver, BC if there is a potential adopter for me. My adoption fee is $800USD

Adoption Application Link:

https://forms.gle/rh4RkabUr7fYkRDV9

(If not clickable, copy & paste into your browser)

Here is my story:

Not long ago, I found myself sitting alone in a shelter. The noises were loud. The kennels were crowded. Strange people walked by every day. Strange dogs barked all night. I didn't understand where my family had gone or why I was there.

I was scared.

Really scared.

When you're a little dog in a place like that, the world feels enormous. Every sound feels louder. Every shadow feels bigger. Every day feels longer.

The people at the shelter said I was fearful.

And they were right.

But what they didn't understand was that I wasn't afraid because I was a bad dog.

I was afraid because my heart had been broken.

Somewhere along the way, I had lost everything familiar. The people I trusted were gone. The life I knew was gone. I didn't know if anyone would ever come for me again.

Then one day, I heard something that no dog should ever hear.

My time was running out.

I don't know exactly what happened next. I just know that someone saw me.

Not the scared dog hiding in the corner.

Not the dog labeled "fearful."

They saw me.

The real me.

The little guy who just needed a chance.

And they saved my life.

The funny thing is, once I feel safe, I'm actually not shy at all.

Give me a few minutes to figure you out, and I'll be your shadow for life.

I'll follow you from room to room.

I'll supervise every household project.

I'll make sure you never have to go to the bathroom alone again. (You're welcome.)

I'll sit beside you while you watch TV.

I'll nap next to your desk while you work.

I'll wait patiently for you to wake up each morning because another day with my favorite person is the best gift I can imagine.

You see, I don't need much.

I don't need fancy toys.

I don't need a huge backyard.

I don't need adventures every weekend.

What I want more than anything is a person to love.

A person who won't give up on me.

A person who understands that sometimes brave dogs were once scared dogs.

A person who sees that beneath my cautious first impression is a heart overflowing with loyalty.

I've learned that life can change in an instant.

One day you're sitting in a shelter wondering if anyone will ever love you again.

The next day you're dreaming about a forever home.

Maybe that's why I don't take love for granted.

Maybe that's why I love with my whole heart.

Because I know how precious it is.

So if you're looking for a little companion who will stick by your side through good days, bad days, and everything in between...

I'm right here.

Waiting.

Saving a spot for you beside me.

Love,

Chico

P.S. If you already have calm, mature dog friends, that's wonderful. But if you're a wild puppy who likes to run laps around the house, we may need to have a conversation about proper household conduct. Someone has to be the Fun Police.

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.

The Rat Terrier is a lively and intelligent breed known for its versatility and agility. With a compact and muscular build, these dogs are energetic and make excellent companions for active individuals and families. Rat Terriers are adept at a variety of activities, from hunting to obedience training, thanks to their keen intelligence and eager to please nature. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, making them low maintenance pets. Overall, the Rat Terrier is a spirited and loyal breed, well suited to various lifestyles.

There is a sign hanging on my house front door with a note " Saving a dog won't change the...