Chip and Patch (Bonded Pair) - Shih Tzu and Havanese Dog for Adoption in Suffolk, Virginia

**APPLICATION REQUIRED BEFORE AN ADOPTION CAN BE CONSIDERED**

Meet Chip & Patch!

A bonded pair looking for a home together

Chip and Patch are two little 2-year-old neutered males, each weighing approximately 11–13 pounds. These sweet boys have been through a lot of change together, and their bond has become an important source of comfort and security. Because they are bonded, Chip and Patch must be adopted together.

The boys came to Suffolk Humane Society after their owner was hospitalized. They had lived without regular veterinary care or grooming, and their coats had become severely matted. Suffolk Humane Society has fully vetted both dogs and is providing the medical care, grooming, and patient support they need as they begin this new chapter.

Their coats required extensive grooming to safely remove the severe matting. Some areas had to be shaved close to the skin, while other areas required careful work to remove the mats. Their fur will grow back, and regular grooming will be an important part of keeping them comfortable and healthy.

Chip and Patch are still adjusting to life outside of their previous circumstances. They can be cautious and reserved, particularly when faced with unfamiliar people or situations. They are learning about household routines, human interaction, and what it means to feel safe. As they become more comfortable, we expect more of their individual personalities to emerge.

Having each other has been especially important during this transition. They can provide one another with reassurance as they navigate new experiences, which is one of the reasons we want them to continue their journey together.

Both boys are working on potty training and will need adopters who understand that this process will take time, patience, and consistency. They are learning every day, and their progress will continue with a predictable routine and individual attention.

Chip and Patch are looking for a patient, compassionate family who understands that earning their trust will be a process rather than an event. Their adopter should be prepared to give them time to settle in, celebrate small steps forward, and allow them to build confidence at their own pace.

A securely fenced yard is required and both dogs will go home with clip-style martingale collars because they may make sudden movements when startled. Children under 10 may not be the best match for this pair, depending on the individual circumstances of the home.

Because Chip and Patch are still gaining confidence, some information about their behavior may change as they become more comfortable and their personalities emerge. Their foster family can provide the most current information about their progress. In some circumstances, a visit in the foster's home may be arranged to help determine whether they are a good match for your family.

These two little boys have already been through a tremendous amount of change. Now they have the opportunity to start over together, in a home where they can finally feel safe, loved, and cared for.

Adoption Requirements

* Completed adoption application required
* **Chip and Patch must be adopted together**
* $210 adoption fee
* Home visit
* Veterinary reference
* Securely fenced yard
* Commitment to patience, consistency, continued potty training, and regular grooming

Suffolk Humane Society will contact applicants who have completed an application. Please visit www.SuffolkHumaneSociety.com and select “Adopt” to complete an online application.

The Havanese is a charming toy breed known for its lively and affectionate nature. Originating from Cuba, this small dog is characterized by its long, flowing coat, playful personality, and intelligence. Havanese dogs are adaptable to various living environments, making them well suited companions for both city dwellers and suburban families. They thrive on human companionship, excel in obedience training, and are often described as "velcro dogs" for their tendency to stick close to their owners. With a distinctive springy gait and a friendly disposition, the Havanese is an ideal choice for families seeking a loving and loyal canine companion.

The Shih Tzu is a small, affectionate dog breed known for its distinctive appearance, with a luxurious double coat, a short muzzle, and large round eyes. Originally bred as companion dogs for Chinese royalty, Shih Tzus are friendly, outgoing, and loving pets. They are known for their playful and charming personality, making them great family pets and suitable for apartment living. With their low shedding coat and adorable face, Shih Tzus are popular among dog lovers worldwide.

The Mission of the Suffolk Humane Society is to promote the human-animal bond and reduce pet overpopulation through: Advocacy for...