About *ROCKY Please read bio

**Please scroll down and read the entire bio before emailing with questions. We will not respond to emails that ask questions already in the bio of the pet or generic questions of 'how old is it?', 'can I get more information?', 'oh it's so cute', etc. You must fill out an application in order to schedule an appointment. Here is a link to our online application https://almosthomenm.rescueivey.com/apply/adopt The application can also be found and downloaded from our main website https://almosthomenm.org/available-for-adoption More photos can also be seen on our facebook page 'Almost Home New Mexico' Once you have filled out an application please watch your emails to schedule an appointment. Please be aware we do not hold dogs until an appointment to meet them is scheduled. Very sweet male Shih Tzu mix Approximate DOB 8/1/2024 - About 14 lbs This boy was scheduled for euthanasia at a local shelter after he was not reclaimed or adopted. He got listed and we had until 9 am the following day to get him out of there. Some amazing volunteers with the help of an amazing rescuer and our contact in that area were able to get to him by 8 am that morning to spring him and get him on the road to us. He came in with his brother Ollie and initially we had them together however it has become very apparent that they just can't get along. Both dogs were severely matted and dirty when the shelter got them so they did shave off the bigger mats on both thank goodness as from their original photos it looks like they had almost like matted blankets dragging behind them and covering them up. We are so grateful to the shelters who take a little time from their day to make the dogs in their care a little more comfortable. Anyway, Rocky is just a very sweet, very scared baby who is slowly learning what it means to be loved. When they got here neither understood what it meant to be talked to but with lots of treats, repetition, and love they are learning what it means when people talk to them. These were more than likely outdoor dogs so definitely should be watched and crated when inside their new home so they learn the rules. But they are learning fast and have made so much progress. Rocky is what is considered a pancake dog- he just pancakes to the ground anytime anyone goes near him. It is very sad but he is slowly learning that nobody will hurt him and that he can trust. He still runs from us but he has learned 'here' means he should come to us to get a treat. Slowly but surely he will learn what love and a family means. He will need a special adopter to continue building his trust and confidence. Rocky is making progress. He now wags his tail and follows me around the property. However, he still runs from me and will only allow me to hold or pet him if he is cornered and then he pancakes or lately he has started to stand just out of reach and barks to ask me to toss a treat his way. So he is doing better but we still don't recommend him for anyone wanting an instant connection or someone wanting a pet for children. This is not the guy - he may be good for an older child that really loves dogs and wants a dog who really needs a special, patient, loving home that they can help. I do think in time he will bond very strongly and become very playful but he is just not there yet. He is still young though and many of these shy babies tend to bond with their family staying close by their side where they are safe and yes they learn to play with toys and their people but he may always have a slight fear as he is very submissive. He has started joining the pack so he can learn from them but he will take work. Please be aware this isn't the type of dog you can come meet and they are going to go up to you wagging their tail for attention or be scared initially and then will slowly climb onto your lap after an hour and then you will walk out with them on leash. This is a dog who will be scared during the meet and greet and will need to be carried but preferably crated when leaving and may take a couple weeks to start trusting you. He's a lovely boy and still young and trainable - he is definitely proving to be worth the effort (but to me every dog is deserving soooo take that as you will). He is lovely and sweet and really trying to trust but whatever has happened in his past just has him a little worried to trust people but once that light bulb flickers and he realizes how wonderful life and people are he will definitely make someone an awesome little companion.. Both boys have been professionally groomed (huge thanks to Day of the Dog Grooming in Los Lunas) and have now had their medical completed and are looking for their happily ever afters. We will be updating these posts the longer they are with us. Neutered, microchipped, and current on all vaccinations - Adoption fee $250 includes paperwork, a gallon bag of food he is currently eating, a collar, and a leash. We do welcome out-of-state adoptions.

Valencia County
Peralta, New Mexico 87042