Westin

My story

Meet Westin The Spicy Football, Looking for His Forever Home! Westin is a 7.5 to 8 year-old, 18-pound French Bulldog with a big personality and an even bigger heart once you earn his trust. His journey has been nothing short of heartbreaking. After his owner passed away, Westin was surrendered to Long Beach Animal Shelter, where he struggled to adjust. Can you imagine how terrified he was? From a familiar home to a loud, unfamiliar shelter, surrounded by strangers it was overwhelming for him. Westin’s Journey Westin was extremely guarded and fearful at the shelter, allowing only one employee near him. When we picked him up, he refused to be handled, so he was carefully crated for transport. Once we arrived at our hotel, we gave him space with no pressure, and zero expectations, just time to decompress. Slowly, we watched his walls come down. He was great with the other dog we had with us. He chose to engage on his own terms. He took treats and even climbed onto Mo’s lap, but not without some growling! Westin has continued to make progress, though he remains independent and strong-willed. He mostly keeps to himself, preferring to observe rather than actively engage with other dogs. He is warming up though!! His favorite spot? Right next to Mo, watching the playful chaos unfold. Whether she is at her desk, her living room floor with others, or washing dishes, Westin is under her feet along three other foster siblings. His age does not fit his energy or personality. Westin’s Perfect Home Westin is not your typical cuddly Frenchie he’s an old soul who values his space. As like us adults the order we get the more we just love having our own space in this busy day to day world. He needs a patient, understanding adopter who will respect his boundaries and allow him to adjust at his own pace. Westin loves: Sunbathing. Occasionally playing with toys. Treats are his love language! Baths & wrinkle cleaning (if done gently). What to Expect: He will growl and possibly nip at first, this is his way of setting boundaries. He requires the 3-3-3 rule (3 days to decompress, 3 weeks to adjust, 3 months to feel at home). Westin is not a fan of being picked up, only Mo and sometimes her son can do it. Now she carries him around like the little football he is! So do not have an expectation to pick him up for a few days. Also do not expect to have the meet and greet goes as you plan. You can’t judge this guy and how he will be in the future the first time you meet him. You must be able to jump in with both feet for Westin and trust the process. If you want more information on that, please watch his video on social media as it has taken two weeks to get where he is today with Mo and her family. If you are impatient and live in the me now world, he is not for you. No children under 13 years of age unless you are experienced with rescue frenchie’s. Medical: Westin has a sway in his walk and some back leg tremors, but he manages well with daily Gabapentin, joint supplements, and probiotics. His ears require regular cleaning, but as long as you go slow, he tolerates it well. Is your home the one for Westin! Westin needs an experienced, patient adopter willing to give him the time and space he deserves. If you’re looking for a loyal companion who will be your best friend once he learns to trust you, he might just be your perfect match. He is vaccinated, neutered, and microchipped, Westins adoption donation fee is $975.00. Apply to adopt Westin at freedomfrenchierescue.org! He will get a final vet check during his adoption process. Located Mesa, AZ

If you have any questions or would like to adopt Westin, please reach out to the adoption group directly. PetSmart Charities does not facilitate the adoption process. Thank you.