Rascal

My story

  Meet Rascal   Rascal is a 8 month-old Chihuahua or Rat Terrier mix (we think he might have a bit of Yorkie in him too!) who’s ready to find his forever person. His name suits him quite right - He is a bit of a Rascal.  Well let us share - at no fault of his, he lacked socialization in the early puppy stages. Therefore, the world is new and a bit scary to him.  He seems to do best with women more than men - although he is fine with men if they give him sometime to warm up.  Now, Rascal does need a little time and patience. He’s reactive when meeting new people and dogs, but once he gets to know you, his sweet personality will shine. But it isn't going to happen in one visit. It may take two. But in the first hour Rascal arrived at his foster mom's house .. he was barking lunging & snapping. Little Tough Guy. So, she did what she knows to do best for him ... ignored him.  And then, when he settled and realized she meant him no harm, she pulled him out of his crate and he welcomed her ... slowly. But within 24 hours, they were best friends. He listens to her well with a correction should he play to hard with her dogs and/or a new person comes into the home. He trusts his foster and he knows she will keep him safe so he is able to let his scared guard down. He needs a home where, once he builds a solid relationship with his adopter, he knows that she/he will keep him safe and he can trust. Yes, he will bark and run up to someone new who enters your house but once you given a Ahhh Ahhh Ahhh or No Rascal, pick him up and allow him the opportunity to introduce him to someone new - he is fine. So, if you are not willing to put the time in to give a puppy like a chance, please don't apply.   Because of his sensitivity, Rascal needs a home without children and would do best in a calm, quiet environment without young children and with someone who understands his need for slow introductions and a steady routine.  It's a lot to ask for - we realize ... No cats, no cats, limited people in and out of the home unless you are willing to put him away in his safe crate in another room till your guests leave OR properly take the time to introduce him slowly to new folks. Once he trusts you and you build a trust with him, he would benefit from slow and patient socialization and desensitation to the world around him. He is young and has so much to learn - he can overcome this fear given his young age but ONLY if you are invested in a long term commitment to his young pup.  Give Rascal the chance to be your loyal little best friend—he’s ready to love you forever. Apply now at www.crossyourpaws.com to get pre-approved and be ready to welcome Rascal into your home! #TinyTornadoes #CrossYourPawsRescue #AdoptDontShop #May4thArrival #RescuePups  ##2380465##

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