Adoption Area: East Tennessee

Nick needs:

• Someone home part of the day.
• Someone to keep him on a potty schedule and either walk him on a leash or let him wander around in a small fenced area under supervision because of his small size. 
• Children over the age of 13 that know how to be gentle and love a little senior dog.
• Regular grooming once his coat grows in about every 6 weeks.

Meet Pumpernickel, better known as Nick—a sweet, soulful male 11-year-old Shih Tzu weighing in at a perfectly portable 8 pounds.

Nick may be a senior, but he’s got that gentle, happy-go-lucky charm that makes Shih Tzus so easy to love. Nick knows when it’s meal time (I think he can read the clock) and Nick knows exactly what he wants—and when he wants it. Thankfully, his requests are usually simple: comfort, good food, and affection.

Before coming into rescue, Nick was severely matted and had to be shaved down for his comfort. His coat is now growing back beautifully and will continue to come in very nicely with proper care. Like all Shih Tzus, Nick will need professional grooming about every six weeks, along with regular brushing and combing in between, to keep his coat healthy and in tip-top shape.

Nick was missing several teeth before his dental and lost a few more during the procedure—he’s now living happily with just two teeth, which doesn’t slow him down at all. He eats soft food and absolutely enjoys his meals, making mealtime one of his favorite parts of the day. Nick has a grade 4 or 5 heart murmur.  He had a chest x-ray and his heart is not enlarged. Currently he’s not on any medication for his heart.

He’s done quite well with house training and goes outside to potty, though he may occasionally need to wear a belly band. Nick was neutered prior to coming into rescue and gets along well with the other dogs and the cats in his foster home.

At night, Nick sleeps in a small indoor puppy pen because he’s not a fan of crates—though if given his preference, he would definitely choose the big bed. After potty breaks, he’s happy to come back inside and settle into his favorite cozy spots, often perched on the back of the sofa. He also very much enjoys curling up in his foster mom’s lap for some quiet cuddle time.

Nick is looking for a calm, loving home that understands senior dogs and is committed to keeping him comfortable, well-groomed, and adored. If you’re searching for a loyal, affectionate companion, Nick just might be your perfect match.

Nick is up-to-date with his vaccinations was neutered prior to coming to Rescue already has a microchip and is on heart-worm prevention. Because Nick is a senior, his adoption fee is $100. 🐾💙