ADOPTED

MIA

Our Mia is an impossibly cute little character, just four years old, who has just been abandoned by her owners in an overcrowded animal control facility, where she faced an uncertain fate. Owner surrendered dogs are at much greater risk than strays in a high kill shelter, because they get so little time; the 14 day process of determining the owner is unnecessary.

Mia was quite frightened by her new surroundings and handlers, and did not fare well on her behavior evaluations. Her time was expiring quickly, so we invited her to our rescue for the TLC that she needed to relax and let her true colors shine.

Mia has adjusted beautifully and is an absolute love. She is a striking tri color dog, who appears to be a creative mix of Jack Russell and Shih Tzu. Weighing just 12 pounds, Mia has a compact muscular frame with short legs. Mia's sturdy physique suggests the JRT input, while we see some Shih Tzu characteristics in her broad face and snub nosed muzzle. Her coat is mostly smooth, with an unusual wisp of random fringe.

Mia would be the ideal choice for an active single or couple, who enjoy the outdoors, and have the time to devote to her training. She is extremely smart and eager to please, and will perform her obedience sequence beautifully after a dose of exercise. Mia could do well in a family with older, dog savvy kids, but would not be appropriate for homes with toddlers. Mia genuinely likes most other dogs, and could easily join a multi-dog home. She has not yet been cat tested, but JRTs do not have the best reputation with the feline purr-suasion.

As an owner surrender, Mia has good house manners and is house trained and crate trained. Adopters are expected to have patience and troubleshoot the occasional accident that might occur as Mia transitions to a new routine. She is also a good traveler, although a car safety harness will go a long way in keeping Mia in her designated seat and not in the Driver's lap.