Shih Tzu * Spayed/Neutered * Female * 2 Years Old

Profile:

**This animal is behind the scenes and cannot be viewed during animal viewing hours.**

HOW DID LULU GET HERE?
Lulu was transferred to us from another rescue and is looking for a calm, patient family who can help her continue building confidence at her own pace.

PERSONALITY:
- A very gentle, quiet girl
- Extremely fearful and anxious in new situations and around new people
- Made slow but wonderful progress in foster care and is becoming more comfortable simply being around people
- Needs time, patience, and low-pressure interactions to build trust
- Prefers the safety and comfort of her crate, which is her safe space
- Very good when crated
- Not currently interested in toys due to her fear, but may become more playful as her confidence grows
- Not food or treat motivated at this time because of stress and can be a picky eater
- May leave meals unfinished while she adjusts
- Learning to walk on a leash and will need continued support and encouragement
- Is not yet responding to cues such as sit, down, or recall as she first needs to build a relationship with her people
-Inconsistently pee-pad trained and may hold her urine or bowel movements when feeling anxious
- Quiet by nature and not prone to barking
- Does not seek out handling or being picked up but has never shown aggression, she simply prefers to avoid interaction until she feels safe
- Looking for a family willing to celebrate small victories as she learns that the world isn't so scary

WHAT TYPE OF HOME IS LULU LOOKING FOR?
- An adult-only home, or a home with mature teenagers (16+) who understand how to respectfully interact with fearful dogs
- A home with previous experience caring for fearful, shutdown, or anxious dogs
- A calm, quiet household with predictable routines and minimal chaos
- A securely fenced yard is required so Lulu can safely explore outdoors without the pressure of busy walks while she builds confidence
- A home away from busy streets or high-traffic areas
- Could live with calm, socially appropriate dogs if her adopters are experienced in dog body language and are committed to slow, carefully managed introductions
- Could live with a dog-savvy cat following gradual introductions and appropriate management
- A family committed to continuing her training
- A home that understands her progress will be measured in small steps rather than big milestones

Lulu is taking medications called Gabapentin and Clomicalm to help with her anxiety. Any changes to her medication should be made in consultation with a Veterinarian. She is also taking Melatonin to help her get a restful sleep and an Omega supplement to support her skin and coat health. A starter supply of these will be sold to Lulu's adopter at the time of her adoption.

Lulu's training journey is focused on helping her feel safe and confident. At this stage, building trust is far more important than teaching obedience, and her adopters should be prepared to move at her pace.

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Application Review Process: Every application for Lulu will be thoughtfully reviewed, and the best match for her needs will be selected.

Complete Applications: Please ensure your application is fully completed, as decisions are based solely on the details provided.

Timely Updates: All applicants will be notified of the outcome, whether Lulu finds her forever home or you're the next in line.

Resources Available: All details about the adoption process, fees, and FAQs can be found on our website for your convenience.

Lulu may not be the kind of dog who greets you with wagging tails and kisses on day one, but for someone willing to be patient, understanding, and let her set the pace, watching her slowly learn to trust will be incredibly rewarding. If you have the experience, compassion, and quiet home Lulu is looking for, apply to adopt her today!