Blinker

Description

* This dog will be at the Palo Alto Pet Food Express on Saturday, August 22nd from 12–3 PM (unless adopted prior to the event). All DPS Rescue dogs are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, dewormed, flea/tick treated, and microchipped prior to adoption.   Adoption fee: $800 Blinker: Love at First Wink   Blinker is a 1–2 year old, 15-pound Havanese/Shih Tzu mix with a non-shedding coat and a talent for making everyone feel like the most important person in the room. He was born with one eye that does not function correctly, but it does not cause him discomfort or slow him down in the slightest. Sometimes it simply looks like he is giving you a permanent little wink—and honestly, it only adds to his charm.  This affectionate, gentle boy is happiest when he is near his people. He does not demand constant entertainment; he simply wants to know where you are so he can choose the perfect nearby spot for his next nap.   Blink and the Day Begins   Blinker wakes up around 7 a.m., ready for his morning potty break and a 20–30 minute walk. Walks are one of the highlights of his day, and he believes every patch of grass and interesting bush deserves a thorough investigation.   Once home, he eats breakfast and enjoys a short training session involving his favorite form of motivation: treats. After completing his morning responsibilities, Blinker happily settles beside his person and naps while they work or go about their day. If you move to another room, he will likely wake up, follow you, and resume napping in the new location.   Dinner is served around 6 p.m., followed by another 20–30 minute walk. In the evening, Blinker enjoys a little playtime before curling up on his blanket while the family relaxes. At bedtime, he sleeps peacefully in his pen on a cozy bed or blanket, preferably positioned near his people.   Professional Companion, Part-Time Player   Blinker is curious, affectionate, and wonderfully gentle. He can be nervous for the first couple of days in a new environment, but even while feeling uncertain, he is willing to come out of his carrier and quietly investigate his surroundings. Having a trusted person nearby gives him confidence, and it does not take long for his loving personality to emerge.   Once comfortable, Blinker becomes a devoted little shadow. He follows his people from room to room, accepts all available pets and belly rubs, and enjoys cuddling on the couch. After a while, he may relocate to the floor, but he will still make sure he is sleeping close enough to keep an eye on you.   Blinker is primarily a champion lounger, although he is happy to participate when it is time to play. He has a calm energy and does not need to be the center of attention. Give him a comfortable blanket, a few good walks, and someone nearby, and he considers life a tremendous success.   Friends of Every Size   Although Blinker does not currently live with another dog, he has met dogs off-leash and enjoys making new canine friends. He listens when another dog communicates a boundary and is quick to adjust his behavior appropriately.   Blinker has also spent time with a two-year-old child and was consistently calm and gentle. If the child became more playful than Blinker preferred, he simply moved away or found a quiet place to retreat. He has shown no aggression toward children, adults, or other animals.   When visitors arrive, Blinker may give a brief alert bark, but he stops once they enter. He does not jump on guests and is friendly and eager to collect his welcome scratches. He lived side by side with cats in his first foster home.  Adventures at Blinker Speed   Blinker absolutely loves his walks. He does not chase squirrels or bark at dogs or people. He may show interest in saying hello, but his behavior is friendly and curious.   Blinker is housetrained. He had a couple of accidents during his initial adjustment period but has since settled into a reliable routine. He does not use potty pads and has not had access to a doggy door.     About That Wink   Blinker was born with one eye that does not work correctly. It blends into the fur around his face and can make him look like he is winking. His limited vision does not prevent him from walking, playing, exploring, or living like any other young dog. It does not bother him, and he does not seem to realize there is anything unusual about him.   His non-shedding coat will require regular brushing and professional grooming to remain healthy, comfortable, and free of mats.   Building Confidence When Alone   Blinker loves companionship and is still learning that it is safe when his people leave and may vocalize. His foster family is helping him develop a positive association with the crate by feeding him and hiding treats inside. He is comfortable sleeping in an x-pen at night, which is an encouraging sign. His adoptive family should be prepared to continue working gradually on crate training and comfortable alone time. Don’t Let This One Blink By   Blinker is incredibly kind, gentle, affectionate, and ready to devote himself to a family of his own. He will greet your return home as though it is the greatest event of the day, accompany you from room to room, and make every quiet evening a little cozier.   If you are looking for a sweet companion who enjoys outdoor adventures, belly rubs, and an impressive number of naps, keep your eye on Blinker. He is ready to wink his way straight into your heart.