Sundown

Description

* This dog will be at the Palo Alto Pet Food Express on Saturday, September 5th 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: $650 Meet Sundown: Your Golden Hour Companion   Sundown is a 5 year old, 14-pound Spaniel mix with a gentle heart and a deep appreciation for life’s coziest comforts. After his previous owner could no longer care for him, Sundown was surrendered to a shelter. The unfamiliar, noisy environment left him terrified, so DPS quickly brought him into rescue and gave him a quiet place to decompress.   In his foster home, Sundown has discovered that a new beginning can be pretty wonderful—especially when it includes soft beds, leisurely walks, tasty treats, and someone trustworthy nearby.   A Quiet, Easygoing Companion   Sundown’s day begins around 7 a.m. with a trip outside, followed by breakfast at about 7:30. He is a good eater and currently enjoys his kibble softened with a little water and topped with something delicious. Around 10 a.m., it is time for one of his favorite activities: a walk!   He loves putting on his leash and walks beautifully without pulling or barking at dogs he passes. He has even accompanied his foster mom on car rides to pick up other dogs for their walks. Although he was initially uncertain about one large dog, continued positive exposure helped him become comfortable. He generally prefers smaller, calmer canine companions but has successfully spent time with dogs of many sizes.   Once the day’s adventures are complete, Sundown is perfectly content to relax. He will occasionally join his foster mom on the couch for some affection, but his favorite spot is usually his own bed placed right beside her. He enjoys being close without needing to follow his person from room to room—a lovely balance for someone who wants a devoted companion who can also settle independently.   The Prince of Comfy Beds   If Sundown could write a list of life’s greatest inventions, dog beds would be at the very top. Give him a soft bed and he will roll around, stretch out, and sometimes flip completely upside down as though he cannot believe his good fortune. He becomes adorably excited whenever he receives something new, and his enthusiasm makes even a simple treat or cozy blanket feel like a major celebration.   At bedtime, each dog in his foster home climbs into a bed and receives a treat. Sundown has embraced this routine wholeheartedly. He sleeps through the night in his own bed in the bedroom and does not need an overnight potty break. He also likes his crate and can remain home for a couple of hours with the other animals while his foster mom is away.   A Sweetheart Who Has Learned to Trust   Sundown arrived in his foster home timid and trembling. Once he realized he was safe, his worried demeanor gave way to a happy, loving, affectionate little dog. He enjoys being petted and spending time with his people, but he is not demanding about attention. He is far more interested in lounging than wrestling and politely declines when his more playful foster sibling tries to start a game.   Sundown currently lives with three medium-sized dogs and cats. He gets along well with his canine housemates and mostly ignores the cats. Because their company appears to help him feel secure, a home with a friendly, calm dog or a dog-savvy cat could be a wonderful fit.   He is doing very well with his housetraining and has had only a couple of accidents, both during his first week. He can be hesitant about stepping through the back door, possibly because the step is a little intimidating for him, but happily goes outside when accompanied on leash. He has not shown any chewing or digging behavior. He may bark when he hears an unfamiliar noise in the house or yard, serving as a tiny neighborhood-watch volunteer before returning to his bed.   Sundown’s Ideal Home   Sundown would thrive in a peaceful, patient home where he can continue building confidence at his own pace. He was nervous when meeting children ages 9 and 11, particularly around louder activity, so a quieter adult home or one with gentle, dog-savvy older children would suit him best.   He does not yet know many formal commands, but his love of treats and walks should make positive training a rewarding way to strengthen his bond with his adopter. More than anything, Sundown is looking for someone who will offer him affection, patience, comfortable places to sleep, and the security of knowing that he is finally home.   For someone seeking a mellow, sweet-natured companion who loves without overwhelming, Sundown may be the perfect little ray of light.