Maltese shih tzu poodle (6yr F)

Meet Sophie, a 6-year-old Maltese Shih Tzu Poodle mix who has been with our family since she was a puppy. She’s an affectionate dog who loves cuddles and walks, and has been much loved and adored by our family.

✿ Why We’re Rehoming ✿
Due to circumstances that changed two years ago, we’ve made the difficult decision to rehome Sophie. We believe she would benefit from:
– More one-on-one attention
– More frequent walks
– A quieter home environment with less hustle and bustle

This is our second attempt at rehoming. Our previous attempt found a great couple, but unfortunately their property couldn’t provide suitable confinement for Sophie.

✿ Personality and Training ✿
– Very relaxed and well-mannered (Those whom give her attention however get it back…)
– Loves toys and is active during playtime
– Well-trained with toys (doesn’t destroy household items)
– Knows basic commands (sit, come, stay, inside, outside)
– Good recall when you have her attention
– Great with children – no aggression
– Gets along well with cats (was raised with them)
– Will chase away unfamiliar cats from the property

✿ Daily Routine ✿
Sophie’s typical day includes:
– Sleeping at the foot of the bed
– Following family members around
– Alternating between indoor and outdoor time
– Playing with toys
– Getting belly rubs
– Lounging on the deck
– Occasional friendly barking at passersby
– Lots of cuddles as a classic lap dog

✿ What We’re Looking For ✿

✿ Ideal Home Requirements ✿
1. Located in Hamilton or within 30 minutes drive
2. Mature owner(s) with their own home
3. Energy for daily or twice-daily walks
4. Ability to include Sophie in activities (car rides, coffee outings, river walks)
5. Proper confinement setup (essential due to Sophie’s ability to find small escape routes)
6. Experience with dog ownership
7. Time and dedication for additional training

✿ Property Requirements ✿
– Secure fencing without cat-door-sized gaps
– No cable/runner confinement systems (Sophie is used to free yard access)
– Property inspection will be required

✿ Adoption Process ✿
1. Initial contact via email including:
– Your location (town/suburb)
– Experience with dogs
– Current pets and family situation
– Ability to provide long-term care (potentially 10 years)
– How you’ll incorporate Sophie into daily activities

2. Meet and greet with Sophie and current owners
3. Property inspection
4. 2-3 night trial period
– Full responsibility transfers during trial
– Including healthcare and safety responsibility
– Expected 1-2 month full adjustment period for successful trial and intent to proceed

✿ Trial Period Liability ✿
During the trial period, the prospective owner assumes full responsibility for Sophie’s care and wellbeing, including:
– Any health-related incidents or medical care needed
– Any accidents or accidental poisoning while under their care
– Any harm that may come to Sophie due to escape or inadequate confinement
– All aspects of duty of care and supervision

✿ What’s Included upon agreed adoption ✿
– All up-to-date vaccines with logbook
– Harnesses
– Car restraint
– Retractable leashes
– Coats
– Additional settling items/toys

✿ Cost ✿
Sophie is being offered free to the right home. The only cost is your time and commitment to providing her with the care and attention she deserves.

✿ Important Notes ✿
– Sophie uses a cat door for nighttime toileting
– New pet introductions must be done carefully – extra consideration had regarding potential trial if there are other animals. A robust discussion and plan will need to be in place prior to trial to ensure safe integration.
– Full settling period may take 1-2 months, this is fairly standard expectation when rehoming a dog
– Sophie in a new environment might bond with you, but not associate her surroundings with home. She will be interested in outside of your property.
– Not suitable for properties without confinement suitable for smaller dogs especially smart ones