**Breed - Terrier, Rat

Color - Black/White

Sex - Male**

Meet Chico: Your Future Couch-Cuddling️ Best Friend If you are looking for a loyal, affectionate, and beautifully unique companion, look no further than Chico. This handsome five-year-old Rat Terrier mix is a total sweetheart who just needs a little time, patience, and understanding to let his true, goofy personality shine Chico came to the shelter after being surrendered by his previous owners. Because he was under-socialized and intact at the time, the loud, chaotic shelter environment was incredibly overwhelming for him. He was very nervous and would nip when handled out of pure fear. Recognizing that he just needed a safe space to breathe, a dedicated shelter volunteer stepped up to foster him. Since then, Chico has been neutered, is fully up to date on all of his shots, and has been absolutely thriving in a home environment! He currently shares his foster home with two other small male dogs and does great with them, though he will occasionally try to steal their treats. The Key️ to Chico's Heart Chico is not the kind of dog who will immediately run up to lick a stranger's face, and he won't tolerate being handled right away by people he doesn't know. He needs an adopter who respects his boundaries and understands that winning his trust is a rewarding process, not an instant guarantee. Here's the secret, though: it doesn't take long to break through his shell! Usually, all it takes is a few minutes of walking Chico around on a leash for him to start warming up. Once he realizes you are a friend, his walls crumble. Before you know it, he’ll be trying to hop right up into your lap begging for pets. While he is incredibly loving once he knows you, his future owner will need to be an advocate for him—ensuring that strangers don't rush into his personal space or try to handle him before he's ready. Life with Chico 🦺 Once you are in Chico’s inner circle, you are in for a treat. He is a silly, joyful little guy who absolutely craves attention and affection from his trusted humans. His absolute favorite activities include going for walks on-leash, lounging right next to you on the couch, and to sleep soundly against you in bed at night. If you love a small dog who will fiercely adore you, Chico is your boy. He just needs a patient handler who is committed to continuing his confidence-building and social work. His foster human reports Chico is 90% housebroken and knows how to use the small doggy-door to the secure back yard. 🤝Ready to Meet Him? Chico is still enjoying the comforts of his foster home while he waits for his forever family. Because of this, he isn't available for walk-in viewing at the shelter. How to Adopt: If you are seriously interested in making Chico a part of your life, please fill out an adoption application online. Once approved, an appointment will be set up for an in-person meet-and-greet at the shelter. Give Chico the chance he deserves, and he will reward you with a lifetime of unconditional love and loyalty!🥰