It’s time to meet our next adoptable lady, Paloma! Paloma is a 1.5-year-old mutt mix who came to us from Mexico. She and her siblings were found outside the shelter, showing signs of malnourishment, dehydration and suffering from flea and parasite infestations. Once our wonderful friends @thedoggoprojectmexico worked their rehabilitation magic, Paloma made her way north and is currently decompressing with her foster in Toronto. Despite being just older than a puppy, Paloma has her heart set on a slower-paced life with a family who loves to relax!

Though she has spent most of her life surrounded by the hustle and bustle of the city, Paloma is clearly a country girl at heart. She’s not necessarily looking for acres to roam or a backyard where she can run and play, but rather a quieter environment with space to continue decompressing. Heading to the park for a low-key picnic? Paloma would love to join! Relaxing on the porch with a Sunday morning coffee? Our girl will happily sit by your side! While she loves low-key activities, we do see Paloma eventually enjoying some higher-energy outings (a great companion for runners or cyclists!), especially in a quieter setting where she’s more comfortable. Paloma is a sensitive and anxious pup: she struggles around noises and crowds, and though she is working hard to conquer these fears, we know she would thrive outside of the city. Key to Paloma’s success is a relaxed and patient adopter who will let her move at her own pace and stay committed to her ongoing training!

Right now, we believe Paloma would do best in a home where she is the only dog. While with her foster, she temporarily roomed with another pup, which Paloma wasn’t too happy about. She began growling and placing her paws on the other dog. In mutual environments, Paloma has no issues with other dogs, but at home, she prefers to have the space to herself. When encountering other dogs on leash, Paloma can be tense and nervous. Her behaviour seems rooted in insecurity rather than aggression, so slow, structured introductions paired with positive reinforcement will be very beneficial! With strangers, Paloma needs a sec to determine threat-level, but her curiosity soon gets the better of her and she’s happy to receive pets!

Once comfortable with her surroundings, Paloma’s playful side really shines! She is a very affectionate girl who is obsessed with head scratches (she will nudge for more if you dare stop scritching!) and she’ll often rest her head on her foster’s lap. Paloma loves being close to her foster, but she also enjoys hanging on her own, whether that’s on her bed or in her crate. She sleeps in her crate overnight and will sometimes head in by herself during the day for a rest. When not busy relaxing or seeking head scratches, Paloma spends her time learning to play! Her current fave toy is anything with a ball and a rope, or a tag that she can nibble! If she’s required to stay home on her own for any length of time, Paloma is a-okay and has not shown any separation anxiety.

Paloma is spayed, microchipped and up to date with her vaccines. She’s had a few accidents in her foster’s home, so her adoptive family should be prepared to help her soar past the potty-training finish line!

From Mexico to Toronto, and now hopefully to a quieter neighbourhood, Paloma is ready to make the next move in her journey! With the right environment and a family committed to helping Paloma overcome her anxieties, we know this sweet girl will continue to flourish!

SOCIABILITY: Humans (adults) and dogs; not cat tested
ENERGY: Medium
QUIRKS: When her foster takes a break from giving head scratches, Paloma nudges her for more!
TRAINING NEEDS: Continued basic obedience, leash skills (including some reactivity), confidence building and socialization
MEDICAL NEEDS: None
WEIGHT: 37lbs
FOSTER LOCATION: Toronto