Memorial post from Mike's adopters:
We had to put our 15 year old dog Mike to sleep today.
Mike came to us as a four year old rescue from Washington State. The condition report at the time showed him weighing 3 pounds lighter then his normal 12 pounds and feces ridden, with his belly hair so long that it tangled with his leg hair, making it hard to walk. The story I heard was that his liter mate was so malnourished she was brain damaged, but not Mike, he drove off the big dogs competing for his food.
In the 11 years we had him, Mike was fierce with big dogs, and never trusted strangers, but was fiercely loyal and loving to us.
This beautiful dog showed me the value of courage and persistence and heart, and I'm very sad tonight.
Montana Mike is just the cutest thing ever, 9 lbs. of appeal in a 4-year-old body!! He has that "unique springy gait" of a Havanese and loves to walk outside where he is seeing a whole new world in Montana - all of which Mike is finding extremely fascinating.
Mike is very good at coming when called and smiles and runs toward you with joy. He has very good eye contact and wants to engage his human - in play, on a walk, or just during cuddles on the couch.
Mike needs to gain more confidence right now, and work on his socialization. He is polishing up his leash walking skills, has learned to climb small steps, and sleeps through the night in his crate.
Right now, Mike will take a treat and drop it in favor of possibly getting to be held. Same with the toy - he'll go after it, but then drop it right away (not bring it back) in hopes that you will pick him up and cuddle him. It's obvious that people are more important to Mike than toys right now - he is going to make someone a wonderful companion!
Mike was shaved down before he went to his foster home and the vet has diagnosed him with Blackhair Follicular Alopeci, which means that the black hair has fallen out and probably won't grow back. It actually gives him an adorable Chinese Crested-look don't you think?
Mike is being fostered in Montana.
A donation will be requested to adopt this dog. The recommended donation amount will be based on the dog's age, and medical and behavioral issues, if any.
A completed application is required if you are interested in adoption.
Thank you for considering a rescue dog!