Rio

My story

The river of love! Hi guys! I am Rio and I am a 5 years old, 18 lb, neutered male Terrier mix. I came from a tough situation, and was rescued from a hoarder house in Riverside. I have been a good boy and working hard on my bathroom and leash training. I am fully crate trained and can be left by myself, which my fosters have done for about 4 hours or so. So, it has turned out that I have a Grade III/IV heart murmur. I have mild degenerative valve disease, a a common heart disease affecting the mitral and tricuspid valves, causing them to leak backwards to a small degree. This is the source of the murmur that is heard but does not cause me any pain or discomfort. This eventually (in severely affected dogs), can lead to cough due to airway compression from an enlarged heart or congestive heart failure. My disease has not resulted in an increase in heart size at this time, and complications are unlikely in the near future. Progression of this disease over time is common, so future evaluations are required by an established Cardiologist. Now that you know I have a big heart, you must also know that it holds a gush of love! I love my people, and I am so grateful for all the attention and adoration that I am receiving. Yet, I need some time to open up. My past has left me a bit sensitive. I like to follow my people around, but I wouldn't like petting right now. I am mostly calm, but bark only when someone is at the door or if I hear trucks out front. See? I am a protector! I am sweet, curious with a funny personality. I will keep you in awwws and aaahs all teh time! I would love a loving and patient home who will allow me decompression time to come out of my shell. When I feel that I have settled at my furever home, I am sure to get comfy asap. I get along well with dogs, and with cats I am curious and excited but not aggressively. I get along well with older kids, but young kids may be too much for my no petting too soon thingy. I am mellow, but I'd appreciate company. My adoption fee is $350 and that includes spaying/neutering, shots, and microchip. If you want to take me home, please fill out the form on the website here: https://theanimalpad.org/adoption-application/ ##1990725##

If you have any questions or would like to adopt Rio, please reach out to the adoption group directly. PetSmart Charities does not facilitate the adoption process. Thank you.