Turtle

My story

All of our dogs are spayed/neutered, shots current (DHPP, Bordetella and Rabies where applicable), dewormed, flea and tick treated, and microchipped.  * If you are interested in a dog, please first read the biography on the dog (keep scrolling down for the bio!) and then go to our website, www.dpsrescue.com for an application. Our adoption fees vary. Each biography will specifically list the adoption fee.Adoption Fee: $750 Meet Turtle – The Soft-Hearted Pup Who Came Out of His Shell   Turtle didn’t get his name because he’s slow (although he does enjoy a good nap), or because he has a fondness for lettuce (though he wouldn’t turn down a treat). He earned it because when he arrived at our rescue, he was hidden inside a thick, matted “shell” of fur—more fluff fortress than dog. But even while being gently shaved and freed from his tangle of a turtle shell, this 2 year old, 16-pound Miniature Schnauzer–Lhasa Apso mix was sweet as can be.   And once we helped Turtle shed that shell? The transformation began.   While he’s still a bit timid and unsure of the big wide world, Turtle has shown that he wants to be brave. Every day, he stretches, wags his tail, and greets the morning with quiet optimism. He may not be charging into adventures just yet, but with the right home, he’ll blossom at his own gentle pace.   Now let’s talk about Turtle’s secret weapon: other dogs. Turtle doesn’t just like dogs—he needs one. He finds his confidence in the calm presence of another pup and is a completely different dog when he has a buddy to show him the ropes. He follows his foster sister everywhere, snuggles beside her on the couch, and even offers up the occasional bark of playtime excitement. With another dog around, Turtle transforms from shy wallflower to happy tail-wagger—and that’s where his true magic shines.   Here’s what you need to know about this soft-hearted guy:   Non-shedding, low-allergy coat – Now that it’s been trimmed and cleaned up, Turtle’s coat is growing in beautifully.   Potty pad pro – Turtle does well indoors and even used a doggy door at his previous foster.   Couch potato energy – He’s a lounger with flashes of playful joy, especially in the mornings when he’s feeling extra brave.   Sleeps snuggled next to his doggy foster sibling – He’s got serious cuddle potential… for the right furry friend.   He’s currently a bit too nervous for walks (he prefers couch-potatoing with flair) and may give high-energy kiddos the side-eye, but in a calm, compassionate home with a sweet resident dog? Turtle will thrive. He will accept your gentle head scritches if you come bearing treats and patience.   Flight risk? Yes. Couch cuddler in training? Absolutely. Turtle is looking for a home that understands the quiet victories—like the first time he asks for a treat, or when he rolls over on his back with a sleepy snore of trust. A peaceful home with a mellow pup, maybe a small garden to explore, and humans who speak fluent “gentle and kind”—that’s the dream.   Favorite Turtle moments? When he wakes up, he does a big stretch, a tiny tail wag, and sometimes offers his foster sister a barky “good morning” invitation to play. It’s like watching a shy cartoon character inch out from behind the curtain every day.   Turtle may take his time warming up, but if you have the patience, the peace, and the perfect pup for him to shadow, he’ll reward you with quiet companionship, unexpected playfulness, and the kind of love that only comes from a dog who’s learned to trust.   Adopt Turtle—because sometimes the best things take a little time, and a lot of heart.April 26, 2025, 7:00 am

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