Critter Details

Hello!  I'm KIVALINA (Chia) and you can find some info about me below.  If you're looking for a dog who is brave for her small stature and will be forever loyal to her people, I might just be for you.Breed: Chihuahua Age: 3 yrsGender: FemaleWeight: 15 lbsHeight: tbdCountry of origin: TurkeyHighlights: Affectionate, Athletic, Brave, Curious, Dignified, Playful, Loyal, Funny, Friendly, SmartIf you’re looking for a small dog with a big heart, I just might be the one for you. My name is Chia, and I’m about 3 years old. While I may only weigh 15 pounds, don’t be fooled—I'm mighty for my size and full of courage.  I spent most of my early life in a shelter, watching other dogs come and go, always wagging my tail and looking up with hopeful eyes, waiting for my turn. That moment finally came, and now I’ve made the long journey all the way to Vancouver, Canada, in search of my forever home.I’ve been welcomed into three different foster homes here in Vancouver. I’ve adapted quickly and gracefully to each new environment, soaking up all the kindness, cuddles, and playtime I can. My foster families have helped me learn that love can be safe and real—and while I could dwell on what could have been, I’m much more focused on what’s next.I’m curious and clever, with a playful spirit and a dignified charm. I bond closely with my people and will be a loyal companion for life. I'm affectionate without being clingy, brave without being bossy, and I bring a little spark of joy wherever I go.  Self-assured; I'm ok to be left alone for short stints.  I know now that my people will return, and have no destructive behaviours.  I’d thrive in a calm but active household—whether that’s with a single person, a couple, or a family. I’d love someone who appreciates my quirky personality and will make me feel safe and loved. I enjoy walks, playtime, and snuggling on the couch, so a mix of stimulation and downtime suits me perfectly. A home with a secure yard is a bonus, but not required.Energy Level: moderateI get along with:Dogs: YesCats: unknown, rescuer states yes, await video proofKids: unknown, rescuer states yes, await video proofFears: hesitant with unknown men, easy to bond when feeling safe and secureTraining: understands name, commands such as "stay", "wait", "sit", "come".  More training and patience in long-term obedience will go a long wayLeash skills: some. Please be prepared to train/continue training.House trained: Yes. Please help me learn where to go in my new home.Health notes: undiagnosed lesion on hind leg, thought to be benign. I have been spayed, vaccinated and microchipped.My adoption fee is $850.00 CAD plus applicable taxes. This includes my transportation to Canada, if I am able to be accompanied by a flight volunteer directly to Vancouver.Disclaimer: It is important for all applicants to visit our website, http://www.lovedatlastdogrescue.ca/adopting/ and read about Loved at Last Dog Rescue. Information included in the profile is provided to us from the international rescuer or local fosters. LALDR does not have access to overseas dogs and cannot always verify the accuracy of their descriptions. Every dog is an individual and can act differently in different situations based on the person adopting them and the environment in which they live.Please Note: LALDR highly encourages adopters to research some local dog trainers before their dog arrives. Although a 1-on-1 trainer is often not needed, it is good to have someone in mind in case any problematic behaviours arise. Most bad behaviours can be modified if caught early enough, so make sure to nip undesirable behaviours in the bud before they become serious problems. Basic training should be taken seriously but should not begin until your dog is well settled in – at least a couple of weeks. After you feel your new dog is relaxed and comfortable in their new home check out training courses in your local area. Even basic beginner courses like those taught at a local pet store can have a huge benefit in helping your dog learn to socialize and get used to being in public situations, all with the added benefit of strengthening their bond with you.The age and breed of a dog is usually an educated guess, so we are not able to guarantee the accuracy of age or breed of our dogs.Normally, we will not approve adoptions to homes with children under 12 years of age. However if the dog is shown to be good with children we will approve homes with children 8 years or older. More information can be found on our website. While most dogs find escorting passengers flying directly to Vancouver, some will find flights through Toronto or Montreal. In that case, additional fees will apply to fly your dog to Vancouver by cargo. Unaccompanied cargo costs within Canada range from $350 – $550 depending on the size of the dog. LALDR will be as transparent as possible with you regarding these costs. You will NOT be charged the passenger fee in addition to this.[TURKEY] *Dogs are additionally tested for Mediterranean diseases and heartworm, as well as receiving bordatella immunization.