Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids,
Good with dogs,
House-trained,
Spayed or Neutered,
Shots are up-to-date,
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.This dog will be at the Palo Alto Pet Food Express on Saturday, December 13th from 12-3pm unless adopted prior to the event. To be considered for adoption, pls submit an application in advance. Adoption fee: $700 Meet Thundercat, a 4–5 year old, 13-pound Spaniel mix with the softest heart and the sweetest soul. This little guy arrived at the shelter trembling from head to tail, unsure of the world, and overwhelmed by everything around him. But the moment he realized he was safe, his whole demeanor changed. Within hours he bonded tightly with our volunteers, leaning in for comfort and showing an overwhelming gratitude that is impossible to miss. Now in his foster home, Thundercat has settled into a gentle, predictable routine that helps him feel secure. His day begins around 8 am with a quick potty break, followed by breakfast. At noon he enjoys a 20–25 minute backyard play session filled with sniffing, exploring, and the occasional burst of zoomies. The afternoon is a blend of naps, quiet toy play, and frequent little snuggle breaks with his foster. He has another potty break around 4 pm, dinner at 6 pm, and then a short walk or backyard play session. From 7 pm to 10 pm he relaxes in his cozy enclosure area, resting on soft blankets or playing with toys. After his final potty break at 10 pm, he settles himself down for the night and sleeps quietly until morning. Thundercat’s personality is tender, sensitive, and incredibly loving once he feels safe. Loud or sudden noises still startle him, and quick approaches can make him shrink back. But when approached calmly with an open, gentle hand, he melts on the spot. He leans in for affection, asks for belly rubs, and becomes a true velcro dog, happiest when tucked right against his person. He loves to burrow into your side, and once he trusts you, he will follow you wherever you go. He is also wonderfully playful. His favorite toy is a small tennis ball, and fetch is his absolute joy. He can entertain himself with toys for long stretches, but he also loves companionship and thrives with access to his people. He appears to be a picky eater and prefers when someone sits with him during meals. His foster has had success mixing his kibble with a little water and wet food. Thundercat has been excellent with the resident dog. He understands boundaries, respects space, and is non-reactive even when the other dog gets grumpy. They have enjoyed playful chases in the yard, and he would likely be thrilled to have another friendly dog in his forever home. Because he startles easily and needs slow, calm handling, a home with adults or older children who understand his sensitivities would suit him best. He walks nicely on leash with no pulling or reactivity, though he zigzags and pauses often as he takes in the world around him. With time and confidence, he will settle into a more consistent pace. He is fully housetrained, familiar with potty pads, and understands how to signal when he needs to go outside. He has access to a crate but prefers to sleep on blankets in his open enclosure area. He learned to use a doggy screen door almost immediately. Thundercat is not a barker in general. He primarily vocalizes to ask for attention, when toys are being handed out, or when the household dog is getting leashed up for a walk. Otherwise he is quiet, gentle, and easy to have around. He does not dig, chew, or get into trouble, and he is content to simply be near his people. His ideal home is a quiet, steady environment with adults or older children, access to companionship, and potentially another friendly dog for play and confidence-building. He can handle short periods alone but is happiest with regular company. His adopters should understand that he needs patience, gentle handling, and time to blossom into his most confident self. What makes Thundercat so special? Despite his past, he radiates sweetness. He desperately wants to trust, to connect, and to be close. He is house-trained, non-reactive to animals and humans, low-shedding, smart, and highly trainable. He does not need constant entertainment, just reassurance and companionship. And for a final charm point: he has the cutest little lip snag that gives him a permanently endearing expression, and when he gets excited, he does a tiny hop across the yard that will make you smile every single time. Thundercat is ready for a gentle, loving home where he can finally exhale and be adored the way he deserves. If you are looking for a devoted, sensitive, playful companion with a heart of gold, he may be the perfect match.December 12, 2025, 3:44 am
