Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids,
Good with dogs,
Good with cats,
Needs special attention,
Needs experienced adopter,
Spayed or Neutered,
Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Pluto 🐾
Please read the bio in full for answers to common questions. If you have a question not covered here, please email info@seniordoghaven.org. If interested in adopting, please complete an adoption application at https://seniordoghaven.org/adoption-process/. Because all of our dogs live in foster homes, meet-and-greets are scheduled only after a completed application is received. Adoptions must be within a reasonable distance of Wilmington, DE so our volunteers can conduct an in-person home visit.
Pluto is a tiny but mighty super senior Chihuahua, estimated to be 14–16 years young and weighing in at just 10 pounds. This quiet little gentleman is the definition of low maintenance. He enjoys his independence, loves a cozy nap spot, and keeps life simple and calm.
Pluto came to us as an owner surrender after his beloved human passed away. He spent nearly a year being shuffled among relatives before a caring family member reached out to give him the comfortable life he deserves. Since joining us, Pluto has received the medical care he needed, including a dental, neuter, and removal of his right eye due to a corneal rupture. He has been an independent little guy from the very beginning.
Medically, Pluto has a high-grade heart murmur and arthritis, both of which are well-managed with monthly medications (Vetmedin approximately $75/month and gabapentin approximately $12/month). Because of his heart condition and advanced age, Pluto is considered a super senior whose remaining time may be shorter rather than longer — but he is currently stable and enjoying life at his own pace.
Pluto is still polishing his housebreaking skills and does very well with pee pads and regular potty breaks every 4–6 hours. He does not do stairs and is not a leash walker (likely due to having had a less mobile owner in the past), and he absolutely despises car rides. The good news? He barely barks, is fine being handled, and is perfectly content lounging in his dog bed or quietly cruising around the house.
He gets along with dogs, cats, and other animals, though he prefers to dine alone due to mild food guarding (he may growl if another dog approaches his bowl). Pluto would do best in a calm home, ideally with a senior or quiet household with older children or teens. He does not need a fenced yard and is perfectly fine being left in a room or large area when home alone.
Pluto’s ideal person is someone who appreciates an independent, quirky little companion — a buddy who enjoys being near his people but still likes to do things on his own terms. If you are looking for a gentle, low-key friend to share quiet days and cozy nights, Pluto may just be your perfect match. 💙
