Avalon

* This dog will be at the Palo Alto Pet Food Express on Saturday, October 17th from 12PM – 3PM (unless adopted prior to the event). 3910 Middlefield Road
All DPS Rescue dogs are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, dewormed, flea/tick treated, and microchipped prior to adoption.

Adoption fee: $700
Avalon: Pink Nose, Hazel Eyes, Adventure Pending
Age: 10–12 months old | Weight: 10 lbs | Cavalier King Charles Spaniel mix
Avalon has a pink nose, hazel eyes, and a surprising résumé for a dog who only recently discovered life beyond a backyard: beach outings, hikes, excellent leash manners, and a strong commitment to sleeping in. She’s still deciding whether being admired by strangers is her thing, but strangers have already decided that admiring Avalon is theirs. This little beauty gets compliments everywhere she goes.
DPS rescued Avalon alongside 19 other dogs from a hoarding situation. They had never left the yard, walked on a leash, or lived inside a house. Everything from a bedroom to a beach was brand new. These sweet dogs have been learning “how to dog” one experience at a time, and Avalon’s progress has been especially rewarding to watch.
A Tiny Travel Companion
Some dogs hear “beach day” and start packing. Avalon lets her person handle the itinerary, then comes along for the experience. She has enjoyed both beach trips and hikes with her foster, and she’s equally happy with a quieter day at home. Her energy level seems to come with a convenient adjustable setting: a little exploring, a little walking, a little lounging.
For a girl who had never worn a leash before rescue, she has made impressive strides. Avalon walks well, doesn’t bark at other dogs, and checks in with her person along the way. Unfamiliar people and larger dogs can still make her nervous, but regular outings are helping her discover that the world holds more than things to worry about.
The Couch Has Two Departments
Underneath the couch is Avalon’s private retreat. On top of the couch is the cuddle department.
Left to choose, she often heads underneath, where she feels secure. But when her foster gently lifts her onto the couch, she curls right up beside them and enjoys the affection. There’s a loving little companion emerging here; she just appreciates some help getting the evening started.
Avalon is also curious about household happenings. Get up and move around, and she’ll often follow to see what you’re doing. She wants to be part of things, even while she’s still gathering the courage to fully join in.
Her Schedule? Whatever’s on Yours.
Avalon’s foster has a changing schedule, and this easygoing girl has adapted beautifully. Mornings begin with a walk followed by breakfast, whenever the household gets up. She enjoys several walks throughout the day, typically in the morning, around noon, in the afternoon, and at night.
She has been reliably housetrained in her foster home, with no accidents reported. Regular outdoor breaks keep that excellent record going, and she needs to go out promptly after waking. She hasn’t learned to use a doggie door.
At bedtime, “Let’s go night-night” is her cue. Her foster leads her to the bedroom, she hops into her crate, and she sleeps peacefully until her person wakes up. She has also shown no signs of separation anxiety in her foster home.
Small-Dog Social Club
Avalon lives with a Shih Tzu and generally gets along well with her canine housemate, including relaxing beside her. She has occasionally growled when the other dog passes, so she still needs space and thoughtful introductions. She has also met another Shih Tzu and a Yorkie without problems.
A compatible small dog could be a nice companion, though she could also be the only dog in her home. Larger dogs frighten her. She has not been introduced to cats or children, and a calm adult home—or one with gentle, dog-savvy older children—would be the most sensible fit for her current comfort level.
A Few Things Her Future Person Should Know
Avalon’s confidence is growing, but sh