Courtesy post: Sunny Needs a Special Forever Home
Meet Sunny, an absolutely adorable 8-year-old purebred Havanese weighing about 9 pounds and packed with personality! Sunny is a little clown, a loyal companion, a professional snuggler, and a dog who loves his people deeply. He will happily let you rub his belly, soak up affection from the people he trusts, and follow his favorite person around like a little shadow. He is also curious, active, smart, and loves being outside. His family says he would happily go on walks all day if given the opportunity!
Sunny has spent his entire life with his dad, who is now struggling with declining health and dementia. Unfortunately, Sunny has not been getting the regular meals, exercise, socialization, or structure he needs. He has lived primarily using pee pads, has very little basic obedience, and has some fears that were never properly addressed. He can be vocal when he hears unfamiliar people or noises outside the apartment and can become fearful and reactive when overwhelmed, particularly around men or when he feels restrained or frightened.
We want to be completely honest about Sunny's history because finding him the right home is incredibly important. Sunny has bitten three times that his family is aware of. The first was a single bite when a male neighbor reached out to pet him. The second occurred when his dad fell during a walk; after his dad was helped up, he bent down to pick Sunny up and Sunny bit his hand. Most recently, while staying with family, Sunny became frightened after a male neighbor attempted to pet him. He growled and the neighbor backed away. When Sunny's harness came loose, a family member tried to pick him up and hold him for his safety. Sunny became extremely fearful and repeatedly bit his hands, resulting in multiple punctures and an urgent care visit.
This is not a story about a "bad" dog. It is a story about a very small dog who has lived a very limited life, has never learned how to properly cope with fear and stress, and desperately needs someone who understands that his behavior is communication. His family truly believes he is far from a lost cause, and we agree that the right environment and experienced person could make all the difference.
Sunny needs a calm, quiet home with no children and limited exposure to stressful situations. He would do best with someone who understands fearful dogs and is willing to give him time, patience, structure, and professional behavioral support. Based on his history, a woman may be the best fit, particularly someone who will allow Sunny to build trust at his own pace rather than forcing interaction or handling him when he is afraid. He has never lived with another animal, so a home where he can be the only pet would likely be safest.
His family had hoped to bring Sunny into their own home, but they have a senior 55-pound dog, live in a city apartment building, and recognize that neither situation is what Sunny needs. As heartbreaking as that decision is, they are putting Sunny's best interests first.
Sunny is current on his vaccinations through October 2026, and his rabies vaccination is good through October 2028. His most recent veterinary exam found him to be in good health with no notable changes or concerns.
Sunny is not going to be the right dog for everyone. But somewhere out there is someone who understands that beneath the fear is a tiny, affectionate, hilarious little Havanese who wants to love his person and be loved in return. He deserves the chance to learn that the world doesn't have to be scary.
If you are experienced with fearful or behaviorally challenged small dogs and believe you may be the right person for Sunny, please contact Sasha at a.birschbach@gmail.com. Please share Sunny so this little guy can find the calm, patient and understanding home he desperately needs.
