Zach

Have you ever felt an instant connection just from locking eyes with someone? That's exactly what happens when you meet Zach. It's clear he's lived a whole life. Our best guess? A retired academic — he's got the look of a scholar and the manners of a gentleman, bushy old-man brows and ear tassels to prove it. Whatever this guy lacks elsewhere, he more than makes up for in ears. Truly, scrumptious. And just like any respectable retiree, Zach runs on a schedule you could set your watch to. He's up every morning around 6:15–6:30 sharp, no exceptions, no snoozing — the early bird gets the worm, and Zach fully intends to be that bird. Dinner, meanwhile, is a very serious matter, and he'll begin his nightly campaign of incessant, dramatic begging right around 4:30 pm. If you're a night owl, this is not your guy. If you appreciate a housemate who keeps you on a wholesome schedule, Zach is your man. Don't let the geriatric routine fool you, though — the second the sun's up, he's got the energy of a dog half his age. He gets the occasional case of the zoomies, will absolutely attempt to play if you're willing, and genuinely lights up for a good casual stroll around the block. He's an old soul with a young heart, and it's honestly the best of both worlds. Behaviorally, he's an absolute gem. He rarely barks when he's settled and comfortable. He may show some generalized or separation anxiety at first, but he doesn't take long to regulate — usually just a couple of days with some simple exercises normalizing you coming and going. Zach has lived alongside 14 cats (yes, fourteen!) and two other small dogs, and honestly, he could not care less either way. He'd make a wonderful addition to just about any home and is anything but stingy with affection — expect plenty of sniffs, kisses, and the occasional tongue blep. Funny enough, he'll often do little laps at night just to check that you're still there, then settle right back down once he's confirmed you haven't gone anywhere — a very sweet, very old-man form of a bed check. He's house-trained and pad-trained and is accustomed to wearing a belly band on days when a relief walk every four to five hours isn't possible. On leash, Zach is an absolute pleasure — he trots along happily just about anywhere, though he's no marathoner, so a gentle pace suits him best (he's earned the right to take his time). Back at home, he's earned the title of connoisseur of comfort: he adores a good plush bed and will stack his beds, if given the opportunity. He's adjusting to his new toothless normal and prefers softer food but will devour kibble, too. He isn't picky, and will do just about anything for a bite of chicken or cream cheese. Zach may run on old-man time, but his heart is wide open and ready for his next chapter. Could you be the one he's been waiting for? Vaccinated for rabies, DHPP, bordetella, spayed/neutered and microchipped. Heartworm negative and current on flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. To apply to adopt Zach, visit our website (www.waggytailrescue.org) for an application. It is important to fill out an application as soon as possible for consideration, and we require a complete application for you to meet an animal. We are currently unable to respond to general email inquiries as an all-volunteer run rescue. If the dog is on our website, they are still available. Waggytail Rescue CANNOT guarantee the exact age of any adoptable dog, or final size of any of our adoptable puppies. We rely on the information provided to us by veterinarians, shelters, owner surrenders and other circumstances bringing the dog into our rescue. Questions: adopt@waggytailrescue.org