From Euthanasia List to Gentle Soul—This 7-Year-Old Shih Tzu Mix Is Finally Getting His Second Chance at Life

Apr 17, 2026

Toby - Shih Tzu — Credit: Animal Saints Rescue Society

Here's What You Need To Know:

Pending Adoption? no
Pet's Location: fort montgomery NY, 10922
Pet's Age: 7 Years 3 Months
Pet's Size: small
Pet's Gender: male
Pet's Color: white with tan, yellow or fawn
Pet's Breed: Shih Tzu / Lhasa Apso / Mixed (long coat)
Pet's Activity Level: Slightly Active
Pet good with dogs? no
Pet good with cats? no
Pet good with kids? no

Organization:

Name: animal saints rescue society
Address: PO BOX 236, Fort Montgomery, NY 10922
Site: http://AnimalSaints.org

Toby’s story could have ended quietly in an overcapacity animal control facility—one where space determines fate. He was an owner surrender, left behind because he was no longer wanted or cared for, and placed on the euthanasia list simply due to lack of room. But just in time, Animal Saints Rescue Society stepped in and gave him something he had been denied: a future.

Now safe, Toby is no longer just surviving—he’s healing, slowly and beautifully, into the quiet, loyal companion he was always meant to be.

Why Toby Is So Easy to Fall in Love With

🐾 Gentle, calm, and deeply people-focused
💛 Follows his humans everywhere—just wants to be near you
🏡 Quiet house presence with soft, polite manners
🐶 Gentle when meeting other dogs
🚶‍♂️ Enjoys short, peaceful walks in calm environments
🛋️ Happy to curl up at your feet or beside you all day

The Basics

🐾 Breed: Shih Tzu blend
🎂 Age: 7 years old
⚖️ Weight: ~16 lbs
🏡 Potty trained: Uses pads indoors + learning outdoor routine
🐕 Dog-friendly: Yes, gentle and social
🐱 Cat compatibility: Not specified

Medical & Care Notes

Toby has already received extensive veterinary care, including:
✔️ Vaccinations (Rabies, Bordetella, DHPP series)
✔️ Deworming & flea/tick prevention
✔️ Neuter surgery
✔️ Microchip
✔️ Dental care
✔️ Bloodwork (overall healthy organ function)
✔️ Heartworm & fecal tests (both negative)

He does have a grade 1 heart murmur, only heard by one veterinarian and currently not requiring medication.

He is also being treated for dry eye, managed easily with daily eye drops—which he accepts happily (especially when treats are involved).

He is recovering from a prior untreated skin infection and currently benefits from weekly medicated baths, which he enjoys as part of bonding and care.

What Toby Is Looking For

✔️ A calm, loving home where he can stay close to his person
✔️ Adults or older, respectful children experienced with dogs
✔️ Someone who understands grooming needs (professional grooming every 4–6 weeks)
✔️ A household where companionship is a priority
✔️ A patient adopter committed to positive reinforcement training

Ideal Home Environment

Toby thrives in a home where he is included in daily life. He doesn’t demand attention—he seeks closeness. He’ll happily follow you from room to room, rest beside your feet, and quietly be part of your world.

A secure yard is a bonus, but what he truly values is presence—someone who is there.