Arrived in NZCR care: 08/05/2024
DOB: 28/06/2020
Sex: Female
Breed: Chihuahua - Long Coat
De-Sexed: Yes.
Micro-chipped: Yes.
Registered with NZCAR: Yes.
Vaccinated: Yes.
DogsNZ (NZKC): No,
Council Registered: Yes - Christchurch City Council.
Cat Friendly: Yes.
Child Friendly: 6 years and older.
Human Sociable: Yes, see below details.
Dog Sociable: Yes.
* TBC = "To be confirmed"
Background:
Stella originally came from. We are advised that Stella was rescued from a "puppy farmer" in Otago. Unfortunately after a short period, her owner couldn't continue to look after Stella, due to their own health issues.
Personality:
Stella is described as a sweet-natured and affectionate companion once she’s comfortable.
Stella’s foster mum says, “Stella is very sweet. After two days of being completely shut down, she’s come around. She’s even been good with toileting. She’s a wee gem. Currently having a snuggle on the couch. Stella likes being near but doesn’t have to be on you, or have constant petting. She’s also good on the leash. Just timid with city noises. She loves men! Someone is going to get very lucky when they adopt this one!”
When she came into foster care, Stella wasn't overly used to being out and about. But she is certainly beginning to enjoy exploring and walks! We will continue to focus on helping Stella build confidence and adjust to the outside world, her adoptive family will need to provide the same gentle support.
Stella's foster mum advises that she has learnt crate training quickly and easily - she sleeps in her crate overnight without any issues. Stella has also been great with her toilet-training reinforcement. Stella needs a strong, calm and capable pack leader able to continue her success with her socialization, crate and toilet-training.
Stella’a prior owner advises that due to her history, she can be wary of new faces. It does take her a day or two to adjust to new faces and any new adopter will need to take care not to overwhelm her and leave her to "go at her own pace." For the first few days she will be shy and withdrawn, but once she feels comfortable she will become the fun, loving Stella we've experienced in foster care!
Any kids in the home should be 6 years old and be doggy knowledgeable. Stella would be fine around older children she grows to know. But wouldn't be suitable for a busy young family for example, the noise and activity would likely overwhelm her. Sudden noises or activity would frighten her.
Stella is also fine being left at home with another doggy-companion for a few hours during the day. Once Stella has been introduced correctly, Stella enjoys the company of other small dogs and has a big soft spot for felines! We think Stella would enjoy a home with dog-confident cats and/or 1-2 dogs. Stella has always lived with other small dogs and we think this would be best for her.
Health:
Stella had her vet visit on 9 May 2024 and received her microchip and vaccines update. Stella's overall health check went well as her teeth, heart and joints are all fine. Although Stella has a grade 1 loose patella on both sides, which could be aided by weight-loss and physio, due to it's low stage. The main health issue for Stella at the moment is her weight - Stella is currently 3.37kg and should be around 2.5kg. We have begun Stella on a diet using Royal Canin – Satiety.
Stella will be adopted out de-sexed, vaccinated up to date, micro-chipped (and with the chip registered with the NZ Companion Animal Register and the local Council) as all of our dogs are.
How Do These Dogs recieve the care needed to ready them for adoption?
New Zealand Chihuahua Rescue is a registered New Zealand charity run by a small team of passionate volunteers. The funds raised go towards the dogs in our care (and any community dogs we may support). Our modest income is a result of your kind donations, sponsorship, and our fundraising projects. The dogs in care each require medical or behavioral assistance so we're often short on funds - sadly this limits how many dogs we can help1
If you can, please consider donating to our cause either as a one-off or on an ongoing basis. Every donation, big or small, makes a difference! As we are a registered charity, please contact us for a receipt to claim back 33.33% of your donation from the IRD.
Donations can be made via:
The New Zealand Chihuahua Rescue Westpac Trust Account:
03-0823-0074502-000
Ref: "Stella"
By credit or debit card to our GiveALittle:
https://givealittle.co.nz/org/nz-chihuahua-rescue-trust
Adopter Requirements:
Note: before applying to adopt, please ensure you meet the adopter requirements listed above. These guidelines are set with the dogs' needs in mind, based on input from foster carers. If you do not meet these requirements, your application will be declined as there are no exceptions. Please review the criteria carefully. Thank you!
Adoption Fee: $600.00 to be paid to the NZCR trust account no. 03-0823-0074502-000
Our adoption fees consider the dog's age, health, and any ongoing care costs. These fees cover micro-chipping (including NZCAR registration), vaccinations, de-sexing, council registration (current year) and any other treatments required. This includes flea and worm treatments, medications, additional surgeries such as a dental, and food. We do not accept payment plans as adopters must demonstrate financial readiness for a pet. Please read more about our adoption process by clicking below.
If you can spare $5 to donate, every little bit helps your generosity is both needed and appreciated!
NZCR are a volunteer-run charity that survives off of donations and fundraising projects to be able to continue our good work.
A "little" goes a long way and every cent counts!