How to Rescue a Shih Tzu in Houston

By Natalie Gailes

Instructions

Step 1:
Contact a Houston area shih tzu rescue organization. Lonestar Shih Tzu and Llaso Apso Rescue of Texas rescues shih tzus in around the Houston area. Contact them online (see Resources) to inquire about their available dogs.
Step 2:
Follow the rescue organization's adoption procedures. Lonestar Shih Tzu and Llasa Apso require you to be at least 18 years old before you adopt a dog. They also require you to complete an extensive adoption application, provide them the veterinarian records from your previous pets, supply a list of three personal references and schedule a home visit. Once you complete the screening process and choose a dog, you will be required to pay a rescue fee based on the shih tzu's age. Rescue fees begin at $150 and go up to $400.
Step 3:
Familiarize yourself with Houston city ordinances that pertain to dog ownership. In Houston, the Bureau of Animal Regulation and Care enforces these laws. Houston requires that all dogs over the age of four months have current rabies vaccinations and proper licensing. It also requires that all dogs adopted through shelters and rescue organizations to be surgically sterilized. Make sure you are in compliance with Houston city ordinances by viewing a complete listing online at The City of Houston website (see Resources).
Step 4:
Build a network of support to ensure a successful rescue. Shih tzus are challenging dogs with unique characteristics and needs. Join The Shih Tzu Breed Club of Greater Houston to meet other people who know a lot about shih tzus. Find information about it online at Net Pets (see Resources). Enroll your dog in obedience classes to address any problem behaviors. There are several places in Houston to find obedience classes for your shiz tzu. These include The Houston Obedience Training Club and Pup Scouts (see Resources).

Tips & Warnings

Shih tzus are not recommended for families with small children.

Resources

Photo/Video Credit

Image by: http://www.sxc.hu

More Puppy Pages

How to Rescue a Shih Tzu in Seattle

Shih Tzu dogs are beautiful companions. They are an indoor dog that need companionship. They are lifetime companions that will be part of your family for the next 14 to 18 years. Shih Tzu dogs are a high-maintenance breed, requiring regular grooming and...

A shih tzu is a very nice small dog that makes a wonderful companion. They are very well suited to anybody who lives in an apartment or flat and doesn't have enough space for a larger breed.

Shih Tzu rescues in Wisconsin work to rescue the dogs from local shelters, owners who have had to abandon their dog, and lost dogs who have been recovered. The dogs undergo a physical exam from a vet and if need be are nursed back to health. By adopting...

The Shih Tzu breed of dogs originated in Tibet. The average specimen weighs less than 12 lbs. and has a shoulder height of 10 inches. Shih Tzus have a 10- to 12-year life span. The dogs are social by nature and do well with other breeds. Dogs are rescued...

According the American Kennel Club, the Shih Tzu is one of the most popular dogs in America. Because of its small size and friendly demeanor, the Shih Tzu makes for a wonderful pet, whether you have a home with a large yard or live in an apartment or...