WHAT A STORY RICKY COULD TELL. This little Shih Tzu mix was found as a stray, and it is obvious that at one time he was loved and cared for ... and then he was not. Our best guess is that he is between 7 and 9 years-old. He came to TDR in awful condition. His hair was matted to his skin and his teeth were a mess. He was extremely scared, to the point that we could not get near him for days. He has made great strides physically and in his behavior, but he remains a work in progress. We are unable to adopt him to a anyone with children or an elderly family member in the household. Ricky is not fully house trained, although he uses pee pads and will take care of his business every time he goes outside. This is a smart guy! He  knows well commands for sit, lie down, shake and roll over. At some point in his life, someone took the time with him and he is hoping to find another person who will give him the attention he deserves. He is becoming a little snuggle bug but he still can have periods where he feels threatened and may snap at you, but that is happening very infrequently now. If you are looking for a guy to watch a movie and cuddle with, Ricky is your guy. He isn't very active, and while he tolerates his fellow canines, he doesn't interact much with them, so he would do great as a single pet. We have no information on how he reacts to cats. Ricky has cataracts but he gets around perfectly. He also is on medication for liver function, but retesting is required to determine if he will need it permanently. He is neutered, heartworm negative, microchipped and up to date on vaccinations. Ricky needs a new home with patient people who will be consistent in his training and sensitive to his fears and needs. Available through Tired Dog Rescue, Gulfport, MS. Fee: $125. Apply at tireddogrescue.org

We at Tired Dog Rescue strive to find homes for dogs in need, build quality relationships with responsible owners, and preserve current dog-family homes by seeking solutions to financial, behavioral, and situational dog problems. We believe the lives of homeless, abandoned and abused dogs are just as precious as dogs that currently have a loving home. We believe that all dogs deserve a loving home despite their age, medical condition and/or disabilities. We provide whatever medical care is needed regardless of cost. All dogs are spayed/neutered, heartworm negative and current on vaccinations before being placed.