The Shih Tzu is a small dog with a big character! With firmness and love they will develop into a really lovely dog.
In general they have a very happy, intelligent and lively character and will repay a good owner with love and devotion for many years. They are long lived, generally 14 to 16 years being the average life span, some much longer.
At Pure Paws Haven, the health, safety, and well-being of every Shih Tzu and rescue dogs in our care is our highest priority. We are committed to ensuring that each dog is healthy, properly cared for, and prepared for a successful transition into their new forever home.
Before adoption, every dog receives thorough care, monitoring, and age-appropriate veterinary attention. Our team works diligently to provide proper nutrition, socialization, exercise, and a clean, loving environment to help each dog thrive.
Every dog adopted from Pure Paws Haven receives:
Comprehensive health assessment
Age-appropriate vaccinations
Routine deworming treatments
Physical wellness examination
Monitoring for signs of illness or injury
Proper nutrition and daily care
Socialization and enrichment activities
Clean and safe living accommodations
Ongoing observation for behavioral and emotional well-being
We make every reasonable effort to ensure that each dog is healthy at the time of adoption. Because moving to a new environment can be stressful for any animal, we strongly recommend scheduling a veterinary wellness examination within 72 hours of bringing your dog home.
If your licensed veterinarian determines that your newly adopted dog has a serious pre-existing health condition within 72 hours of pickup or delivery, you must notify Pure Paws Haven immediately and provide written documentation from the examining veterinarian.
Once the information has been reviewed, we will work closely with you to determine an appropriate resolution based on the specific circumstances.
After adoption, the adopter assumes full responsibility for the ongoing care and well-being of their dog, including:
Routine veterinary care
Vaccinations and preventative treatments
Proper nutrition and hydration
Exercise and physical activity
Grooming and hygiene
Training and socialization
Safe housing and supervision
Emotional well-being and companionship
Providing consistent care is essential to maintaining your dog’s long-term health, happiness, and quality of life.
Many rescue dogs come from uncertain or unknown backgrounds. While we carefully assess each dog and provide appropriate care before adoption, Pure Paws Haven cannot guarantee against future illnesses, genetic conditions, allergies, behavioral changes, injuries, or age-related health concerns that may develop after adoption.
We strongly encourage all adopters to maintain regular veterinary care and preventative healthcare throughout the dog’s lifetime.
Our commitment is to give every rescue dog the best possible start and help them find a loving, responsible, and permanent home where they can flourish.