Gabe, my Sweet Shih Tzu Rescue

by Victoria
(Pensacola, Fl, USA)

Gabe is my 4th Shih Tzu since 1980. I rescued him at 11 mo of age from a small dog rescue. He is now almost 6 and my Best Buddy Ever!

He is a very picky eater but loves treats, which is beginning to be a problem as he is slowing down and becoming a little 'chubby'.

My Vet hasn't said anything... He's always been on the larger side(12-pounds at 1 yr, 16-pounds, now). I feed him a good quality food, (salmon and sweet potato), mixed with a little egg.

The Vet says he's allergic to chicken and beef. Don't know if this is optimal.

He's also had an eye problem also, that almost cost him an eye. Luckily, he was cured with oral antibiotics and eye drops. I still use preventive drops daily now! Thanks for your newsletter... Just joined! 😊👏

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Hi, Janice Here from Miracle Shih Tzu
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Sounds like your little boy is a very fortunate dog to have found you. Are Shih Tzu dogs the best?

I would just point out that what you are feeding him sounds like an ideal diet and the fact that he is slowing down a bit is quite normal for his age.

If you think that treats are a problem, you could try green beans, carrots, or even some fruit as snacks. (not grapes). Berries are good for dogs. At least that way you would feel good that he is getting very healthy snacks.

I'm also glad you pointed out just how easy it is for these little fur babies to have eye problems. People don't realize that eye issues, even if cured can mean that we will end up administering drops for the rest of their lives.

Thanks for sharing, Victoria.


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I hold an undergraduate degree in Psychology with a minor in biology, Early Childhood Education, and Nursing, and a Master's in Mental Health Counseling.

I'm a lifelong learner, a dog lover, and passionate about the welfare of animals. Though Shih Tzu is my favorite breed, I've also lived with Poodles, Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers, Beagles, English Bulldogs, Carin Terriers, and a Cocker Spaniel. Little critters that shared my space included guinea pigs, rabbits, chinchillas, hamsters, mice, tropical fish, and birds. (Oh, and one crayfish and hermit crab that my daughter brought home from school)

When not writing, reading, and researching dog-related topics, I love spending time with my 6 Shih Tzu dogs, husband, and family, as well as knitting and crocheting. She is also the voice behind Small Dog Place and Smart-Knit-Crocheting. Please visit my other two sites or send me a note.