Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/long-stay-itchigo/

Meet Itchigo, aka Itchy. He’s a handsome pibble mix who weighs approximately 48 pounds and is believed to be about 2.2 years old. And to set the record straight, he doesn’t have skin issues. His pals just call him Itchy for short.

Shelter Staff at Pima Animal Care Center in southern Arizona made the following comments about this sweet fella:

Itchigo has also gone by the aliases Baloo and Maui in the past. It’s safe to assume Itchy is a man of many faces, with many hidden talents and stories to tell. With so many pseudonyms . . . is he an international spy? Maybe. But the first rule of being a spy is that you don’t talk about being an international spy, so he’s not talking. Or is that the first rule of Fight Club?

It doesn’t matter. What matters is that this sweetest of boys is ready to retire from his fast-paced career of whatever it is he does and spend the rest of his days lounging around in a loving forever home!

Itchigo was housebroken in his prior home and used a doggy door. His former person described him as a sweet, people-loving dog who is energetic and fun. Itchigo wasn’t happy to be back at PACC after a bit of time away, but he’s come around quickly and is loving, affectionate, and really likes to snuggle with his volunteer friends. Here’s what they’ve said about him:

Animal Shelter Volunteers

“Itchigo was so scared when he first came back to us, but he opened up so quickly and is one of the most affectionate dogs I know. He’s doing great these days — always happy, easy to leash up, and loves to sniff and scamper around the play yard. He always comes back in for some affection and attention, though! Itchigo has a lot of fans, and it’s so easy to see why!”

“I recently had the opportunity to meet Itchigo when walking with another volunteer. After reading his notes, I expected to have some difficulty leashing him, since I was a stranger to him. Instead, he greeted me like an old friend. A little shy, but loose body and wagging tail. He was easy to leash and was non-reactive to dogs in the kennels as we walked past. He is a nice, easy walker and takes treats gently. I’ve had the opportunity to walk him a few more times since then. He’s always been sweet and easy to handle. He’s come a long way since his early days, and I believe would make a great companion.”

Animal Rescue Foster Care

During a stay in a foster home, Itchigo did great with a teenager and a 9-year-old child. His foster home was a fairly busy one and he adapted well. He was crate trained and described by his foster as a bit timid but loving and friendly with all people.

When meeting other dogs in the playgroup, Itchigo was a tad nervous at first but warmed up and was social and easygoing. He’ll do well in a home with older kiddos, and with a family who will take things slowly as he adjusts to a new environment. Once he’s comfortable, he’s one of the most loving dogs you’ll ever meet!!

Ask to meet Itchigo Shihai today! Neutered, he’s been at the shelter since October 18, 2022, and is absolutely ready to go home today! He’s in Kennel D041, and his ID# is A765043. If you are interested in adopting him, please email pacc.adopt@pima.gov for an adoption application or with additional questions. Please consider sharing Itchy with our friends.

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Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog