Melanie

A 'SPECIAL NEEDS' HAPPY PUP: Approx. 1 year old / Approx. 16 lbs.

Hi, my name is Melanie! I'm a special girl with a big heart - one that's working harder than most. I was born with a significant heart condition that is expected to shorten my time here to around 3 to 4 years, but I'm determined to fill every single day with love, cuddles, and joy as I believe in living life to the fullest.

• OTHER DOGS/CATS/KIDS: I get along very well with the dogs in my foster home. I would likely enjoy another dog to play with in my new home, so if you have a nice doggie who would like a friend, but that would also not overwhelm me, let's meet! / I met 2 kitties when I was very young, and my regular foster thinks I may be a bit too playful for kitties. / I like the teen kids I've met in my foster home and think older kids like this will be best for me due to my heart condition. I didn't care for some younger kids I met in my foster home, so if you have calm older kids, let's meet!

• PERSONALITY/ENERGY LEVEL: I'm a happy-go-lucky pup with a sweet, lovable personality and a playful spirit that shines brightest when I'm around people. I'm not a big cuddler, and at times I'm a loner, but that doesn't mean I don't love being near you - I just like to enjoy your company in my own way. I've got some energy, but because of my heart condition, I'd like a calmer home where I can play and explore without too much overexcitement. My foster says I have a great personality and an easygoing charm, and I think once you meet me, you'll see what a special little pup I am. / My energy level in my foster home is quite high at 6-8, though it will likely lower as time goes on.

• SKILLS/CRATE/POTTY: I'm a pretty bright girl and already know the 'sit', 'outside' and 'lie down' commands. I bet you can teach me even more! / My crate manners are excellent in my foster home. / Potty training is coming along, but due to the medications I'm on, it's a bit of a challenge for me. I know when I've had an accident, but I just can't always hold it - especially first thing in the morning, when I might need a quick carry outside to avoid leaving a trail. So, know that there will be accidents and let's work together to make them as few as possible. Because of my frequent need to go out to potty, a stay-at-home or work-from-home family member is needed.

• LIKES/DISLIKES: It's hard to pick just one favorite, because as a happy-go-lucky pup, I love so many things - people, toys to play with and chew on, and soaking up a little sunshine outside with my family! I'm sure we'll discover even more things we'll love doing together! / My foster says I get startled by things that are new to me. Kibble in a metal bowl is suspect to me, and car rides make me nervous, so I take a calming medication before car rides. I also wouldn't like it if I didn't get enough love, attention, light exercise and training.

• MEDICAL: I'm current on my annual vaccinations, micro-chipped and spayed. As my heart condition progresses, the vet has added a new medication that they hope will help stabilize things for me. I'll be on heart medications for life so just ask about this as well as a heart/stomach measurement that my foster takes and is an indicator as to how I'm doing. I'll need heart checks/echocardiograms at UGA a few times a year.

I'm looking for a home with a cardiac knowledgeable family that understands my medical needs. My adoption fee is $100.00, and I'm located in Kennesaw, Ga.