At 15 years old, Jake the Chihuahua mix has every reason to have given up - but that's just not who he is.

Jake was found wandering alone during a rainstorm, with no owner to be found. It was clear he had been surviving on his own for far too long. When he came into rescue, he was carrying the weight of years of neglect: an old broken leg that had healed improperly, a bleeding tumor on his backside, a broken jaw, very few remaining teeth, and toenails curled like corkscrews and he is hard of hearing.

Here's the good news.

His tumor was removed and thankfully tested benign. The teeth he has left have been cleaned, and he is finally living comfortable and much less painful days.

Jake's leg had been broken long ago and healed on its own without medical care. Because the bone already fused that way, it cannot be surgically repaired. He uses the leg for balance and gets around remarkably well. Amputation was considered, but at his age it would be far too difficult and unnecessary since he manages just fine the way he is.

His jaw was also broken at some point in his past. Unfortunately, due to degenerative bone loss in the jaw, it cannot be repaired. Even so, Jake eats like a champ and doesn't let it slow him down one bit.

Now that he feels better, his true personality is shining. He's spunky, curious, and has a little spark of sass. He loves exploring a fenced backyard and knows how to use a pet door. And while he may only have a few teeth, make no mistake - Jake is in charge. He bonds deeply to his person and prefers not to share his foster mom with other dogs. He'll chase them off without hesitation, and they listen!

Jake would do best in an all-adult home with a securely fenced yard where he can safely enjoy his golden years. He's a bit like having a tiny, opinionated baby - he needs patience and love - but he'll reward you with loyalty, character, and some surprisingly athletic little moves when you least expect it.

Jake is neutered, up to date on vaccinations, heartworm tested, and microchipped.

His adoption fee is $150.

If you're ready to give this resilient little survivor the peaceful, loving home he always deserved, please apply at:

www.misfitsdogrescue.org