Lia was very sick when surrendered to FBRN’s care, but thanks to her sponsors and the loving care of her foster home she is now ready to graduate to her forever home! Lia has received treatment for her ear infections, bacterial infections, UTIs, severe allergies, a hernia, and an ulcer on her eye. In addition, Lia is deaf and has poor vision overall. Lia has a history of back problems caused by bone malformations in her two front legs. Her legs might look a little funny, but Lia’s foster mom points out that this should not be seen as a defect, but rather adds character to this very special girl.

Lia’s allergies have been well maintained with grain-free food, and she undergoes weekly medicated baths and regular wipe-downs when she comes in from outside. Her forever home should prepare to follow this routine. Lia’s vet noticed an elongated soft palate but does not recommend surgery, so she must be closely monitored in high temperatures.

Lia would be fine with older children who can understand her special needs – she is adored by the nine year-old boy in her foster home. Her forever home must have experience with Frenchies; experience with deaf dogs would be fabulous!

Lia loves chewing on and de-stuffing stuffed toys, playing with tennis balls, and Frenchie wrestling. She also loves to sleep and is a major snuggler. Because Lia is truly a companion dog, a person who is home all day or who works part-time is ideal.

Lia is partially housebroken; she follows a strict routine. She has also learned to go to the door and bark when she needs to go out. Lia loves her crate. However, she can be very territorial and protective of the area where her crate is and will need a strong leader to help her overcome her insecurities and build her confidence.

Lia will NEED a fenced yard and a rural area is preferred- Lia's true comfort zone is not in urban USA. Because of her limited vision & deafness- the hustle and bustle of a city causes extra anxiety and stress for her. An experienced dog owner is highly preferred. Not only because of her special needs, but also because Lia needs someone who is committed to continue the training she needs in order to be comfortable in a new environment.

Lia enjoys the company of Cooper, the 2 year-old resident Frenchie in her foster home, however her style of play was not well tolerated by Brody, the resident 85-pound mutt in her foster home. Lia has exhibited some aggressive reactions and will therefore require a strong leader willing to commit to her ongoing training regimen.

Because Lia cannot hear, she is very sensitive to movement. Sometimes shadows will alert her and she will bark, but she is easily calmed. Lia’s foster mom tells us about the challenges of her obedience training due to her deafness—Lia has learned to watch faces for expressions and knows the "bad girl finger", but has more potential in this area. Lia’s forever home should have strong leaders committed to the ongoing training needed for a deaf dog.

Lia’s foster mom has this to say about her:

“…When Lia came into our lives we were shocked at how gentle and loving she was. She had every right to not trust us, and to be wary of any human after what she had been put through, on top of not being able to hear or see very well. With love, attention and most of all, comfort, Lia thrives and flourishes. Lia has a beautiful soul and a quirky little personality that melts your heart within minutes of meeting her. My two favorite sounds are listening to her little snore and hearing she and Cooper play. She is such a happy gal, finally living the life that was meant for her all along. Lia has long forgotten about her past life and is soaking up every second of her new one. It's the little things in life that just delight her to no end—being outside in the backyard, sniffing and taking in every inch of the ground, chasing a bird or butterfly. My hope is that Lia's new home can offer her the same unconditional love, care and companionship that she deserves.”

Lia is deep in the heart of Central Texas, where she has stolen the hearts of her foster family who insist on only the best for this sweet girl. If you are the lucky person chosen to adopt Lia, plan on a road trip, because as you know Lia’s days of being shipped are long behind her!

Apply for me here!