Instructions
Educate yourself about Shih Tzus. Before you adopt a Shih Tzu, make certain that this is the right breed for your family. Since Shih Tzus are small dogs they will do well in an apartment or other setting where they can be walked on a leash. If you want a dog to jog with, a Shih Tzu is not the right dog for your family.
Contact your pet care professionals. Families that need to re-home their pets usually contact their veterinarian, groomer or kennel operator to see if they know of someone looking for a dog. The benefit of rescuing a Shih Tzu through your veterinarian or other professional is that the dog's temperament is known.
Search for a Shih Tzu on Petfinder.com (see Resources) or another shelter portal. From the comfort of your home, petfinder.com allows you to see pictures and videos of homeless Shih Tzus in shelters near your home. Many rescue groups even begin the adoption process by providing online applications. If you find a Shih Tzu at a rescue group, be prepared to fill out an online application, participate in an interview and be visited by a representative at your home.
Visit local animal shelters. Although small dogs are found in shelters throughout the United States, Massachusetts shelters usually do not have many Shih Tzus in their shelters. If you find a Shih Tzu in a Massachusetts animal shelter and are interested in adopting that dog, act quickly. Small dogs usually move out of shelters quickly.
Check Craigslist. Use caution and common sense when responding to Craigslist ads. Although Craigslist rules provide that breeders should not sell animals there, they do. Just because someone says Shih Tzu needs rescue or for adoption does not mean that this is true. A Shih Tzu in need of a home because of moving or other issues can be found on Craigslist, you just have to wade through the breeder ads.
How to Rescue a Shih Tzu in Massachusetts
Shih Tzus are happy, friendly, energetic small dogs. Typical Shih Tzus weigh less than ten pounds. They get along well with other pets. Shih Tzus are not quiet dogs; they are expressive and bark to alert their family about intruders. Shih Tzus make a good choice for a family with children older than eight, since they are small dogs, toddlers can easily injure a Shih Tzu. Adding a rescue Shih Tzu to your family will lead to years of joy and love.