Zika is a much-loved character here at D4R. He is affectionate and charming, with a big personality packed into a little body. Zika forms incredibly strong bonds with the people he trusts, and once you have earned this you’ll discover just how loving this sweet boy can be.
Zika has lived in a home before and absolutely adores his home comforts and having his favourite person nearby. He would love a quiet, peaceful home where he can settle into a predictable routine and enjoy life at his own pace. A secure garden, a comfy spot to rest his head and someone who has plenty of love and time to give him would be his idea of heaven.
He is a fairly low-energy boy who spends much of his time snoozing, but he does enjoy his walks (as long as it isn’t raining!) He is a very clever boy and eager to learn, and his love of food makes training a real pleasure.
Zika will need careful management around resources. He can become protective of things he considers particularly valuable, so his new family will need to understand this and manage his environment carefully. Long-lasting chews will not be suitable for him, and his adopters will need to respect his space and never challenge him over possessions. At night, Zika needs his own quiet, undisturbed sleeping area. His bedroom space will need to remain his sanctuary, so he won’t be able to sleep in his adopter’s bedroom or share the bed. Giving him this predictable, peaceful space helps him feel safe and prevents him from feeling the need to guard his sleeping area.
Zika does best when life is predictable, with kind but consistent boundaries and a clear routine. He is very much a ‘things happen on my terms’ kind of dog and doesn’t cope well with being forced into interactions. Instead, he needs people who can read him and will give him the choice and space to approach when he feels comfortable. When he does come to you looking for fuss, he is the sweetest cuddle bug, and his affection is something very special.
Zika needs an adult-only home with very few visitors and no visiting children. A quiet household, ideally with one person and very little coming and going would suit him best. He does not cope well with being shut away and needs a home where he can move freely and feel part of everyday life.
Although Zika can enjoy the company of compatible dogs, he would be happiest as the only dog in the home. He doesn’t want to share his space or his special person’s attention with another dog.
Zika is a boy who forms deep attachments and can find separation from his person difficult. Because of this, he needs an patient and experienced adopter who understands dogs well and is able to continue to work with him to help him feel more secure. Zika has bitten in the past and can react quickly if he feels challenged or unsafe, so understanding and respecting his boundaries is incredibly important.
We would absolutely love to see Zika find his retirement home, somewhere peaceful where he can feel understood and adored. He deserves someone who will take the time to get to know him properly and appreciate all the wonderful qualities that make him Zika. If you think you could be that special person for him, we would love for you to spend time getting to know Zika here at the rescue before taking the next step.
Adoption fee: £250