Artichoke Chihuahua Mix Scituate, MA

Artichoke is an incredibly sweet, gentle fella who is about 8-years-old. He is overall just an awesome little chihuahua, not at all falling into the typical chihuahua stereotype.

Artichoke will fit into most homes. He is lovely with all! He doesn't love to be alone and may bark a bit when his person first leaves but does settle here after a walk.

Artichoke has heart disease (chronic degenerative mitral and tricuspid valve disease with moderate left arial enlargement and left atrial chamber dilation) classified at ACVIM class B2. This is the most common type of heart disease in older small breed dogs. He will start on a heart medication called Pimobendan with an expected cost of about $70/month based on Chewy prices. He would also benefit from a prescription heart diet called Purina Cardiocare $80 for a 20lb bag.

The adopter should have a good relationship with their vet and it's recommended that he have a follow-up echocardiogram every 6 months but this can be at the new owner's discretion. It's also perfectly acceptable to adopt him out "as is" and just let him live out his life, knowing that he will develop congestive heart failure at some point.

Despite his medical challenges, his personality is amazing! Artichoke loves to takes walks and is excellent on leash and adores being with his people.

We do NOT respond to PetFinder inquires; we only respond to emails sent to adopt@scituateanimalshelter.org regarding adoption inquires.

All dogs are fixed, vaccinated, dewormed, flea treated and heartworm tested before adoption. Adoption fees are $500 for a dog, $700 for a puppy, and $350 for a dog with special needs or senior over 10 years old. Adoption fees allow our non-profit to continue to help pets in need.

Open hours are Wednesdays 1:30-6pm and Saturdays 10am-2pm for you to come view our adoptable pets. You can apply for animal at the shelter during our open hours or online by emailing adopt@scituateanimalshelter.org and asking for an application.

Meet and greets with animals are scheduled after applications have been processed and we’ve determined you are the best fit. We do not operate on a first come, first served basis.