Entrant's First Name
Eden

City
Asheville

My Story
Toby was adopted 2 years ago at the age of 6 years old. I was at a farm having a horseback riding lesson when a car drove up and dropped off Toby to live at the farm. He was confused, scared and his left eye was severely taken over by what turned out to be Glaucoma.

We had an instant connection. My horse trainer asked me if I wanted to keep him and without hesitation I said “yes!”.
The whole drive home Toby stayed in my lap giving me kisses and just staring at me. He was instantly attached to me and whenever I left the house, he would wait by the door until I got home. Toby came into my life during a very difficult time. I was a Junior in College struggling with anxiety and depression. My roommate moved out unexpectedly, leaving me very scared to be living all alone in an apartment in the middle of a city. Toby naturally took on the role as my emotional support animal. When I was nervous or feeling loney, he would reassure me with kisses. He has a hilarious personality and does silly things like running laps around the house or playing with his super, tiny tennis ball all by himself.

Something unique about Toby is that he doesn’t have the stereotypical Chihuahua behaviors. Even his vet made a comment that he is the first Chihuahua to not snap at her! He is gentle and friendly to all humans and creatures, although his small dog attitude does come out in his initial few minutes when meeting a dog larger than him. I work at a therapeutic boarding school called The Asheville Academy for Girls and Toby does a great job at comforting students while they are struggling. I believe Toby came into my life for a special reason. I could not imagine life without his sweet smile and endless kisses.

After having to get Toby’s left eye removed, he became an even more energetic and happy pup. His hobbies include going on long walks (and even hikes) with his Mom (Me), getting tummy rubs, and eating any jerky style treat! I hope that Toby can get the recognition that he deserves because he is truly such a special boy.