Name of shelter or rescue organization where you got your pet
Morris Animal Refuge

Pet's Story or Bio
Romeo is a 3-year-old Shih Tzu living in South Philly. He was rescued from Morris Animal Refuge, and he’s been my loyal companion through both my hardest days and my happiest ones. With a huge heart and a bigger personality, Romeo continues to show every day the joy a rescue dog can create.

Romeo is instantly recognizable by his slightly crooked Shih Tzu nose, which our vet believes is the result of trauma from his past with previous owners. But that hasn’t slowed him down; it’s only made him stronger and more special. At home, he proudly serves as our “Shih Tzu Patrol Dog,” taking his guarding duties very seriously and making sure no stranger slips by unnoticed. Once he’s outside, though, Romeo’s all about making new friends, especially if they have treats to share!

Romeo answers to his name right away, but he’s also collected a handful of nicknames along the way, such as Shih Tzu Romeo, Chief, and even Fat Boy (from back when we adopted him, his long, puffy fur made him look extra chunky). Like many Shih Tzus, he has a bit of selective hearing. Of course, he’s especially quick to respond to his important words: Shih Tzu treat, Shih Tzu walk, Shih Tzu car ride, and, of course, food.

He even knows the exact routes to his favorite pet stores (there used to be three, but now there are two) and remembers every small business in the neighborhood that hands out dog treats. When he’s not on patrol or scouting for goodies, Romeo is all about the simple joys: curling up for long naps, savoring berries and watermelon, begging for some rotisserie chicken, and riding shotgun on his Shih Tzu car rides.

Romeo's story is living proof that second chances lead to the sweetest companions, and that unconditional love (and treats) can heal anything.