Dooley ~ The Maltese's companion, Dudley The Senior Maltese (adopted) can also be seen on our website.

Description:
Dooley is a handsome little, and I do mean little, Maltese. We were contacted by Mary Beth, the administrator of Seminole County Animal Control, asking if we would come take him and his buddy Dooley. She knew it was unlikely that they would be adopted in the limited amount of time that she could give them, but that they sooo deserved a home. That's one of the things I love about Mary Beth ~ she truly tries to save as many of the pets as she can. Her concern for these two dogs is their vision ~ Dooley has a cataract in one eye, Duddley has them in both. Oh, and did I mention that they are heartworm positive?

Now, some people stopped reading right there and clicked on to the next pet. Good for you for not doing so! Having a cataract in one eye is really no big deal, it might even be correctable with surgery if so desired. Dooley would probably do better in a home without little children since they might "sneak up" on him on his blind side. Us heavier footed adults, well, let's face it ~ it's been a while since we snuck up on anyone. One of the really cool things about Dooley is that pick him up, he actually hugs you!

Dooley is a sweet little guy who deserves better than he has gotten. Can you imagine what it must have been like for him at animal control, unfamiliar place, unfamiliar sounds? My heart aches for him. If you think that you would like to give him a home but are intimidated by his vision, consider fostering him. I truly believe that after a couple of days you'll realize that he can not only find his way around your home, he has found his way around your heart!

Volunteer update: I met Dooley when i went to pick up my foster dog after she was spayed. Dooley had just been neutered and he was wondering around the yard with all the other dogs doing there business. When we went to bring them inside i cautiously picked him up (i knew he was blind in one eye and wanted to keep from surprising him). When i picked him up he automatically clinged to me and seems relaxed. He was so comfortable he almost fell asleep! What a sweet heart...he didn't know me from the next person and he was just so very trusting! My heart aches for him! I wish my 60lbs puppies wouldn't run him over or i would take him home to foster! What a cute LITTLE guy! I think he would make a great compaion for someone whom is retired or just wants a friend who is always willing to cuddle!

According to www.dogbreedinfo.com, this ancient dog was described by the Greek philosopher Theophrastus as belonging to the "Melita" breed, an archaic name for Malta. It was developed in Italy with the addition of miniature spaniel and poodle blood. It was thought that these lively little dogs were first brought to England by Crusaders returning home from the Mediterranean. The breed became particularly popular with women, who often carried them in their sleeves and even to their beds. The dog was not only popular with women though. Publius, the Roman governor of Malta, prized his Maltese enough to commission a portrait of "Issa" and even have poetry written about her. Today, the glamorous Maltese is an adored pet and sought-after show dog.
The Maltese is spirited, lively and playful. Gentle, loving, trusting and devoted to its master. Highly intelligent. Good at learning tricks if he feels sufficiently rewarded. Bold and quick to sound the alarm in case of suspicious noises. It is a classical companion dog; graceful and lovable. They do well with other animals. Maltese love to play outdoors but have a penchant for jumping in puddles. A bath must follow! These dogs can be snappish with inconsiderate children and may be difficult to housebreak. Sometimes they are picky eaters. Include small biscuits and dry dog food in this breed's regular diet to help the teeth stay strong and healthy. Do not over-pamper or overprotect these little dogs, for some become unstable, and some may become jealous of visitors. They have a life expectancy of 15-18 years.