LIFE HAS BEEN A LITTLE RUFF FOR GRUFF  This 9 year-old Shih Tzu was rescued from a busy highway by loving people who already had six dogs at home. Although his rescuers loved Gruff very much, the rest of their pack was less welcoming. Also, with so many dogs in the home, Gruff didn't receive much individual attention and he usually slept the day away. This sweet boy is waiting for a forever home where his people will make sure he gets daily interaction and activity. Despite his status as a silver senior, Gruff loves to run and play. He needs to go outside more frequently than he used to, but he knows how to use a doggy door and also tolerates a belly band at night. One of his back legs is showing its age, and going downstairs is easy but coming back up requires assistance from his people. A home without many stairs would be ideal! This adorable little guy loves to snuggle in his foster mom's lap, and he's very fond of dill pickles as a special treat. Gruff gets along with his fellow canines and with children. He is hard of hearing, so his new family shouldn't get frustrated if he doesn't respond when called. Gruff is leash trained but hates being in a crate. He is neutered, up to date on vaccinations and is heartworm negative. He is scheduled for a dental cleaning soon. Available through Tired Dog Rescue, Gulfport, MS. Fee: $175. Apply at tireddogrescue.org.

We at Tired Dog Rescue strive to find homes for dogs in need, build quality relationships with responsible owners, and preserve current dog-family homes by seeking solutions to financial, behavioral, and situational dog problems. We believe the lives of homeless, abandoned and abused dogs are just as precious as dogs that currently have a loving home. We believe that all dogs deserve a loving home despite their age, medical condition and/or disabilities. We provide whatever medical care is needed regardless of cost. All dogs are spayed/neutered, heartworm negative and current on vaccinations before being placed.