Maltese/Shih Tzu
Black with White
Each organization sets the adoption fee for their animals. Adoption fees help cover the cost of this animal’s care as well as allowing the organization to help more animals.
Positive reinforcement training
Interactive toys and mental enrichment
Continued socialization with people and other dogs
A consistent daily routine
A safe indoor home where he's included as part of the family
Lots of love, patience, and lifelong commitment
Messi has been given a wonderful second chance, and now he's looking for a family that's ready to laugh, play, and create a lifetime of memories together.
Training, Adjustment & What to Expect
Like all puppies, Messi is still learning about the world around him. His new family should expect normal puppy behaviors, including chewing, teething, playful zoomies, and lots of curiosity as he explores his surroundings.
Messi is eager to learn and will flourish with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Starting training early will help him develop into a confident, well-mannered adult dog.
Please remember the 3-3-3 Rule:
3 Days to decompress and begin feeling safe
3 Weeks to learn your household routine
3 Months to fully settle into family life
Messi will benefit from:
Positive reinforcement training
House-training and consistent routines
Daily exercise and supervised play
Continued socialization with people, dogs, and new environments
Mental stimulation through enrichment toys and puzzle games
Plenty of patience, encouragement, and affection
With loving guidance and structure, Messi will grow into a loyal, confident companion who will bring joy to his family for years to come.
Owner Responsibilities & Veterinary Care
Bringing home a puppy is a lifelong commitment that includes training, veterinary care, exercise, and companionship.
As part of responsible pet ownership, Messi will need:
Completion of his puppy vaccination schedule and routine wellness examinations
Neutering when age-appropriate, following his veterinarian's recommendation
Monthly flea, tick, heartworm, and parasite prevention
A nutritious diet that supports healthy growth and development
Daily physical exercise appropriate for his age
Continued obedience training and socialization
A safe, loving indoor home where he is treated as a cherished member of the family
Because Messi is still growing, strenuous repetitive exercise and excessive jumping should be limited until his joints have fully developed. We recommend scheduling a wellness examination with your veterinarian shortly after adoption to establish care and ensure he continues to thrive.
Adoption Information
If you are interested in adopting Messi, please complete an adoption application by visiting:
Thank you for considering adoption through Ozzie and Friends Rescue, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit dedicated to giving dogs a second chance at a loving home. Every application is carefully reviewed to help ensure the best possible match between each dog and their future family.
Although we are based in Los Angeles, California, we proudly coordinate safe and reliable transportation for approved adopters throughout the United States, helping deserving dogs like Messi find loving homes no matter where they live.
Messi is ready to trade his past for a future filled with adventure, belly rubs, and a family who will love his playful spirit every single day. ❤️
These pets share similar characteristics and might be a great match for you.
Check out other wonderful pets available from the same organization.