Toad in Tennessee- ADOPTED!

My name is Toad, and I’m a 7+ year-old, 13 lb little gentleman who has already lived quite a life. I was surrendered after an unfortunate change in my owner’s circumstances, and I spent far too much time alone in a crate. My paperwork once claimed I was only 14 months old, but two veterinarians have confirmed I’m much older — a seasoned soul with a heart full of love.

I’ve had my share of health challenges, most of them due to poor genetics, but I’m thriving now thanks to good care. I live with irritable bowel disease (IBD), which was diagnosed after visits to an internal medicine specialist, an ultrasound, and an endoscopy. My IBD is controlled with a special prescription diet — Low Fat Kangaroo-MAINT Dry Dog Food — and daily medications: ¼ of a 5 mg prednisone tablet once a day and one 50 mg metronidazole tablet once a day. My specialist is still trying to wean me down, but she’s confident I’ll need my special diet for life.

I also have a jaw malformation that makes my tongue stick out all the time (it’s part of my charm!), cloudy eyes with low vision, and arthritis that makes me limp and keeps me from exercising much. Because of my arthritis, I need help getting on and off the couch, and I don’t go for long walks — sometimes I’ll need to be carried or even ride in a stroller. Weekly baths help keep my skin condition under control, and while I don’t love baths or face washing, I tolerate them because they keep me comfortable.

Despite all of this, I’m the sweetest little couch potato you’ll ever meet. I love cuddling — in your lap or with other dogs. If you’re sitting, I want to be in your lap, and I’ll be asleep on my back in two minutes flat. I’m a ladies’ man, a snuggler, and a napper extraordinaire.

I really enjoy my meals. When my meal is being prepared, I’ll jump up, whine, growl, and even try to bite at it before it’s set down. Once it’s in front of me, I guard it (not in an aggressive way) with my whole body, even if no other dogs are around. Food is just my passion!

I’m partially housebroken. I use a pad (like my foster’s older pug), and I pee outside regularly for treats. Poop is a bit of a debate between me and my foster mom — We are still working out where I should do my poops. I also sometimes eat poop, a habit I picked up from the other dogs. If they aren’t around, though, I leave it alone.

I can’t be crate trained, since I’ll just pee and poop in the crate, likely because that was my life before. Now I sleep in the kitchen with one of the resident pugs, and I’m much happier.

I don’t require a fenced yard, and I’m fine with other dogs. I’ve met kids and enjoyed their attention, though it’s unknown how I’d do living with them full-time. Cats and other small animals are also an unknown. I walk well on a leash, but only for short distances. Apartment living would suit me just fine, as long as someone is patient and willing to carry me when needed.

I love car rides in my own car seat, Nylabones, and stuffed toys. Because of my low vision, I don’t play much, but if you put a bone in front of me, I’ll happily chew it. I don’t need someone home all day, but it would be ideal!

I’ve even shown off my charm at public events — at the church’s Trunk or Treat, I was the witch’s toad, and dozens of kids came by to pet me. I was wonderful, confident, and happy to be part of the fun.

I’m a laid-back little guy who loves my naps and quiet time, and after everything I’ve been through, I’m just so thankful to finally be spoiled the way I deserve. I am excited to find my forever family, one who will embrace my quirks, manage my medical needs, and let me live out my golden years as the spoiled prince I deserve to be. In return, I’ll be the most loyal companion you could ask for—ready to fill your days with cuddles, laughter, and more love than you ever imagined.