Meet Zuko! He is a 2 year old beagle lab mix that was surrendered by his owner. Zuko’s surrender is through no fault of his own—his family made the heartbreaking decision due to severe allergies and asthma in the household. He was deeply loved and deserves a future filled with stability, companionship, and understanding.
Background: Zuko is a resilient dog who has overcome an incredibly rough start to life and blossomed into a loyal, loving companion who just wants to be near his people. Zuko’s first seven months of life were spent in neglect alongside his siblings, abandoned in a home with no proper care, food, or sanitation. Because of this, he came into rescue unsure how to simply “be a dog.” When he first arrived in foster care, he was underweight at just 41 pounds and frightened by everyday sights and sounds like mirrors and the television. With patience, consistency, and love, Zuko has made tremendous progress over the last two years—learning how to relax, trust, and even enjoy play (fetch is now finally a thing!).
Personality: Zuko is an incredibly sweet, gentle soul. He is loyal, affectionate, and happiest when he’s with his humans. He would thrive in a home where someone can provide confidence, structure, and daily “jobs” like short training sessions, enrichment activities, or walks.
Being part beagle, Zuko has a classic hound howl—especially when he hears trains or planes, or sometimes just because he feels like singing. He currently uses a vibrating bark collar outdoors to help manage his enthusiasm for vocalizing.
Zuko loves other dogs and previously enjoyed being part of a pack. A home with another friendly dog would likely help his confidence. He is also cat-friendly and mostly just wants to play, even if the cats don’t always share his excitement.
Zuko has lived with children and has always been gentle. However, he still has some lingering puppy energy and imperfect spatial awareness, so he would do best with kids who can hold their ground during playtime.
Training: Zuko knows most of the basics and has lived in home. He would benefit greatly from routine, guidance, and positive reinforcement. He needs an adopter willing to continue building his confidence and helping him feel secure in the world.
Medical Disclosure
Zuko has food allergies and requires a strict prescription diet. He does best on Hill’s Science Diet Hydrolyzed (Z/D) kibble. He must not have human food, as it will cause vomiting and skin irritation.
Updates
Zuko’s first two days with me have been a real pleasure. Considering the rough start he had, Zuko has really developed into a great dog.
He really enjoys being around my dog and he often looks to her for cues. Zuko also likes to entertain himself by tossing toys in the air and tryin to catch them. It’s really funny to watch. He’s fine with my cats and thinks they smell interesting. He is super friendly and truly loves people and attention.
Training-wise, Zuko has had zero accidents and he sleeps in my room all night without a peep. I’ve run errands a few times since I’ve had him and he’s not gotten into anything he shouldn’t have. I would say he doesn’t need to be crated. He walks quite nicely on a leash with no tugging.
He did have some anxiety issues but is on medication that keeps it well under control. In fact, he might even be growing out of it as he gains confidence because he’s generally pretty calm. Zuko does have the energy outbursts of a youngster but he settles nicely. He’s doing well with his diet. The special food he eats is working great with no tummy upsets or itching.
Zuko would definitely make a great addition to any family. Come soon and see for yourself!
