Gilbert has never given up, no matter the odds. This resilient little Chihuahua, despite his small stature, has held on to his spark throughout the years. His life has been full of challenges, yet his spirit has never wavered.
He has faced homelessness more than once. Most recently, he was abandoned at a shelter just three days after being adopted. The reason? His former owner didn’t want him anymore because Gilbert made the other dog jealous. Once again, this brave senior dog was left without a home.
But when it seemed like Gilbert might never find the love he deserved, Aimee entered his life.
Aimee’s Fate with Gilbert
Aimee Burton, a dog trainer from San Diego, California, couldn’t ignore the connection she felt when she saw Gilbert on a shelter website. She was ready to adopt him immediately, but when she applied, another family had already taken him in.
Aimee thought she had missed her chance until three days later, when she got a call. The family who adopted Gilbert had returned him, as their other dog had become jealous. Without hesitation, Aimee rushed to bring Gilbert home.
What Aimee learned about Gilbert’s past shocked her. He had been found as a stray in Lancaster, California. His story is unclear, but one thing was certain: surviving on the streets was no small feat. Weighing only 4.8 pounds, Gilbert had been through so much, and yet he was still standing tall.
“There’s coyotes and foxes and lots of wildlife. It’s kind of out there. The fact that he survived was pretty crazy,” says Aimee.
The First Few Days In His New Home
Gilbert was understandably shy at first. After everything he had been through, it was no surprise that he didn’t trust easily.
But Aimee was patient. She took her time introducing him to her other dogs and made sure he felt comfortable in his new home. Slowly but surely, Gilbert began to open up.
A few days later, he showed his true colors: his personality shining through, as he started bonding with his new siblings.
Even with a few physical challenges: his bad knee, collapsing trachea, and dental issues, Gilbert was filled with joy and excitement. His age didn’t stop him from becoming the leader of the household.
He might not have the same energy as the younger dogs, but Gilbert has earned his place among them.
At times, when Aimee takes the other dogs for walks, he stays behind on the front porch, watching them with the saddest eyes. But once they return, his energy picks right back up!
Aimee cherishes every moment with Gilbert, but one moment stands out every day: waking him up in the morning. His adorable smile and those loving eyes greet her as if he’s ready for whatever adventure lies ahead.
He may have a few quirky habits, like eating lettuce, avoiding grass, and walking only on dirt or pavement.
He even gets a little territorial at times, “gumming” his housemates, though with only three teeth, he’s harmless.
But above all, Gilbert loves his comfort. He’s happiest when he’s snuggled up next to Aimee, wrapped in a blanket.
“He loves to be in comfort. He always wants to be on a blanket or under a blanket,” says Aimee.
Once abandoned and unwanted, Gilbert has found a family that adores him. Now, he’s the happiest little Chihuahua in the world, enjoying the peace and love he always deserved.