10/23/2026
RESCUE-ONLY DEADLINE BY CLOSE OF BUSINESS Wednesday October 28th
Must be pulled by a partnered rescue
Name: Onyx
Animal ID: A910110
Age: 3 years
Weight: 14.4lbs
Meet Onyx, an adorable 3-year-old Dachshund mix who is on the hunt for his ultimate life partner! With his charming demeanor and a brisk, determined little walk that will make you smile, this small guy is completely irresistible. On leash, Onyx is a delight to walk with and loves exploring at your side.
Because Onyx can be a bit shy, nervous, and flighty when meeting new people or entering new environments, he needs an adopter who understands the importance of going slow. The key to winning his trust is letting him take the lead—give him space to settle in, come to you, and initiate affection on his own terms. Once he feels safe, his loyal, loving personality really shines through.
Onyx is looking for a structured, committed home ready to manage resource guarding around his human. He will thrive with clear boundaries, a predictable routine, and a management plan for when guests visit. If you are ready to offer a patient, supportive environment to a sweet little guy who just wants to bond deeply with his person, come meet Onyx today!
Adoption Process:
All interested parties must meet the dog at PACC before their deadline. Some dogs may also require an introduction to any dogs they may potentially live with. Once introductions are complete and if the IP has decided this dog may be a good fit, the process is as follows:
Interested parties:
Must visit PACC before the COB WEDNESDAY 28TH deadline to meet with an adoption counselor who will go over notes and introduce you to the dog.
Are encouraged to reach out to a rescue group ASAP (even before coming to PACC), to start the rescue approval process. Please have the rescue contact PACC at [email protected] if approved to pull.
If an IP has not already contacted a rescue, PACC will notify all partnered rescue groups of an interested party and request their assistance. Once you have come to PACC to meet with the dog and determined that you’d like to move forward, your information will be sent to partnered rescue groups. If a rescue group is interested and feels they may be able to pull, they will then reach out to IPs.
Collaboration with Rescue Groups:
Rescue groups are encouraged to reach out to PACC immediately if they will pull this animal into their rescue (and if there are requirements: Interested adoptive party, spay/neuter if not already completed, etc.)
Rescue groups are encouraged to start their adoption process with any interested parties who have contacted them directly and email PACC at [email protected].
Please note that it is ultimately up to the rescue group's discretion to decide whether to proceed with adoption.
HOME MANAGEMENT PLAN:
Bite History:
• Incident Details: 2 bites 1 moderate/1minor previous owner’s family was coming to sit on couch next to her when Onyx bit his hand, owner went to pick him up to remove him when he bit her on the chin.
Resource Guards Attention From People:
• Onyx may guard attention or affection from certain people, particularly those they are bonded to.
• Muzzle Training: Muzzle training is strongly recommended for all new introductions to ensure safety and reduce stress for both Onyx and others.
• Professional Support: Establish clear boundaries early and seek guidance from a qualified trainer to help manage and modify guarding behavior.
• Management at Home: Create a calm, designated space where they can relax when guests arrive or when attention is divided. Avoid scolding or punishing guarding behaviors - focus on redirection and rewarding calm, appropriate responses.
• Recognize Warning Signals: Watch for signs that they are becoming uncomfortable, such as stiffening, growling, or placing themselves between people. These behaviors should be respected by giving space and calmly redirecting their focus.
Flight Risk
• Experienced Handler Required: Onyx should go home with a confident, experienced handler who can recognize and manage signs of fear or startle response.
• Dragline Use: Keep a dragline attached for a minimum of two weeks. This allows safe, low-stress handling if they become difficult to approach.
• Leash Safety: Always maintain a secure grip on the leash when outdoors until they are fully settled. Avoid using retractable leashes.
• Supervision: Never leave them unsupervised outdoors, even in a fenced yard, as fearful dogs can climb, dig, or squeeze through small gaps when startled.
• Equipment Requirement: They must go home with a properly fitted martingale collar and a standard flat clip leash to help prevent slipping out during walks.
• Longline Use: When spending time outdoors in an enclosed yard, use a longline to give them extra space to explore while keeping them safe and under control. Do NOT use tie outs, leash should be held and maintained by the handler at all times. Should NOT be used in unenclosed or public spaces.
Undersocialized OR Handling Issues:
• Decompression Period - Allow Onyx a minimum of 2 weeks to settle. They must be allowed to go at their own pace. Allow them to approach you for attention and pets. DO NOT force interactions.
• No Forced Handling - Avoid all handling that Onyx cannot consent to. This includes:
• Petting them while they are sleeping
• Grabbing their collar or body.
• Picking them up.
• Forcing grooming (bathing, clipping nails, cleaning ears) during the decompression period. Use positive reinforcements and conditioning only.
• Positive Reinforcement: Use high-value treats and praise to reward all desired behaviors.
• Recognize Warning Signals - the adopter/foster must be intensely aware of Onyx’s body language signals, which indicate stress and potential snap or bite:
• Lifting of the lips/showing teeth
• Low growls
• Stiffening of the body (freezing)
These warnings must be respected immediately by creating distance and disengaging.
• Confident Dog Recommended: They may benefit from living with a calm, confident dog who can model appropriate behavior and help build trust in new environments.
Shy/Nervous:
• Decompression Period: Allow Onyx ample time and space to settle into their new environment. Pushing interactions too soon can increase stress and delay progress.
• No Forced Handling: Avoid handling that Onyx does not initiate or consent to. Let them approach on their own terms. Use high value treats, calm praise, and gentle encouragement to build trust.
• Building Affection: They may take time to show affection or seek attention. Every dog adjusts at their own pace - patience and consistency are key to helping them feel secure.
• Confident Dog Recommended: They may benefit from living with a calm, confident dog who can model appropriate behavior and help build trust in new environments.
