🌟 Meet Lester, affectionately known as "Dexter the Arrester" because, believe it or not, he has an extraordinary talent for grabbing hold of hearts and never letting go! Weighing in at 17 pounds, this charming 3-year-old tri-colored Shih Tzu has had quite a journey. After losing his beloved dad, Lester found himself in a challenging situation with a family unable to care for him due to medical issues. A heartfelt rescue mission followed: relatives traveled from Dallas to San Francisco, drove to see him in Sacramento, and then brought him all the way to L.A. to join us. THAT, my friends, is what love looks like! ❤️ Now that he’s in our care, it’s time to shower this little bundle of joy with the attention he deserves. After a brief battle with double ear and eye infections, Lester is on the mend and thriving! While his eyes require some ongoing medication for a touch of dry eye, he's adjusting well — sometimes it can be a bit of a comedy trying to treat his ears, but he soon gets used to it. Lester is a playful pup who adores fetching balls and chasing after anything that rolls! 🏐 If you see him making those adorable gremlin noises, trust me, he’s simply demanding attention (especially when dinnertime rolls around). He loves being close to you, whether it’s at your feet, snuggled up on your lap, or tucked beside you in bed. This pooch is truly a champion snuggler! 🤗 Now, let’s talk about another side of Lester. He’s not just a cuddle bug; he’ll also serve as your personal alarm system. With a keen instinct to protect, this little guy will bark and stand guard whenever he senses a commotion, ensuring you feel safe! However, he does have some resource guarding tendencies with his food and toys. I mean, who likes sharing their meal, right?! 🍽️ He’ll thrive in a nurturing environment with savvy humans who understand the Shih Tzu spirit and can offer him the time, training, and love he needs to flourish. Don’t forget, reminding him who’s boss will go a long way (and keep the peace at mealtime)! The perfect home for Lester would be with or without another dog, ideally with a family (no kids, please) who work remotely and can devote plenty of love and attention to him. While he was reported to be potty trained, we can’t make guarantees — sometimes even the best of us need a reminder! 🐾 As he grows more comfortable, he might become protective over his treats and playthings, so understanding boundaries will be crucial. If you're in search of a best friend who comes with a whole lot of personality and love to give, look no further! Apply to adopt Lester through the Buddy App, and let's make magic happen! ✨