**Walter is currently in foster care, if you're interested in meeting him, please fill out an adoption questionnaire on our website https://everettwa.gov/161/Adopt-a-Pet and we will be in touch to schedule an appointment. Meet Walter — Small Boy, BIG Feelings Walter is a 6-year-old terrier with a heart as big as his ears and a story that’s still being written. He arrived at the shelter as a stray, unsure of the world and carrying a few medical issues that were quickly addressed. But emotionally, Walter was overwhelmed. The world felt too big, too loud, and too unpredictable for a little dog who had lost his sense of safety. He became anxious and defensive — not because he was "bad," but because he didn’t know how to trust. Everything changed when Walter entered his foster home. With patience, structure, and a training program designed to rebuild his confidence, Walter began to rediscover himself. He learned that people can be kind, that routines feel good, and that he doesn’t have to handle the world all on his own. Underneath the fear, there was always a sweet, funny, spirited little dog waiting to come out. What Walter Needs Walter is looking for adopters who understand that he’s a dog — not a baby, not a toy — and who will respect his boundaries while helping him continue to grow. He’ll need to stay on his training program for at least another month as he transitions into his new home. Structure helps him feel safe, and he thrives when the humans around him are calm, consistent, and confident. He’s an active little guy, and his daily long, structured walks are essential. They help him stay centered, comfortable, and ready to take on the world with his tiny terrier swagger. Home Life with Walter Walter’s foster family believes he is house trained, and he is now fully crate trained. He actually loves his crate — a large, cozy setup with water and toys — and uses it as his personal safe space to nap, decompress, and reset. He also enjoys curling up in his little bed to soak up attention and affection. Walter gets along with other dogs, but he does best with calm, confident canine companions. Anxious or reactive dogs make him uneasy, so he’ll need a steady dog friend if he’s going to have one at home. Adoption Details Walter is available through a 30-day foster-to-adopt program, which includes a couple of check-ins from his foster person to help ensure he continues progressing and doesn’t slip back into old habits. His foster is committed to setting him — and his future family — up for success.