All of our dogs are spayed/neutered, shots current (DHPP, Bordetella and Rabies where applicable), dewormed, flea and tick treated, and microchipped. * If you are interested in a dog, please first read the biography on the dog (keep scrolling down for the bio!) and then go to our website, www.dpsrescue.com for an application. Our adoption fees vary. Each biography will specifically list the adoption fee.This dog will be at the Palo Alto Pet Food Express on Saturday, April 18th from 12-3 PM unless adopted prior to the event. To be considered for adoption, please submit an application in advance at https://www.dpsrescue.com/adopt/dog-application/. Adoption fee: $800 Meet Custard — A Gentle Little Survivor Learning That the World Can Be Kind Custard is a 1–2 year old, 11-pound Maltipoo who came to DPS alongside five of her friends from a hoarding situation. When she first arrived, she was understandably shut down and unsure of the world around her. But with patience, kindness, and a steady routine in her foster home, Custard has made an incredible transformation. Watching her blossom from a timid, sleepy little dog into a curious, affectionate companion has been nothing short of heartwarming. Today, Custard is a quiet, gentle soul who is learning new skills every day and discovering that life can be safe, predictable, and even fun. She may still be building confidence, but her progress has been remarkable— and her future family will get to continue that beautiful journey with her. Daily Routine Custard starts her day early, waking around 5:15 AM when her foster dad gets up for work. She sleeps comfortably either in her pen on her dog bed or on a quilt in the second bedroom (which doubles as a cozy office space). After her foster dad leaves, Custard often uses her potty pad and then curls back up for a little more rest. A couple of hours later, when her foster mom wakes up, the day truly begins. Custard joins her for breakfast and then relaxes nearby—either in a chair in the living room or on her quilt in the office—while her person works. She enjoys a daily walk around 11:00 AM, strolling a few blocks at a comfortable pace. In the afternoon, she rests quietly while her foster mom works, and in the evening they head out for another walk after dinner. At night, she settles back into her sleeping area and sleeps peacefully. On weekends, Custard gets to experience new adventures—visiting pet-friendly stores, outdoor restaurants, and local outings. She rides beautifully in the car in her crate and seems to enjoy being included in family activities. Personality: A Beautiful Transformation When Custard first arrived, she was very quiet and withdrawn. She moved slowly, slept often, and seemed unsure how to interact with people or her surroundings. It was clear she had not had many positive experiences before. Now, her personality is beginning to shine. She runs happily through the house, gets excited when her foster mom praises her, and greets familiar people with growing confidence. She may still be a bit cautious in new situations, but each week brings noticeable progress. Custard is a gentle, independent companion who prefers to stay close to her person without needing constant attention. She enjoys curling up nearby and often seeks out cozy, elevated spots—like the top of the couch—where she can relax and observe the world. One of her sweetest traits is how expressive she is. When she accomplishes something new—like using the potty pad or asking to go outside—she beams with pride when praised. You can almost see her confidence growing in real time. Social Life Custard currently lives in a home without other pets, but she has shown signs that she could adapt well to many types of households. She is gradually becoming more comfortable meeting new people and has made encouraging progress during outings to stores and public places. She may feel nervous at first in unfamiliar environments, sometimes shaking briefly, but she warms up with gentle reassurance and patience. Each positive experience helps her build confidence. She has not yet been tested with children or cats, but her calm, gentle nature suggests she could do well in a variety of homes with thoughtful introductions. Energy Level Custard is more of a lounger than a whirlwind. She enjoys her daily walks and outings, but she is happiest relaxing in a comfortable spot near her person. She has playful moments—especially when she’s feeling happy and safe—but overall she has a calm, easygoing energy that fits well into a relaxed household. She is also quite clever. When it’s time for a walk, she steps right up onto a small stool and lifts her paws to help her foster mom put on her harness—a little routine that shows just how observant and cooperative she can be. Leash Skills Custard has made impressive progress on leash walking in a short amount of time. She walks politely beside her person without pulling and enjoys sniffing along the way. She doesn’t bark at other dogs or chase wildlife. Because she can still startle easily, her adopter will need to hold the leash securely, but her confidence continues to grow with each walk. Behavior Notes Custard is a very gentle dog with minimal problem behaviors. Chewing: None Digging: None Barking: Occasional soft, high-pitched bark when startled or uncertain She is generally quiet, calm, and respectful in the home. She is also still learning to feel fully comfortable around men. With patience, reassurance, and gentle exposure, she continues to make progress. What Makes Custard Special Custard’s journey from a hoarding situation to a loving foster home has revealed a deeply sweet, expressive little dog who simply needed time and kindness to come out of her shell. Even her groomer commented on how especially gentle and loving she is. Her transformation is ongoing, and it’s a beautiful one to witness. Favorite Thing One of the most delightful things about Custard is her playful morning routine. When her foster mom starts making the bed, Custard suddenly springs into action—zooming over, hopping onto the bed, and insisting on belly rubs before the chore can continue. She interrupts again and again, tail wagging, determined to turn a simple task into a moment of fun. It’s a small, joyful ritual that perfectly captures who Custard is becoming: a happy little dog who is learning how to enjoy life.