Clarence came to me on Christmas Eve, so I named him for the Angel in "It’s a Wonderful Life" who also came on Christmas Eve. I had seen him several weeks before where he was living in a semi-permanent foster home. I was visiting and I saw him sitting in a crate and asked to hear his story. He is an older fella, we think somewhere between 12 and 15 years. From what has been pieced together about this poor animal’s life, he has been from home to home (at least 6!). He has been abused and neglected, he has been forced to live in a basement and then outside with an abandoned car for shelter. Although he weighs about 10 pounds now, he weighed about 4 when his foster mom found him. He was sick and in terrible condition. Once he was in his foster home, no one wanted to adopt him because they said that he couldn’t be housebroken. After all this, who could blame him if he hated all people, yet he is the most loving little guy around! Clarence won my heart in about 10 seconds and I wanted him to come live with me!

I had decided to overlook the housebreaking problem—he is old and has had a miserable existence. I did not want to stress him further. His foster mom had some "piddle pants" made for him and I thought that this would work just fine. I used them for several days and then decided to see how he would do without them…he was walking on the leash with my other little dogs without a problem and was eliminating outside. He had one or two "accidents" after that—he was "male marking". I caught him in the act, said "no" and then took him out and we have had no further problems! I think the secret is making sure he gets out often.

As for his breed (s), the initial thought was that he is a terrier-chi cross. But the more I am with him the more convinced I am that he is a powder puff Chinese Crested. I have known quite a few of these and he has the body type, coat and personality of these wonderful little critters! Regardless of breed, he is a pleasant, clean, loving animal.

Clarence now goes for rides, sleeps in the bed and curls up on the couch (his favorite place!). He is my little shadow, following me everywhere I go! He is such a great dog—I am lucky to have him!  I would say that if anyone is considering taking in an older rescue dog, please do!! They are so appreciative of their home, more laid back than pups and they will return your love ten-fold!

For more information about Chinese Cresteds: