Gilbert has been a fighter through and through!
Though small in size, this proud Chihuahua has never let his sparkle fade—and that enduring spirit has likely kept him going strong all these years.
Gilbert faced homelessness more than once. The last time, he was surrendered to a shelter just three days after being adopted. His previous owner gave him up, claiming he made their other dog jealous. Once again, Gilbert lost his home.
But just when it seemed this senior gentleman might never experience the warmth of a family again, Aimee came into his life!
Gilbert’s Been A Fighter His Entire Life
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Aimee Burton, a dog trainer from San Diego, California, was smitten with Gilbert the moment she saw his profile on a shelter website. However, when she applied to adopt him, she discovered he had already been taken in by another family.
Disappointed, Aimee thought that was the end of the story—until she received a call three days later. The family who had adopted Gilbert decided to return him, claiming their other dog was jealous of him.
Without hesitation, Aimee jumped at the chance and rushed to the shelter to bring this incredible little guy home.
Source: @nopain2train
Aimee later discovered that Gilbert was originally found as a stray in Lancaster, California. To this day, much of his past remains a mystery, but it’s nothing short of a miracle that he managed to survive life on the streets. Weighing just 4.8 pounds, Gilbert’s small size didn’t stop him from being a true fighter throughout his life.
“There’s coyotes, foxes, and all kinds of wildlife out there. It’s pretty remote. The fact that he survived is incredible,” Aimee shares.
From Being Unwanted To A Forever Home
Source: @nopain2train
During his first few days with Aimee, Gilbert was reserved and timid. After everything he’d been through, his lack of trust was completely understandable. But Aimee was patient and compassionate.
She gradually introduced him to her other dogs and ensured he had all the comfort and security he needed. Within a few days, Gilbert began to come out of his shell, warming up to his new family and starting to socialize with his canine siblings. For the first time in his new home, his true personality began to shine!
Source: @nopain2train
Despite his age, Gilbert radiates happiness and excitement, finally living the life he’s always deserved. While he battles a bad knee, a collapsing trachea, and dental issues, none of that stops him from being the man of the house!
Every dog in the pack seems to gravitate toward Gilbert. Even though he doesn’t have the energy of his younger siblings, he remains a proud and cherished member of the family.
Occasionally, when Aimee takes the other dogs out for a walk, Gilbert stands on the front porch, giving them the most heart-wrenching sad eyes. But as soon as they return, he’s back to his cheerful, perky self, ready to greet them with enthusiasm!
Aimee cherishes every single thing about Gilbert, but her favorite part of the day is waking him up.
Each morning, Gilbert brightens her day with his adorable smile and the sweetest pair of eyes, always looking at her as if he’s ready to embark on the greatest adventure.
His quirky habits only make him even more special. Gilbert loves munching on lettuce, avoids walking on grass, and sticks strictly to dirt and pavement for his strolls. These little traits make him uniquely Gilbert, and Aimee wouldn’t have it any other way!
Sometimes, Gilbert gets a bit territorial and playfully “gums” his housemates. It’s absolutely hilarious, considering he only has three teeth and couldn’t hurt anyone even if he tried. This funny little quirk just adds to his charm and keeps everyone in the house entertained!
Source: @nopain2train
At the end of the day, what Gilbert cherishes most is comfort. He loves snuggling up next to Aimee, simply enjoying her presence and the warmth of being close to her.
“He’s all about comfort. He always wants to be on a blanket or tucked under one,” Aimee shares with a smile.
Once an unwanted dog with no place to call home, Gilbert is now living his best life as the happiest Chihuahua in the world!