Oliver is a sweet and sensitive 3-year-old Maltese mix who’s ready to find his people. Rescued from an overcrowded Las Vegas shelter, Oliver’s early life is a bit of a mystery, but we sure hope that his future looks brighter.
Oliver had his first seizure just as we arrived to pick him up from the shelter. When he was turned in, no history was provided, so it was just as much of a surprise to the shelter as it was to us. While picking him up, we also discovered that he has a small left eye with limited vision, something we hadn’t known until that very moment. Between the seizure and his eye deformity, shelter staff gently offered us the option to leave him behind or pick a different dog. But we knew right then that Oliver needed rescuing more than ever. With his health challenges and unique appearance, there was a real chance he might be overlooked. We couldn’t let that happen, as we felt he deserved a chance at turning his luck around.
A second seizure shortly after confirmed a diagnosis of epilepsy, which is not uncommon in Maltese dogs. Thankfully, his seizures appear to be well-managed with twice-daily medication, and Oliver has been seizure-free for two months. His smaller eye does not appear to cause him any trouble and seems to be an issue he was born with. With both impaired vision and epilepsy, Oliver is considered a special needs dog, but with consistent care and a little extra love, he’s already proving that he can live a happy, full, and joyful life. With regular vet checkups and a stable routine, he has every chance to thrive.
Oliver is around 15 pounds, loves being held, and soaks up attention. He may be a little shy at first, but once he trusts you, he’ll happily stick by your side all day. He’s still learning how to play with toys and figuring out the fun in it, but he’s getting there. He gets along well with other dogs and is starting to learn how to play with them too. Thanks to his passive and gentle nature, Oliver fits in easily with all kinds of dogs, and we believe he would do well with respectful children and possibly even cats. He absolutely loves people and has shown zero signs of aggression toward other animals or people. He rarely barks and is so quiet and easygoing that we sometimes have to look around just to see where he’s quietly curled up.
Since being rescued, Oliver has learned quite a few things. He’s crate trained, dog-door savvy, and working on leash walking, although he can be a bit nervous in unfamiliar environments. He also rides great in the car and makes a calm, easygoing travel buddy. While he is a smart dog, he is still a work in progress and needs an understanding family that will help him grow. Oliver can be a bit of a picky eater, but once he settles into a routine he eats a bit better. He occasionally marks indoors, so we have been using belly bands and vibration to deter him from peeing in the house. Grooming isn’t his favorite activity, but he tolerates it and will need regular upkeep.
Oliver clearly enjoys the outdoors and may have spent some time living outside before rescue. These days, he’s all about sunbathing, slow strolls, and sniffaries. You’ll often see him outside, walking around with the other dogs and watching the birds in the yard. He leads a very chill life and has an incredibly even-tempered, relaxed personality. He shows no signs of anxiety and just seems genuinely relieved to finally have routine and consistency.
Oliver would thrive in a stable home with someone who can stay consistent with his medication and offer him patience and love as he continues to grow in confidence. We understand that taking care of a special needs dog may sound daunting at first, but it can also be one of the most rewarding experiences for the right family. Giving a dog like Oliver just a few extra minutes of care each day is a small effort that quickly becomes second nature, and the bond you build in return is truly unmatched. Current medication runs about $20 a month, making it an affordable way to keep Oliver happy, healthy, and living his best life.
If you’re looking for a mellow, affectionate companion who wants nothing more than a little love, Oliver may be the perfect match for you. He’s the kind of dog who will quietly curl up next to you, follow you around the house with calm devotion, and be happiest just being near his person. Oliver may have had a rough start, but he’s ready to settle into the simple joys of home life with someone who will love him for who he is. He has been neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped, and now that his health has stabilized, he’s all set and ready to find his forever home.
