Fidel

Fidel’s Story

Fidel / Male / 7 Years / 13lbs / Chihuahua / Slow Intro to Dogs / Good with Older Kids / Not Tested with Cats / From Mexico / Fostered in Toronto

Follow Fidel’s journey on Instagram: @fidel_the_chehuahua

Meet Fidel! Fidel’s foster describes him as a sweet and spirited little guy who loves meeting new people.

His signature greeting is a happy dance on his hind legs paired with enthusiastic kisses. He’s full of personality, enjoys playing with toys, balls, sticks, and Kongs, and occasionally bursts into brief but hilarious zoomies. When it’s time to relax, Fidel settles beautifully.

Fidel’s early history isn’t fully known, but he arrived into rescue ready to charm everyone he meets with his outgoing personality. He is a big cuddler, often falling asleep instantly on his foster’s lap. He loves grass time, peanut-butter-filled Kongs, and short strolls around the neighbourhood. When he’s had enough walking, he’ll let you know by putting on the brakes and waiting for a lift home.

Fidel is extremely friendly with his foster family, offering endless kisses and affection. He meets strangers happily and is quick to offer a friendly lick. He has also spent time with respectful teens and pre-teens and would do well in a home with children who understand and practice dog etiquette.

Fidel would be happy as the only dog in a home. A family with a backyard or nearby green space would be ideal so he can enjoy some outdoor time before heading back inside to relax. He is adaptable to a variety of settings—house, condo, or apartment—in the city, suburbs, or countryside.

Fidel is curious about other dogs but still working on his manners. He prefers some space when meeting new dogs and may be a bit overwhelming when excited. Whether he could live with another dog would depend on the other dog’s personality. He has not been tested with cats.

His energy level is moderate—he enjoys several short walks each day and occasional bursts of zoomies at home. He currently gets 4–5 walks daily, ranging from 10 minutes to an hour. He enjoys sniffing and exploring but is not a long-distance walker. Mental stimulation through Kongs, lick mats, and snuffle mats keeps him happy.

Fidel is fully house-trained—he hasn’t had an accident since his third day in foster care. He’s crate-trained, settling quickly when crated, and sleeps through the night without issue. He hasn’t yet started formal command training but is food motivated and eager to learn. Leash training will be important for his continued progress, as he likes to stop and sniff frequently.

He has been left alone for short periods (up to 30 minutes) and has done well, settling quickly in his crate. His ability to be alone for a full workday hasn’t been tested yet, so gradual build-up would be best.

Fidel is comfortable in the car and has no known health concerns. While he is not an escape artist, he is considered a flight risk at this stage, so care should be taken in open areas.

Fidel is a loving, adaptable little companion who will thrive in a home that offers him affection, playtime, and a safe place to explore. If you’re looking for a pint-sized buddy with a big heart and even bigger personality, Fidel might be your perfect match.

Prior to coming into care, Fidel tested positive for Ehrlichia which is a tick-borne infection and is not contagious. A CBC was performed to see if there is an active infection. Fidel's CBC came back indicating that there is no active infection however it is recommended that Ehrlichia positive dogs get an annual blood test to monitor and that pre-op blood work including a CBC test and platelet count be performed before any surgeries or dental extractions.

Fidel also has Supernumerary teeth (meaning too many) upper premolars on both sides. Dental xrays have been recommended to check to see if he just has too many premolars or are they baby teeth too. Surgery date pending (if done post adoption it will be covered by F+R and will not have any impact on his overall health).

If you’re interested in adopting Fidel please apply at
https://www.fetchandreleash.ca/adoption-info#adoption-form Fidel’s adoption fee is $850. To learn more about our adoption fees and the adoption process, please visit our FAQs at https://www.fetchandreleash.ca/about-us#about-faqs.