Meet Paleta: A survivor with so much love to give
Feb 20, 2025
Paleta, a resilient pup rescued from a shelter in Dominica, has found her second chance in Chicago, blossoming into a playful and loving companion. With a heart full of loyalty and a little bit of shyness, she’s ready to bring endless affection to a patient, loving home.
Paleta is one of PAWS Chicago’s longer-term residents with a journey full of courage and hope. She was rescued from a shelter in Dominica, a Caribbean island nation, in December 2023. This shelter was housing over 200 animals, but it was forced to shut down, leaving its residents facing the tragic choices of either being euthanized or returned to the harsh streets they had previously been rescued from.
Thankfully, Paleta found a second chance at a better life in Chicago, where she has been thriving in the loving care of her foster mom, Rachel Ruckstuhl. Rachel describes Paleta as a sweet dog with a mix of puppy energy and a heart full of attachment. "She's curious and nervous but very attached to her foster mom. She follows me around like velcro, always wanting pets and snuggles," says Rachel.
Though Paleta may be a little shy and cautious, she has blossomed into a playful, smart, and affectionate companion. "She loves getting pets on her head, ears, and chest and will ask for snuggles at least five times a day," Rachel shares. Paleta’s favorite activities include chewing on her bone at night, chasing her foster sister Beignet outside, and engaging in playful wrestling. "She's really smart when she’s not scared," Rachel adds. Paleta has already learned commands like "sit," "wait," "shake," and "touch," proving that she’s a fast learner when she feels safe.
Despite her gentle demeanor, Paleta does have a few quirks that make her all the more endearing. "She loves when you talk to her because she feels part of the conversation. She may even talk back! She's so cute in that she can make so many different types of noises - we really do think she's trying to talk!” says Rachel. She sleeps in the cutest positions - upside down, in a ball, sideways, and so many variations it's fun to watch. Paleta also loves to pick up her food and move it to a comfier spot to eat – who can blame her for wanting to find the best spot for mealtime?
Paleta’s ideal home would be with a woman or a family that’s willing to invest the time to help her build confidence at her own pace. A home with a fenced-in yard would be ideal, as she loves to run around and play outside. "She’ll make a great addition to any home that is patient and dedicated to helping her thrive," Rachel notes.
As Paleta continues to grow in her foster home, she’s become a loving, loyal companion with so much to give. And, according to Rachel, "She'll greet you like you're the greatest person in the world every time you come home – no matter if it's been 4 minutes or 4 hours."
If you’re looking for a dog who will shower you with love, loyalty, and endless companionship, Paleta may be the perfect fit for your home. She’s a survivor, a sweetheart, and a beautiful soul who’s ready to share all the love she has. As Rachel says, "She’s going to love you so much."