Adoption Fee: $590
If you would like to apply to adopt please
download the application form.
If you would like to know more or have problems using a Microsoft Word document please email us.
NB: We do not rehome interstate or to applicants under 25. It is our policy not to rehome dogs in the Sunraysia area. As rescue groups have transported thousands of homeless dogs from Mildura and Sunraysia pounds over the last decade, we do not intend to send any back there.
Breed: Male toy poodle cross
DOB: 21/07/2012
Weight: 3.6 kgs
Location: West St Kilda
About Zeus
Meet Zeus, a young‑at‑heart toy poodle cross who loves long walks along the beach, sitting with his humans and trying new things like learning tricks. Once he feels safe, Zeus is affectionate, people‑focused and enjoys being included in everyday life. He forms strong bonds with those he trusts and loves being close to his people.
Zeus does have a history of trauma, which shows through anxiety and some resource guarding behaviours, as well as fear of certain objects such as brooms. When he encounters something that triggers him, he can become defensive and may snap if he feels threatened. Zeus has learned to growl as a way of communicating that he is uncomfortable or needs space, and these warning signs should always be respected.
He is learning how to calm himself down and has shown that he is very quick to adapt to new training when it is implemented consistently (for example, using the same verbal commands paired with the same hand gestures). While Zeus has made good progress, there remains a risk of his reacting if his boundaries are pushed or if he believes his belongings are being taken.
Zeus is very much a solo dog and is protective of his humans. This can be seen through behaviours such as barking at other dogs while out on walks and circling around his people to check that they are still nearby.
Zeus enjoys playing with people he trusts, including tug‑of‑war, fetch and chase games. He is also curious and would benefit from mental enrichment such as agility or similar activities to keep his brain engaged.
He is very food oriented, and gentle when taking treats, and this makes teaching him tricks easy and enjoyable. He already responds to several commands and will sit and shake hands based on just a hand signal.
The Home Zeus Is Looking For
Zeus is looking for an experienced and patient adopter who can provide a calm, structured environment where he can feel safe. A home with a secure yard where he can explore at his own pace would be ideal.
He needs someone who understands anxiety and trauma‑based behaviours, can recognise his triggers, and is willing to manage them thoughtfully while continuing his training and confidence‑building. Consistency, routine and clear communication are key to helping Zeus feel secure.
We recommend a home without small children or other pets, as Zeus needs a calm and predictable environment. He benefits from everyone using the same training signals and respecting his boundaries. Zeus also enjoys having beds in the main rooms where people spend time, so he can relax near his humans while still having his own safe space.
A Note From His Foster Home
We have fostered Zeus for some time and have seen how loving and devoted he can be. He wants to be close to his people, loves sitting on laps, and enjoys being included in daily activities. He can attend cafes or short outings, although adopters need to be aware that he may bark at cars or other dogs. With gentle management, he enjoys these experiences. Zeus is also very house‑proud and will knock at the door when he needs to go outside.
With the right adopter — someone patient, calm and committed — Zeus has the potential to continue growing into a settled, affectionate companion who feels safe and supported in his world.
If you’re ready to open your heart and home to Zeus, please contact us to discuss further. Together, we can help Zeus keep building confidence and moving forward. Your love and patience will make a truly life‑changing difference in his life.
Let’s give Zeus the second chance he deserves
Microchip Number: 982000190979236
Source Number: RE120211
Medical Notes: Grade 3 heart murmur. Ears and dermatitis currently being treated. Mild patella laxity bilaterally with occasional limp.
Currently on anti-anxiety meds.
All our dogs are desexed, C5 vaccinated with intranasal, microchipped, wormed and flea treated. All necessary vet work such as dentals, surgery, eye treatment is also carried out. We are no longer heartworm testing as we have not had one positive test since we began in 2006. If a dog comes to us on heartworm treatment this is continued.












