Emilio's Web Page

Bichon Frise / Mixed (long coat) : : Male (neutered) : : Senior : : Medium

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Please Note: This animal is listed as a courtesy to another organization. Please be sure to contact the foster/caretaker for more information about him.

About Emilio
Status: Available for Adoption (adoption info) Species: Dog General Color: White Current Size: 20 Pounds Potential Size: 20 Pounds Current Age: 11 Years 11 Months (best estimate)	Housetrained: No Exercise Needs: Low Grooming Needs: High Shedding Amount: None

Name: Emilio
Breed: Bichon Frise
Age: Approximately 12 years
Sex: Neutered Male
Location: Durham, NC
Adoption Contact: Rainbow Bridge Hospice Rescue – info@rainbowbridgerescue.org
Apply to Adopt: https://rainbowbridgerescue.org/applications/

Meet Emilio – A Gentle, Loyal Soul Searching for Peace

Emilio is a sweet, affectionate, and service dog-trained 12-year-old Bichon Frise who’s looking for a peaceful, loving home to live out his golden years.

This beautiful boy was the devoted service dog to his blind owner for over a decade, providing calm companionship and constant love. After his beloved person passed away in 2024, Emilio moved in with family, but due to worsening health issues, they can no longer care for him. He is now being fostered through Rainbow Bridge Hospice Rescue and is ready to find his next chapter.

Sensitive & Anxious
Emilio is grieving. He’s a deeply bonded dog who has experienced great loss, and it shows in his sad, anxious demeanor. He longs to be close to his person and struggles with being alone, often crying or barking when left behind. A calm home where someone is around most of the time would be best.

House Training Needs
While Emilio is mostly house-trained, he still has occasional accidents—especially when stressed or left alone for too long. A home with a doggy door and a consistent potty routine would be ideal. He is used to potty pads and a dog door setup.

Ideal Home:

Quiet and predictable
Someone home most of the time
A fenced yard and doggy door would help reduce his anxiety and support house training
Best as an only dog, or with one equally calm and non-disruptive companion
Children are fine if they are respectful and gentle

Health & Veterinary Care:

Recently had a full senior panel — healthy overall, no signs of Cushing’s
Up to date on all vaccinations (Rabies, DHPP, Bordetella)
Monthly heartworm and flea/tick prevention
Recently had dental work and benign cyst removal
Eats Hill’s Science Diet Senior 11+ Small Breed
Takes Trazodone or Gabapentin for grooming, travel, or anxiety

Extras:

Travels safely in the car with a seatbelt harness
Professionally groomed regularly — tolerates well with light sedation
Located in Durham, NC and available for local or regional adoption

Emilio is looking for a soft place to land, a lap to snuggle into, and a heart big enough to understand his grief and help him heal. If you believe in second chances and the unmatched love of a senior dog, Emilio is waiting to meet you.

Interested in adopting Emilio? Adoption Fee $250
Please complete an application at: https://rainbowbridgerescue.org/applications/