Late on Saturday, June 24, we received an emergency call from the shelter. Someone had brought in a five week old puppy they found alone and abandoned in a swampy area along the Tijuana border. Our volunteer rushed to the shelter before closing time so little Smuggler could spend the night snuggled into a clean and quiet environment.

Smuggler is really tiny, 4.5 pounds at 5 weeks, and we think he's a mix who will ultimately weigh about 30 pounds. He's very people oriented and will wiggle and waggle and roll over for tummy rubs. He comes when he's called and interacts well with the gentler dogs - he seems like a very healthy boy considering the fact that he was left to die. Smuggler had some fleas and was a bit dirty, but otherwise he was just a happy little guy.

Smuggler will be living with other puppies and adult dogs until at least 8 weeks of age and possibly longer, getting the best care and nutrition. Puppies need this interaction with other dogs to develop properly. We will accept applications for Smuggler, but his new family will have to wait until he's ready for adoption.

Puppies are a life-long commitment. They need time, training, vet care and healthy feeding to become good canine citizens. Don't even think of adopting a puppy unless you intend to invest the time and money and commitment required, and remember, you can expect to lose a few good shoes along the way!