gemma

Meet Gemma.

Part couch potato, part tiny queen, part weather critic.

Gemma is a 9-year-old Rat Terrier mix with a soft heart, a love of routine, and extremely strong opinions about wet grass. If the lawn is damp, she will do everything in her power to avoid touching it — a level of dramatic commitment that her foster both respects and fears.

At home, Gemma is affectionate, loyal, and happiest curled up beside her people enjoying a quiet day indoors. She loves snacks, cuddles, calm environments, and getting your full attention. Her foster says she has the sweetest little whine when she wants more affection, which is often because Gemma firmly believes cuddling is a full-time job.

She’s crate trained, low energy, walks nicely on leash, and gets along well with calm dogs and cats. Excitable dogs who invade her personal space, however, are not her thing. Gemma prefers a peaceful home where everyone respects boundaries — especially during mealtime. She does guard her food and needs a family who will simply feed her separately and leave her alone while she eats. With that easy management in place, Gemma settles beautifully into home life.

She’s also not a fan of being picked up, so her ideal adopter will understand that love sometimes means meeting a dog where they’re comfortable and letting trust build naturally. Because of this, Gemma is looking for an adult-only home without children where she can feel safe, understood, and relaxed.

Gemma is looking for a quiet, stable home with soft places to nap, predictable routines, and people who appreciate a slightly opinionated little dog with a huge capacity for love.

We just welcomed 9 year 13 lb female rat terrier mix Gemma.
Fostered in Woodbridge, VA
Please apply at mirishaven.org