Her life started out like most lives of puppies sold at pet stores. At the age of two months, Tootsie, a pure breed Shi Tzu, had no difficulties charming prospective buyers. Someone paid a considerable amount of money for her in order to provide her with a home, but something went very wrong. Instead of a promising future, Tootsie had nothing to live for, spending nine years in a laundry room. By the time she finally arrived at C.A.R.E. with matted hair and soaked in bloody urine, she was emaciated and suffering from a bladder condition. C.A.R.E. took care of her medical needs, and soon Tootsie recovered from surgery to remove 11 bladder stones. A special diet followed her surgery, helping her gain the strength to turn her life around.

It was just the beginning of Tootsie's new life. Flora, who became Tootsie's new mom, visited C.A.R.E., adopted Tootsie and gave her all the love and comfort she had never experienced. Right away, on their drive to Tootsie's new home in Gainesville, Flora cradled her in her lap, and Tootsie relished the hugs, but she was also eager to observe the outside world. She pressed her little paws against the car window and stared curiously at the scenery. When she got tired, she stretched out on the passenger seat and took a nap.

At her new home, a big surprise awaited Tootsie. Jasper, Flora's other dog, greeted her, and Tootsie was thrilled. A brother to play with! She jumped all over him and picked at him. Jasper, being as happy as Tootsie at having a playmate, immediately took over the role of big brother and protector. Now, every time another dog approaches Tootsie, Jasper steps in front of her and barks at the other dog. Even though Tootsie pretends to defend herself and barks at the neighbor's cat, she gets along with her very well and enjoys sniffing at her.

In the beginning, Tootsie liked to tease her new mom, not listening to her calling her and taking off instead. She ran around and around with her mom on her heels until her mom won the chase and caught her. It didn't take Tootsie long, however, to learn the rules and to obey her mom. She even learned to give little barks when she wants food or needs to go outside. Since the effects of her medical history are slowly fading, she has to use the bathroom less and less frequently.

Tootsie's favorite pastime is sleeping. It complements her mom's interest in reading and while her mom reads, Tootsie curls up next to her and dreams about her happy new life. During the night, she shares her mom's pillow or uses her mom's hand or arm as a pillow when she sleeps. She doesn't do it quietly, though. She loudly snores away.

Tootsie's other pastimes are watching the outdoors through a glass door leading to her back yard and a nature preserve, taking walks and playing with her toys. She always sorts through all of her play things and then selects the toy she likes at that moment. Most of the time, however, she chooses the elephant she received from C.A.R.E. and flings it around. It's the biggest toy she has and despite her own small size, she likes to pick the big elephant out of her batch of toys.

Tootsie now receives great medical care and support to improve her physical condition and keep her healthy. She has already gained two pounds since she found her forever home and has become a happy little dog, adored by her mom who showers her with love and attention.