Hello, meet Cartman! Let me start off by saying he is NOT a part of our breeding program. After you read this story you will know why.
My husband and I have been together for ten years. We decided we wanted to have a family of our own and tried to have a baby. With great joy we became pregnant, to only lose our babies. During this time of grief is when Cartman came into my life. This Shih Tzu helped me through so much. I had NO IDEA what an impact this beautiful little Shih Tzu would make in my life.
Cartman is the very first Shih Tzu I have ever owned. I took him to our local vet to have him neutered. That same day I found out his kidneys were not functioning normally. Our vet did not do the procedure and sent him home with antibiotics to take. Ten days later we went for more blood work, no change. Next step was an ultrasound, then we found out the devastating news. At 6 months of age Cartman had a genetic kidney disease. We took him out of state to a specialist, hoping there was something we could do or maybe even get a different diagnoses. This doctor did some testing and then told us he was sorry, nothing could be done. He stated that Cartman most likely would not see his first birthday, he would pass before then. Cartman is now almost 3 years old. So as you can see, he is a little miracle boy. God sent me an angel when I really needed one. So this is how I fell in love with the breed.
When adopting a Shih Tzu, please do your homework. Ask questions, ask for pictures, most important ask for references and follow up on them. I wouldn't trade Cartman for anything but if I had done this in the beginning maybe I could have prevented falling in love with a Shih Tzu that is sick. It is not only sad for the owner, but its also sad for the puppy. I have learned a huge lesson! That is why I have done research, asked questions, and have been VERY PICKY when I decided to start a breeding program. Good breeders have nothing to hide!! They will spend time talking with you, and provide the information you need to ensure you are getting a healthy puppy. Good breeders will answer questions and will want their babies to go to a wonderful home, not just any home. NEVER EVER SEND MONEY to anyone you haven't spoke with and got information from. To this day, the person I got Cartman from is still breeding the same parents. Even knowing what he was diagnosed with. Knowing that yes it is genetic and yes it will show up again. I can not imagine how many other people who are being heartbroken right now because they have bought a puppy with this disease. Owning a Shih Tzu is a wonderful experience. You can not ask for a more loving, loyal, and faithful friend. Just make sure your new family member is healthy and happy before you commit yourself.
Again, CARTMAN IS NOT A PART OF OUR BREEDING PROGRAM. He is though the ruler of the house and takes care of me along with the rest of our four legged family! So this is how Little Miracles came about and got its name, our miracle boy Cartman.