Details for A876756

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Animal information

A876756

Located At: Pima Animal Care Center - Tucson
Description: My name is Gatsby*.
I am a neutered male, black and white Pit Bull Terrier mix.

Weight: I weigh approximately 65.00 lbs.
Age: The shelter staff think I am about 5 years old.
More Info: I have been at the shelter since Jul 19, 2025 and am ready to go home today!
I am in Kennel D001.
If you are interested in adopting this pet, visit us during regular business hours. Please email pacc.adopt@pima.gov for any questions regarding the adoption process.
If you believe this is your lost pet, come down during regular business hours to reclaim or email pacclostandfound@pima.gov with any questions.

Bio: EMERGENCY PLACEMENT DEADLINE
CLOSE OF BUSINESS TUESDAY 06/16/26
AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION ONLY THROUGH PACC


Name: Gatsby
Animal ID: A876756
Age: 5 years
Weight: 65lbs
Web Link: 24petconnect.com/PimaAdoptablePets/Details/PIMA/A876756
About: If you are looking for a true companion, look no further than Gatsby. Having first arrived at the shelter in July of 2025, Gatsby is currently one of our longest stays. Sadly, the prolonged time in a kennel environment is starting to take a toll on him, and he is experiencing shelter decline. This wonderful boy desperately needs to get out of the stressful kennel environment and back into a home where he can truly thrive.
We already know exactly what an incredible housemate Gatsby is thanks to a wonderful foster family who opened their doors to him for a month and a half. His foster parent reported that inside the house, Gatsby is an absolute dream—calm, quiet, and completely non-destructive, even when left to free-roam the home. He is the ultimate "Velcro dog" who lives for morning cuddle sessions right when he wakes up, loves a fun game of tug-of-war, and considers lounging on the couch or sleeping at the foot of your bed his favorite pastimes.
When it comes to outdoor adventures, Gatsby is a fantastic companion who walks beautifully on a loose leash most of the time. In the spirit of full transparency for his future family, our records show that back in July of 2025, Gatsby was involved in an undocumented incident where he nipped a person's leg while at large, though it did not break the skin. He also displays significant leash and barrier reactivity when he spots other animals, meaning he requires a handler who can confidently manage him in public spaces and keep him focused on walks.
Because of these behaviors, as well as several altercations during shelter playgroups, Gatsby is not suitable for a home with other animals. He is strictly looking to be the only pet in an environment where he can be the center of your universe. Gatsby has stolen the hearts of every volunteer and staff member who meets him, and it breaks our hearts to see him waiting. Please share Gatsby's story or reach out immediately to meet this special boy and give him the second chance he so deeply deserves.



Available for adoption ONLY through PACC.

Interested parties:
Must visit PACC before the COB Tuesday June 16th, 2026 deadline to meet with a counselor who will review notes and introduce you to the dog to ensure that it’s a good fit. Some dogs may also require an introduction to any dogs they may potentially live with.

Home Management Plan

Undocumented Bite History:
• Incident Details: no skin broken- at large ran up and bit a person on the leg

No Other Dogs:
• Gatsby is not suitable for a home with other dogs.
• Reason: has started multiple altercations within playgroup
• Management: They should be the only dog in the household. Avoid dog parks, group walks, or introductions to unfamiliar dogs to maintain safety and reduce stress.
• Behaviors could improve with proper management and/or professional training.

Prey Drive:
• Gatsby may display chasing behaviors or pull toward small animals such as cats, rabbits, or wildlife while on walks. A confident, strong handler is recommended for safe management.
• Prey drive can be instinctual, breed-related, or a learned behavior reinforced by past experiences.
• Training and Management: Use a secure martingale collar or properly fitted harness during walks. Avoid off-leash areas where small animals may be present.

In Shelter Decline:
• Gatsby has begun to decline behaviorally in the shelter environment due to ongoing stress or overstimulation. This may present as increased reactivity, withdrawal, or sensitivity towards other dogs, and in kennel
• Decompression Needed: Once in a home, they will need dedicated time and patience to decompress and re-adjust to life outside of the shelter.
• Initial Transition: It’s normal for dogs experiencing shelter stress to be overstimulated or unsettled for the first few days to weeks. Allow them to set the pace for interactions and provide structure, routine, and positive reinforcement to support their adjustment.

On Prozac:
• Gatsby is currently taking Prozac [Fluoxetine] for behavioral support.
• Do NOT stop or change this medication without consulting your personal veterinarian.
• MUST be tapered: Stopping abruptly may cause negative physical or behavioral side effects.

Data Updated: This information was refreshed 17 minutes ago.
Shelter information
Location: Pima Animal Care Center - Tucson
Address: 4000 North Silverbell Road
Tucson, AZ 85745

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