Bandit was rescued by Mill Creek resident Marla Nulph two years ago. Before Bandit, Marla had two dogs, but both unfortunately passed away. After three years without a pet, a friend contacted her with the promise of the “perfect dog.” The friend had rescued Bandit from an abusive situation. He was extremely malnourished and undersized, and there was evidence his back legs had been tied together, resulting in Bandit developing a gait similar to that of a rabbit’s.

When he was rescued, veterinarians were unsure of his breed. After a DNA test, Bandit was found to be 57% Chihuahua and 20% Shih Tzu, with small percentages of many other breeds—nine in total. Determining his age was also difficult, with estimates ranging from 18 months to almost three years. Regardless of his age, Marla describes Bandit as a “cuddle baby.”

Bandit loves walks and enjoys leisurely strolls through Mill Creek Town Center as well as along the paths at North Creek Park. His lap dog genetics shine through, as he constantly seeks affection whenever the opportunity arises. “He’s a really sweet boy, but only if he knows you,” laughed Marla. His name also has a story. A friend once commented that the markings on his face look like the mask a bandit would wear, and the name stuck.

Bandit’s energetic personality shows through in his play. One of his favorite activities is flipping his head so his toys soar through the air. He performs this ritual every morning and several times throughout the day. When a toy lands out of reach, he barks until someone retrieves it. He even recognizes his toys by name and will protest if given the wrong one. “He’s very opinionated,” Marla said. “He’ll bring a toy, drop it at my feet, and bark at me—that’s how I know what he wants.”

But Bandit also has a sensitive side. Marla says he seems to sense when someone is feeling down and will stay close to comfort them. After Marla had surgery, Bandit stayed glued to her side for three days as she recovered at home. “At times, I had to be careful not to step on him,” she said with a laugh. It’s clear Bandit loves his forever home. Over the past two years, he has transformed from a frail 3-lb dog who needed his hair shaved off into a healthy, vibrant bundle of love.