Rescue Tails / Hi all!

Getting to know a new dog is like reading a novel. It takes time and each day, like each page, reveals more of the story. Salem’s story with us was a long one. She was surrendered to us after being adopted 1.5 yrs. earlier from another shelter up north. From day one, she was frightened. This is not unusual for dogs when they first enter a shelter. But most dogs adapt to some degree and begin to come out of their shells. Not Salem! Unfortunately, she didn’t adjust. She behaved as though everyone and everything was out to get her and nowhere felt safe. Her entire body posture screamed “I am in fear for my life.” On top of that, she was heartworm positive. We hoped we could help her. She had a long road ahead if she was to ever find a home, but we could sense a sweetness underneath it all.

The work began. We had to build trust first before we put her through medical treatment, so we started with simple steps. We began by sliding hot dog pieces under the kennel door as we passed by, continuing to move without stopping, facing her, or making eye contact. She would only eat after we were gone. But over time, she began to move towards us as we approached. Eventually, we could make contact with her in her kennel, always ensuring she had enough space to retreat. Forcing a fearful animal out of its comfort zone is both risky and counterproductive. Allowing the animal to choose to approach or retreat is key to building trust. This became even more important as Salem began to venture outside. In the beginning, a piece of paper blowing across the parking lot would send her scrambling back to the shelter with us following behind. Seeing a stranger in the hallway would throw her into panic, and she would retreat to the safety and familiarity of her kennel. She regressed often but gradually worked up the courage to try again and eventually became braver. Her willingness to connect with staff grew and lap-sitting became a favorite. It felt like an honor when one’s lap was among the chosen. When Salem started showing her playful, silly side, we knew we had turned a corner. Time and patience are crucial when working with a fearful dog. But it can pay off. While we can never guarantee how much a fearful dog can grow, healing can happen. Salem was becoming a totally endearing dog!

Salem was successfully treated for heartworms and posted on our website. She had interest since she was a desirable size and very cute. However, because she still didn’t automatically trust new people, feel safe in new environments, and regressed easily, she was not a great fit for everyone. She needed a quiet home without a lot going on and someone who understood her needs and could be sensitive to them.

When Davina first stopped in, Salem had been with us for almost two years. Her visit turned the next page in Salem’s story. Sometimes the dogs tell us what they need too, and Salem told us everything! Davina was the person she wanted in her life, and it showed from the start and in subsequent visits. Davina’s lap was quickly among the chosen, and the silly play followed. Davina had no expectations and no agenda for Salem, the perfect making of a perfect home. She just wanted Salem to be happy and for their relationship to unfold naturally as trust was built.

It’s been a few months now, many pages later. It sounds like Salem spends her days hunting lizards, doing zoomies in her yard, and cuddling with Davina. Not a bad life for a dog once afraid of her own shadow! Congratulations, sweet girl. You and Davina are both very special ladies and we are so happy you found each other!

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